violent crimes compensation
what is it?
The Indiana Victim Compensation Program, created in 1978, serves as a last-resort financial resource for innocent victims injured by violent crimes. In cases involving death, dependent family members may also qualify for assistance. Eligible victims and claimants may receive compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other unexpected expenses resulting from the crime.
The Violent Crimes Victims Compensation Fund can provide up to $15,000 for expenses related to injury or death, with medical costs covered if incurred within two years. An additional $5,000 is available for funeral and burial expenses. The fund acts as a payer of last resort, meaning it covers expenses not reimbursed by other sources. You remain responsible for your bills, and service providers can still pursue collections. If approved, you'll be reimbursed for eligible out-of-pocket costs.
who is eligible?
- Innocent victims of a violent crime (Indiana Code defines a violent crime as a felony or class A misdemeanor that results in bodily injury or death to the victim) - A surviving parent, spouse, dependent, child or other legal dependent of an innocent victim who has been killed as a result of any violent crime - A person who was injured or killed trying to prevent a violent crime or giving aid to a law enforcement officer - Family members of victims who have paid a portion of funeral or burial costs and children who were eyewitnesses to the crime but were not physically injured are eligible for compensation.
additional eligibility requirements
- The crime must have taken place in Indiana - The crime must have resulted in bodily injury or death - The victim must have incurred a minimum of $100 in out of pocket expenses - The crime must have occurred within the past 2 years - The crime must have been reported to the police within 72 hours (Exception: victims of sexual assault who have had a forensic exam conducted DO NOT have to report the crime to law enforcement​) -The victim or survivors must have been cooperative in the investigation and prosecution of the crime (Exception: victims of sexual assault who have had a forensic exam conducted are eligible for compensation whether or not they choose to involve the police)
eligible
expenses
noneligible
expenses
- Medical bills
- Out of patient services
- Mental health counseling
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Lost wages
- Loss of support for legal dependents of a crime victim who was killed
- Limited attorneys fees related to successful appeal
-Crime scene clean-up/ replacing window/door locks
- Property damage (other than windows or door locks) and replacement of property or cash
- Moving, relocation, or daily living expenses
- Rent, utilities, food, travel
- Burial clothing or funeral flowers
- Pain and suffering
- Out of pocket expenses without proof of payment
- Medical expenses incurred for treatment of injuries that are not a direct result of the crime​