Apply for Crime Vic­tims’ Compensation

If you or your immediate family have financial costs because of a crime, the Crime Victims' Compensation (CVC) Program may be able to help. Learn how to apply.

Before You Apply

There are two types of compensation: (1) Crime Victims' Compensation and (2) Emergency Medical Care Compensation - Sexual Assault Exam. You can apply as a victim or a claimant for either compensation using the same application. You must be 18 years of age or older to apply to CVC. If the victim is under the age of 18 or deceased, an individual authorized to act on their behalf such as a parent or legal guardian must apply as a claimant.

Review Eligibility Requirements

Before starting your application, make sure you've read the eligibility requirements here. Only victims and claimants can receive compensation. There are certain requirements and guidelines for who can receive payments through CVC.

Review What Costs Are Covered

We may be able to reimburse you for your crime-related costs. Review what's covered by CVC here.

Application Process

Submit CVC Application

When you're ready, you can apply to CVC in several ways:

Registered victims and claimants will have access to:

• Submit supporting application documents
• View status of submitted applications
• View status of bills for approved applications

CVC web portal and its features are available for applications submitted online after July 12, 2018.

• Apply by mail:
  • Download a paper application - English (PDF), Spanish (PDF)
  • Call CVC at (800) 983-9933 to request an application

  Gather Your Information

  As your application is being processed, be prepared to provide information about the crime, injuries, crime-related costs, and resources available to pay for those costs — including medical insurance, vehicle insurance or settlements. Even if you do not have any documentation, apply now. You may contact our office later to provide additional information.

  Application Help

  For information or help applying, you may contact your:

  • Local law enforcement Crime Victim Liaison
  • Prosecutor's Victim Assistance Coordinator
  • Victim advocate such as a local family violence center or rape crisis center

  You can also get help from Crime Victims' Compensation staff at:

  Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. CT
  Toll Free: (800) 983-9933
  In Austin: (512) 936-1200
  

  How Applications Are Reviewed

  To verify a crime occurred and was reported to law enforcement, CVC requests an offense report. If necessary, CVC may contact you or other individuals with knowledge of the crime for more information.

  If approved, your assigned case manager identifies which of your costs are eligible for compensation.

  To verify your costs, the case manager may ask for:

  • More information from other sources such as a physician or employer
  • Proof of costs, such as bills, receipts, and other documents

  What If I Disagree with the Decision by the CVC Staff?

  You can appeal any decision made by CVC. Learn more about the Appeals Process.

  Crime Victims' Compensation Quick Links

  You can get help from CVC staff:
  Mon. – Fri., 8:00am - 5:00pm CT
  Toll Free: (800) 983-9933
  In Austin: (512) 936-1200