I was accused of theft 2 years ago

I was accused of theft 2 years ago while working at Dollar Tree, they said they’d investigate and never called me back in for work. They said I stole $80 from the register. I did not. I just got a check December last year. I haven’t cashed it out. I’m a bit confused. Is this compensation? Or does Dollar Tree send y’all checks like this? If it is compensation, I think it’s a bit unfair that it took 2 years to finally resolve. Whenever a background check was done on me, I’m sure whenever they called my former employers that was given as a reason for my dismissal. I’ve found it difficult to find a job since. Mind you I was 18 then, I’m 20 now.