The Victim of Crime Compensation Program provides financial reimbursement to people who are victims and witnesses of crime in California.

Who is Eligible?

• Children who are the "Primary Victim" of a crime.
• Children or siblings of a Primary Victim may be eligible as a "Derivative Victim."
• Children who were living with a "Primary Victim" may be eligible.
• Witnesses to crime may be eligible.

(A "Primary Victim" had the crime committed to them. A "Derivative Victim" suffered a loss because the Primary Victim was injured.)

Eligibility Requirements

• The Crime must have occurred in California OR
• The victim must have been a resident of California at the time of the crime.
• Derivative victims must have been residents of California at the time of the crime.
• The crime must have been reported to a law enforcement agency.
• The victim must cooperate with law enforcement and Victim Witness Assistance.
• Legal guardians must apply for benefits for children.

What is covered?

• Loss due to physical or emotional injury as a result of a crime.
• Medical costs
• Dental costs
• Mental health counseling
• Loss due to availability as a witness.
• Lost income

What do I have to do first?

• Victim/Witness will pay for services AFTER all other available programs are used.
• Private Insurance must be used first.
• Medi-Cal must be used first.
• AAP must be used first, if available.
• Civil Judgements must be used first.

How do I apply?

Each county has a program. Contact your local Victim/Witness program or your District Attorney's office. (See listing below.)
California Penal Code sec. 13835