Victims Compensation Assistance Program

Find out if you’re eligible.

The Pennsylvania Crime Victims Compensation Assistance Program (VCAP) helps victims and their families through the emotional and physical aftermath of a crime by easing the financial impact placed upon them by the crime.  Victims Resource Center can help you file for VCAP and can answer questions about eligibility.

 

Types of expenses that may be covered:

  • Out of pocket medical expenses
  • Loss of earnings
  • Loss of support
  • Funeral expenses
  • Crime scene clean up
  • Relocation expenses
  • Money stolen or defrauded from individuals on a fixed income, such as social security or pension.

 

For more information or for help in filing a VCAP claim, call VRC at 570-823-0765.  All services are confidential and at no cost.

You may be eligible if…

  • The crime occurred in Pennsylvania.
  • The crime was reported to law enforcement within 72 hours
  • OR A Protection from Abuse Order (PFA) was filed

How long do I have to file?

The claim must be filed, in most cases, within two years of the date of the crime. There are also exceptions when the victim is a child.

Is anyone other than the victim eligible?

The claim must be filed, in most cases, within two years of the date of the crime. There are also exceptions when the victim is a child.

Which types of expenses may be covered?

  • Medical expenses
  • Forensic Rape Exams
  • Loss of earnings
  • Loss of support
  • Funeral expenses
  • Crime-scene Cleanup
  • Replacement of personal health items stolen/damaged
  • Transportation expenses
  • Relocation expenses
  • Counseling expenses
  • Money stolen or defrauded from individuals on a fixed income, such as Social Security or a pension. For victims less than 60 years old you must have a minimum loss of at least $100 incurred because of the crime. Victims over 60 do not have to meet this criterion.

VCAP is the payer of last resort. If victims has other sources to pay for the losses they have incurred they must utilize these resources first.

VCAP is able to reimburse insurance co-pays, out of network expenses and out of pocket costs incurred as a result of the crime.

VCAP does not reimburse victims for pain and suffering or for stolen/damaged property.

Must someone be arrested or convicted before I may apply?

No, but you must cooperate with the law enforcement authorities who are handling your case. However, you must not be involved in illegal activity that caused or contributed to the crime.

Is there a limit on total compensation?

Yes. There are different limits for the various types of expenses covered by the program. The overall maximum reward is $35,000.

Where can I obtain a claim form?

You may request a claim form by calling 1-800-233-2339 or through your local police department, county district attorney’s office, or local victim service programs. Claim forms in .pdf are also available for download by clicking here or you can complete a claim form on-line by visiting the VCAP website.

Need Help Filing Your VCAP?

Unsure of how to navigate the VCAP filing process? We can assist you with properly completing the necessary paperwork to file a claim.

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