A federal court has granted preliminary approval to a class action settlement involving the Providence Health & Services 401(k) Savings Plan and the Swedish Health Services 401(k) Plan. This lawsuit, titled Halter v. Providence Health & Services, alleges violations of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974. If you were a participant or beneficiary of these plans between January 1, 2018, and June 4, 2026, you are likely part of the settlement class.
The total gross settlement amount is approximately $42.7 million. This covers three distinct areas of relief. First, the plan will distribute assets currently held in forfeiture and special unallocated accounts to class members. Second, the defendants have agreed to cover plan recordkeeping and administrative expenses for 2026, 2027, and 2028, which is valued at roughly $15.3 million. Third, a portion of the fund will go toward legal fees, settlement administration, and a service award for the class representative, with any remaining balance distributed back to class members.
You do not need to submit a claim form to receive your share of these funds. Distributions will be automatic for eligible members if the court grants final approval. The settlement administrator will handle the calculations, and payments will be deposited directly into plan accounts. The court expects to reach a final decision on these terms following a fairness hearing scheduled for October 20, 2026, at the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington.
Legal rights are affected by this agreement, and class members cannot opt out of the class under the current federal rules. If you disagree with the terms of the settlement, you may file a formal objection with the court by October 6, 2026. For additional details, including copies of the settlement agreement and updates on the hearing date, please visit the official settlement website.