Aug 14 (Reuters) - Amazon ( AMZN ) on Friday reinstated

binding arbitration for its U.S. customers while also barring

them from seeking class-action lawsuits, making it more

difficult for users to address grievances in court.

In emails on Friday, Amazon ( AMZN ) said the changes are effective

immediately and customers agree to the terms by continuing to

use the company's services. Often, companies alert customers to

upcoming changes to their terms of service weeks in advance.

Previously, Amazon ( AMZN ) said customers should pursue legal claims

in court in Washington state, where Amazon ( AMZN ) is based. Five years

ago, Amazon ( AMZN ) revoked binding arbitration after facing tens of

thousands of costly individual cases.

"We determined that reinstating the arbitration clause will

offer customers a fast, cost-effective way to resolve disputes

while still giving them the option of going to small claims

court," a spokesperson said in a statement.