The Crime Victims’ Compensation (CVC) Program can help cover your expenses after a crime, including medical bills, counseling, and lost wages. We're here to support you through this process.
About The Program
The CVC program is funded by fees from offenders, not tax dollars. The program focuses on two main goals:
- Reimbursing victims for some of the costs caused by violent crime.
- Encouraging victims to participate in the legal process and assist in the prosecution of offenders.
How The Program Works
Understanding how this program works can help you feel more prepared for the process. The steps below are designed to guide you, but it’s important to know that the order may change based on your situation and might take some time. You may need to revisit certain steps or wait for more information along the way.
Here’s a breakdown of the key steps to help you know what to expect from the CVC Program.
Step 1: Apply for the Program
You can apply online or by mail, whichever works best for you. Applying online through the CVC portal is the fastest option—you can upload documents, check your status, and track approved bills anytime. If you prefer to apply by mail, you can download the application or request one by phone. Once you submit your application, the program will review it and let you know next steps.
Step 2: Eligibility Verification
We'll request the official police report from law enforcement and review your submitted application. We confirm that a crime happened and that it was reported to law enforcement.
Special rules apply for sexual assault Emergency Medical Care: reporting to law enforcement is not required.
Step 3: Claim Crime-Related Costs
If your application is approved, we’ll ask for details about the costs from the crime and review them to see what we can help cover based on the program’s rules.
The CVC program can help cover costs up to $50,000, with an extra $25,000 for sexual assault EMC reimbursement. The amount you qualify for depends on the laws in place when the crime happened, and some costs may not be covered. Since this program is meant to pay only as a last option, other resources need to pay first before we can step in.
Step 4: Payment Process
Once approved, we can pay you back for costs you’ve already covered. For some services, we can pay the provider directly before you pay anything.
We process claims as quickly as possible and will keep you updated on your status.
Step 5: Appeal Denied Eligibility or Expenses
If you don’t agree with a decision on your application, you have the right to appeal. You can challenge any part of a negative decision — like the original application decision, whether a cost is covered, or the amount of compensation.
Questions?
If you have any questions or need help, don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to support you during this challenging time.
You can contact us online
or
You can reach us by phone:
Mon. – Fri., 8:00am - 5:00pm CT
Toll Free: (800) 983-9933
In Austin: (512) 936-1200