Specialized Government programs for the relief of crime victims have become increasingly popular in recent years, and plans have been adopted in many common law jurisdictions throughout the world. Despite their common concerns and similar background, the programs vary both in pretentions toward and effectiveness in meeting victims' needs. Variations in the scope of benefits and limitations on awards that affect the programs are detailed. Generally, programs serve only as a remedy of last resort to provide reimbursement of certain direct financial costs to certain victims of particular crimes. In the typical program, the person directly injured is entitled to reimbursement for reasonable hospital and medical expenses and a limited award for income lost because of injuries sustained. If the victim dies, his dependents are entitled to limited awards for funeral and burial expenses and for lost support. Usually the victim receives no award for loss of or damage to property, for injuries received through violations of traffic laws, or for pain and suffering. Most programs also place limitations on awards, and in some jurisdictions applicants must demonstrate serious financial hardship as a prerequisite to receiving benefits. The victim deemed partially responsible for the crime receives at most a reduced award, and the victim injured by a close relative usually receives nothing. As a result of these limitations on benefits, the vast majority of crime victims are not covered by the programs. Notes and suggested readings are included. (Author abstract modified)