Crime Victim Compensation Estimator
Estimated Potential Award
What Is Crime Victim Compensation?
Crime victim compensation programs are state-run funds that help victims pay for certain crime-related expenses. These programs do not replace a lawsuit. Instead, they provide financial assistance when other sources such as insurance or restitution do not fully cover the loss.
Most programs cover:
- Medical and dental expenses
- Lost wages or loss of financial support
- Mental health counseling
- Funeral and burial costs
- Relocation or security expenses
Each state sets limits, also called statutory caps, on how much compensation a person can receive.
What Is a Crime Victim Compensation Calculator?
A crime victim compensation calculator is an online tool that estimates your potential award based on:
- Your eligible expenses
- State program limits
- Maximum caps for certain categories
It does not guarantee payment. It simply provides an estimate based on the numbers you enter.
Think of it as a planning tool. It helps you prepare and set realistic expectations.
How the Calculator Works
The calculator you shared is structured around five main expense categories and three program levels. Here’s a breakdown.
1. Medical and Dental Expenses
This includes unreimbursed costs related to injuries caused by the crime.
Examples:
- Emergency room visits
- Surgery
- Medication
- Follow-up treatment
Only out-of-pocket costs are counted. If insurance paid part of the bill, only the unpaid amount should be entered.
2. Lost Wages or Support
If the victim could not work because of injuries or trauma, lost income may qualify.
This section includes:
- Missed paychecks
- Reduced work hours
- Loss of financial support for dependents
The calculator applies a maximum wage limit depending on the selected program level.
For example:
- Standard Program: Wage cap of $10,000
- Extended Program: Wage cap of $20,000
- Maximum Program: Wage cap of $30,000
If you enter more than the allowed amount, the calculator automatically reduces it to the program cap.
3. Mental Health Counseling
Many victims need therapy after a crime. Counseling expenses may include:
- Licensed therapist sessions
- Trauma counseling
- Psychological treatment
There is typically no separate category cap in this tool, but the total award is still subject to the overall program limit.
4. Funeral and Burial Expenses
In homicide cases, families may receive compensation for funeral costs.
The calculator limits funeral expenses based on the selected program:
- Standard: $5,000
- Extended: $7,500
- Maximum: $12,800
If funeral costs exceed the program limit, the tool adjusts the amount automatically.
5. Other Crime-Related Expenses
This category includes necessary costs such as:
- Temporary relocation
- Security system installation
- Crime scene cleanup
These must usually be directly related to the crime.
Program Jurisdiction and Maximum Caps
The calculator includes three program levels:
| Program Type | Total Cap | Funeral Cap | Wage Cap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | $25,000 | $5,000 | $10,000 |
| Extended | $50,000 | $7,500 | $20,000 |
| Maximum | $70,000 | $12,800 | $30,000 |
Here is how caps work:
- Individual categories like wages and funeral costs have limits.
- The total combined compensation cannot exceed the overall program cap.
If your total expenses go beyond the maximum allowed, the calculator will display a message explaining that the total has been capped.
Example Scenario
Let’s say someone enters:
- Medical: $18,000
- Lost wages: $15,000
- Counseling: $4,000
- Funeral: $0
- Other expenses: $3,000
If they select the Standard Program:
- Wage amount is reduced to $10,000 (cap applied).
- Total becomes $35,000.
- Since the Standard Program total cap is $25,000, the final estimate is reduced to $25,000.
The calculator will show:
“Total estimate is limited by the state's maximum program cap of $25,000.”
This helps users understand limits before filing paperwork.
Important Rules to Remember
The calculator includes an important disclaimer. Most crime victim compensation programs require:
- Expenses must not be covered by insurance, workers’ compensation, or restitution.
- Claims usually must be filed within 1 to 3 years after the incident.
- The crime must be reported to law enforcement.
- The victim must cooperate with the investigation.
Always check your specific state’s program guidelines.
Why This Calculator Is Helpful
A compensation estimator provides several benefits:
- It helps victims plan financially.
- It reduces confusion about state caps.
- It prepares applicants before filing paperwork.
- It sets realistic expectations.
After a traumatic event, clarity matters. A simple tool can reduce stress and provide direction.
What the Calculator Does Not Do
It’s important to understand limitations.
The calculator:
- Does not approve claims
- Does not replace legal advice
- Does not account for every state rule
- Does not guarantee payment
It offers an estimate based only on entered expenses and statutory caps.
Who Should Use a Crime Victim Compensation Calculator?
This tool is helpful for:
- Victims of violent crime
- Families of homicide victims
- Legal advocates
- Social workers
- Attorneys assisting clients
Anyone considering filing a compensation claim can use it to get a quick estimate.