Chipotle Mexican Grill has agreed to pay $246,000 to settle a consumer protection lawsuit alleging that it wouldn't allow California customers to cash out gift cards with a balance of under $10, authorities announced Thursday.

The restaurant chain -- which has more than 500 locations in California and denied any wrongdoing -- will pay $145,467 in civil penalties, $88,533 for investigative costs and $12,000 restitution to the California

Consumer Protection Prosecution Trust Fund, with just over $56,000 going to the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office, authorities said.

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The settlement also requires the company to create and maintain a website portal, initially accessible at chipotle.com/gift-card-cashback,

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