Who Is Eligible for Crime Victims’ Compensation Benefits?

Crime Victims’ Compensation is a reimbursement program that provides for available statutory benefits to injured victims of crime and their families who have no other means of paying for expenses incurred as a result of the crime.

The Crime Victims’ Compensation Fund is a federal and state program funded through fines paid by convicted criminals. It is administrated through the Attorney General’s Office of the State of Texas with support from local law enforcement agencies and the District Attorney’s Office.

Eligibility

To be eligible for compensation, an applicant must meet certain guidelines established by statue and administrative rule. The three primary requirements for eligibility are:

• The crime must be one in which the victim suffered personal injury, physical or emotional harm, or death as a result of the criminal offense.
• Applicants must meet residency requirements.
• Applicants must file for Crime Victims’ Compensation in a timely manner.

In addition, applicants must report the crime to a law enforcement agency. Victims and claimants must also cooperate with authorities in the investigation and prosecution of the case.

In order to apply for Victims’ Compensation or learn more about the program ask staff while at the Children’s Advocacy Center, and contact information will be provided and assistance in completion of the application will be provided while at the Center.

Who may apply:

• An innocent victim of crime who suffers physical and/or emotional harm or death.
• An authorized individual acting on the behalf of a victim.
• A person who legally assumes the obligation or voluntarily pays certain expenses relating to the crime on behalf of the victim.
• A dependant of a victim who died as a result of the crime.
• An immediate family or household member of a victim who requires psychiatric care or counseling as a result of the crime.
• An intervener who goes to the aid of a victim or a peace officer
• A peace officer, fire fighter or individual whose employment includes the duty of protecting the public.

The Center's Victim Services Program will assist you in applying for and obtaining benefits from Crime Victims' Compensation.