WHO IS ELIGIBLE?
Victims of violent crime occurring in Massachusetts
Dependents and family members of homicide victims
Any person responsible for the funeral expenses of a homicide victim
Victims of Violent Crimes Compensation Application
What are the requirements?
The crime must have been reported to police within five days unless there is good cause for delay.
- You must cooperate with law enforcement officials in the investigation and prosecution of the crime unless there is a reasonable excuse not to cooperate.
- You must apply for compensation within three years of the crime. Victims under the age of 18 at the time of the crime may apply until age 21, or later in certain limited circumstances.
- Your out-of-pocket expenses must exceed $100.00, unless you are over the age of 60 or a victim of rape.
What expenses are covered?
To the extent insurance or other funds do not cover your expenses, you may be reimbursed for:
- Medical and dental expenses (including equipment, supplies and medications)
- Counseling expenses (for victims, for family members of homicide victims, and for children who witness violence against a family member)
- Funeral/burial costs up to $4,000
- Lost wages (for victims only)
- Loss of financial support (for dependents of homicide victims)
- Homemaker expenses
Expenses not covered: property losses, compensation for pain and suffering, and all other losses
How do I apply?
Complete the Application for Crime Victim Compensation and return it to the advocate assigned to your case. The advocate will attach all necessary reports to the application, and file it properly with the Office of the Attorney General.
- The Victim Compensation and Assistance Division of the Attorney General’s Office will verify that they have received your application.
- Generally, it takes approximately 4 to 6 months to receive a decision.
- Your claim can be reopened for future expenses.