Class Actions and Taxes

The simple answer is yes and no, and that’s because it depends on the specific case.  Typically, the settlement from a class action is divided amongst all the people in the class and therefore the checks distributed end up being a small amount. Once you accept the settlement you must remember to report the earnings to the IRS

It is then up to the IRS to determine what income is subject to income tax.  Generally, the IRS considers the reception of anything of value as taxable income.  Therefore if you received a settlement for a faulty washing machine, then, in theory, the earnings would be considered taxable.
However, Title 26, Section 104, of the United States Code allows people receiving compensation for personal physical injury or physical sickness to exclude those amounts from their gross income.  That means if that faulty washing machine caused you physical harm then the earnings might not be taxable.  Since this question is not as simple as yes or no, we suggest you always consult with an accountant