Crime Victim's Compensation
What is Crime Victims’ Compensation?
Crime Victims’ Compensation (CVC) is a financial assistance program that helps eligible victims of crime with certain expenses related to the crime. Money for this program comes from court costs paid by criminals and deposited by each Texas County in the Crime Victims’ Compensation Fund.
Crime Victims’ Compensation is the “payer of last resort” meaning that they pay the remaining expense after insurance, Medicare, etc. have been exhausted.
Who is Eligible for Crime Victims’ Compensation?
- You must be a U.S. resident with the crime occurring in Texas— You do not need to be a U.S. citizen
- You must file a police report and cooperate with law enforcement or have a Protective Order with a finding of Family Violence
- The application must be completed within 3 years of the date of the crime
How do I apply?
You can easily complete the CVC application online at https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/crime-victims/crime-victims-compensation-program/apply-crime-victims-compensation.
If you are confused by the application or want assistance Denton County Friends of the Family or a similar advocacy agency can assist you in completing an application. A victim's advocate at most law enforcement agencies and prosecutor’s offices in Texas can also assist you in completing the application.
What Type of Financial Assistance is Available?
Claims may be approved for benefits up to a total of $50,000 and awarded for the following:
- Medical, hospital, physical therapy, or nursing care
- Psychiatric care or counseling
- One-time relocation assistance for victims of family violence or sexual assault
- Loss of earnings or support
- Costs related to participation in or attendance at the investigation, prosecutorial and judicial processes
- Care of a child or dependent
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Crime scene clean-up
- Replacement costs for property taken as evidence
- Loss of wages and travel to seek medical treatment or counseling
- And other approved benefits