Crime Victims’ Compensation: A Practical Guide for Survivors and Service Providers

If you were a victim of a crime or are a family member of a crime victim, you may qualify for CVC. Eligibility factors vary significantly by state but are generally based on what, when, and where the crime occurred, if the crime resulted in a direct or indirect injury (physical, emotional, financial) to you, and your actions during and following the crime (e.g., whether you reported the crime to law enforcement or contributed to the crime). Importantly, many states have created exceptions or accommodations for trafficking survivors and other crime victims who may have typically been disqualified, including for failing to report to law enforcement or participate in the criminal justice process.

Do not assume you are ineligible. Application deadlines vary by state, and many programs allow exceptions or extensions for crime victims who experienced human trafficking, were under 18 years of age when the crime occurred, or faced barriers to reporting or applying, such as not recognizing or understanding their own victimization or safety concerns about reporting the crime to law enforcement.

In many states, you may be eligible for compensation even if the offender was never involved in the criminal justice system for the underlying offense. CVC programs focus on whether a qualifying crime occurred rather than whether a criminal offender, including a trafficker, was investigated, arrested, charged, or convicted. You may still need to provide documentation supporting your victimization, but compensation is often available even when no criminal case exists.

Not necessarily. Most states require some form of reporting to law enforcement; however, many have eliminated this requirement for certain crime victims, including human trafficking survivors. Some states accept reports made to victim advocates, mental health providers, or professionals other than law enforcement, and others provide exceptions for victims who can demonstrate good reasons for not reporting (e.g., safety concerns, coercion, trauma, or fear of retaliation).

Not necessarily. Some states consider criminal history when determining eligibility, including preventing individuals with felony records from receiving an award. However, many have eliminated such restrictions and do not factor in previous arrests, convictions, or even pending criminal or civil cases in making a determination. This is important as trafficking survivors often have criminal records due to their exploitation. Some states provide specific exceptions or other considerations to certain crime victims, including trafficking survivors.

Do not assume you are ineligible. Documentation requirements vary by state, and some CVC programs accept alternative forms of documentation. If you are missing requested or required records, contact your state’s CVC administration office before deciding that you cannot meet the documentation requirements.