FTC Action Against LifeWave Promoters: Income Claims Under the Microscope
The LifeWave FTC case centers on two senior participants, Steven and Gina Merritt, whom the FTC alleged used inflated earnings claims to recruit people. The case settled on April 27, 2026 without a trial. These are allegations, not findings of fact.
Key facts
- Defendants: Steven and Gina Merritt, LifeWave Brand Partners
- Filed/settled: April 27, 2026
- Alleged claims: e.g., $25,000 per week
- Outcome: stipulated order restricting future income claims; downline notice
What the FTC Alleged
The FTC alleged the Merritts claimed participants could earn substantial income, while LifeWave’s own 2024 disclosure showed 79% of active participants earned no commissions. See also is LifeWave a pyramid scheme.
LifeWave Brand Partners and Income Claims
The complaint says disclaimers were small or obscured in videos. Read how disclosures work in our income disclosure guide.
The Settlement
The order permanently restrains the Merritts from deceptive earnings claims and requires notice to their downline. It is part of a broader FTC push; see MLM regulations and the FTC.
What It Means for Distributors
Any promoter should be able to substantiate earnings claims with typical results. See our network marketing news hub and LifeWave review.
Key Takeaways
- The case targeted individuals, not the company.
- It settled without trial.
- Income claims need substantiation.
- Allegations are not findings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did the FTC sue LifeWave?
The April 2026 action was against Steven and Gina Merritt, high-level participants.
What did they allege?
Deceptive earnings claims such as $25,000 per week.
How did it end?
A stipulated order restricting future claims and requiring downline notice.
Does this affect other distributors?
It signals the FTC’s focus on income claims.
Sources
QastMe does not endorse any company. Information is for education only and is not financial or legal advice. Earnings in direct selling vary widely, and most participants earn little or no money. Review each company’s income disclosure statement before deciding.
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