SEARCH QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

What is victim compensation? All states and territories receive Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) funds through the Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) to establish compensation programs for crime victims. Although each state compensation program is administered independently, most programs have similar eligibility requirements and offer comparable benefits. Compensation is paid only when other financial resources, such as private insurance and offender restitution, do not cover the loss. Some expenses are not covered by most compensation programs, including theft, damage, and property loss. State compensation programs are not required to compensate victims in terrorism cases. More information on OVC guidelines for victim compensation is available in the Victims of Crime Act Victim Compensation Program Guidelines. For additional information, please contact your State Victim Compensation Program and visit the National Association of Crime Victim Compensation Boards website. Last Updated: February 6, 2018

Ask Another Question Email Your Question