CRIME VICTIM COMPENSATION
Financial help may be available.
Florida’s Crime Victim Compensation Program may help eligible victims with certain expenses related to a crime.
SAAP can help you understand the application process, gather information, and navigate next steps.
Not sure if you qualify?
You do not have to figure it out alone.
We can help you review the process and available resources. 1-866-828-7273WHAT IS CRIME VICTIM COMPENSATION?
It is a Florida program designed to help with certain crime related expenses.
The Florida Office of the Attorney General’s Bureau of Victim Compensation provides financial assistance to eligible victims and applicants.
Compensation is not automatic and not every expense is covered. Eligibility and benefit decisions are made by the Bureau of Victim Compensation.
We can help with the process.
SAAP can help explain the application, identify documents you may need, help with referrals, and assist with follow up questions.
SAAP does not determine whether a claim is approved.
BASIC ELIGIBILITY
There are several requirements to consider.
Additional requirements, exceptions, and documentation may apply depending on the type of claim.
Report the Crime
The crime generally must be reported to law enforcement or another proper authority within 120 hours.
Good cause may be considered for delayed reporting.File the Application
The Bureau generally must receive the application within 3 years after the crime.
Filing within 5 years may be considered when good cause for delay is shown.Cooperate With the Process
Applicants generally must cooperate with law enforcement, the State Attorney’s Office, and the Attorney General’s Office.
Provide Documentation
You may need proof of the crime, bills, receipts, wage information, treatment documentation, or other records.
Reporting
Crimes generally must be reported to the proper authority within 120 hours.
Standard Filing Window
Applications generally must be received within 3 years after the crime.
With Good Cause
Filing may be considered within 5 years when good cause for the delay is shown.
WHAT MAY BE COVERED?
Compensation can apply to different types of loss.
Coverage depends on eligibility, documentation, applicable limits, and the type of claim.
Medical Expenses
Certain crime related medical treatment may qualify for assistance.
Dental Expenses
Certain dental treatment related to crime caused injuries may qualify.
Mental Health Counseling
Eligible mental health treatment may be covered depending on the claim.
Wage Loss
Compensation may be available when crime related physical injuries cause a victim to miss work.
Disability
Benefits may be available when a crime results in qualifying permanent disability.
Loss of Support
Dependents of a deceased victim may qualify for loss of support benefits.
Funeral + Burial
Funeral and burial expenses may be covered in qualifying cases involving a death.
Emergency Reimbursement
Certain out of pocket compensable expenses may qualify for reimbursement.
SEXUAL BATTERY RELOCATION
Relocation assistance may be available when safety is a concern.
Florida offers a specific relocation benefit for qualifying sexual battery survivors who need to relocate because of a reasonable fear for their safety.
This claim requires certification through a certified rape crisis center in Florida.
SAAP can help determine whether this option may apply and assist with the required certification process.
Contact SAAP before completing a relocation claim on your own.
The relocation claim requires a Relocation Certification Worksheet completed through a certified rape crisis center.
Call 1-866-828-7273WHAT SHOULD I GATHER?
Having documents ready can help prevent delays.
The exact documents depend on the benefit you are requesting.
Completed and signed claim application
Acceptable proof that the crime occurred
Itemized bills or receipts
Insurance Explanation of Benefits when applicable
Employer documentation for wage loss claims
Treatment documentation when required
OTHER PAYMENT SOURCES
Crime Victim Compensation is generally a payer of last resort.
The Bureau may consider other sources of payment before compensation benefits are paid.
You may be asked for information about insurance, restitution, settlements, judgments, or other sources that could pay an expense.
RESTITUTION VS. COMPENSATION
They are not the same thing.
A state administered program
The Florida Bureau of Victim Compensation reviews applications and determines eligibility for qualifying benefits.
Part of the criminal court process
Restitution may be ordered by the court and paid by the offender for qualifying losses.
IF THE VICTIM IS A MINOR
Different filing rules or exceptions may apply.
Florida’s current application specifically notes that exceptions apply to victims who are minors and that different filing time requirements may apply.
A parent, guardian, or lawful representative may assist with the application depending on the circumstances.
Contact SAAP if you are unsure which timeline or application requirements apply.
HOW SAAP CAN HELP
You do not have to navigate the paperwork by yourself.
We can help you understand what information is being requested and what steps may come next.
FLORIDA BUREAU OF VICTIM COMPENSATION
The Bureau makes the final eligibility decision.
Claim approval, benefit amounts, payment decisions, and requests for additional documentation are handled by the Florida Bureau of Victim Compensation.
1-800-226-6667
Office of the Attorney General Bureau of Victim Compensation
Visit Florida Victim Compensation ↗DON’T ASSUME YOU ARE INELIGIBLE
Missed a deadline or unsure whether you meet a requirement?
Florida’s rules include exceptions and good cause provisions in some circumstances.
Contact SAAP or the Bureau of Victim Compensation before deciding not to apply.
EXPLORE YOUR OPTIONS
What would be helpful next?
NEED HELP WITH COMPENSATION?
Start with us.
We can help explain the process, identify what documents may be needed, and support you as you navigate the application.
