VICTIMS COMPENSATION ASSISTANCE
CVC assists clients in applying for financial compensation through the Victims Compensation Assistance Program (VCAP). VCAP, administered by the Commonwealth through Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD), can help victims and their families with reimbursement for some expenses resulting from victimization, when eligible.
In order to be eligible for VCAP:
- the crime committee qualifies for assistance under the program
- the crime must be reported to Law Enforcement or have a PFA filed
- the crime must have occurred in Pennsylvania
- the victim must cooperate with the Courts, Police and VCAP
- the victim must be a payer of last resort – there are no other resources for payment such as insurance or restitution
- the victim must have a minimum loss of $50
- the claim must be filed within five years of the discovery or occurrence of the crime
Types of expenses that may be covered include:
- medical expenses
- counseling expenses
- loss of earnings
- mileage
- funeral costs
- relocation expenses
- crime scene clean-up
VCAP does not reimburse for pain and suffering or property damage or loss.
For more detailed information, to request an application, or for assistance in filing a claim with the Victims Compensation Assistance Program, please call CVC’s Crime Victim Resource Advocate at (610) 692-1926 or you can reach VCAP directly at (800) 233-2339.
RESTITUTION ASSISTANCE
Restitution is court-ordered reimbursement by the defendant(s) made payable to victims and their families for losses related to a crime. A defendant must be prosecuted and convicted before restitution can be ordered.
Restitution may cover:
- property loss/damage
- medical/counseling expenses
- reimbursement to insurance companies
Restitution does not cover:
- loss of earnings
- mileage
- pain and suffering
For further information, assistance with a restitution claim, or questions/concerns about previously ordered restitution in Chester County, please call CVC’s Crime Victim Resource Advocate at (610) 692-1926.