Reasonable documentation
Reasonable documentation is the proof a settlement asks for, such as receipts or statements, that a typical person could actually provide.
Also called: reasonable proof, supporting documentation, adequate documentation
Reasonable documentation is the proof a settlement asks for, such as receipts or statements, that a typical person could actually provide.
What it means
Reasonable documentation is a common standard for proof in class action settlements. It means records that fairly show your claim is true, such as receipts, invoices, order confirmations, bank or card statements, or account records. It does not mean perfect or official paperwork.
The phrase leaves the administrator some judgment. It will usually check that your document shows the right product or charge, the right dates and the amount you claimed, and that it is connected to you. A blurry photo, a record with the wrong date or a summary you wrote yourself may not be enough.
Courts watch the balance. The notes to the federal class action rule say a claims process should deter unjustified claims without being unduly demanding. A Federal Judicial Center checklist tells judges to ask whether class members would realistically still have the proof being requested.
What it means for you
If a notice asks for reasonable documentation, read its examples and send more than the minimum. Make sure the record shows the date, amount, merchant or product, and your name or account. You can black out unrelated purchases and full account numbers, as long as the key details stay visible. If a document is missing, say why and offer another, such as a bank statement. If the administrator says your proof is not enough, you can usually fix it by the date in the notice.
Example
Say a settlement asks for reasonable documentation of a $60 charge. Your receipt is gone, but your card statement shows the merchant name, the date and the $60 amount. You black out other transactions and upload it. That is likely enough because it shows the charge, the date and the amount. A handwritten note with nothing to back it up may not be.
FAQ
Records that show the key facts of your claim, usually the product or service, the date and the amount. Receipts, order emails, account history and card or bank statements are common. The claim form lists what the settlement accepts.
Look for other records, such as an order email, an online account history or a card statement. If the settlement offers a no-proof option, you may be able to claim a smaller amount by stating that you qualify. Otherwise, ask the administrator what else it will accept.
Related terms
- Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 23 and committee notes (Cornell LII)
- Federal Judicial Center, Judges' Class Action Notice and Claims Process Checklist and Plain Language Guide (2010)
- FTC staff report, Consumers and Class Actions: A Retrospective and Analysis of Settlement Campaigns (September 2019)
Updated Oct 18, 2026. Plain-English definitions for general information — not legal or tax advice.