Victims’ Compensation Assistance Program

About the Program

The purpose of the Victims’ Compensation Assistance Program is to alleviate some of the financial burdens faced by victims, those that are directly related to the specific offense, by providing compensation for certain losses.

At the Delaware Department of Justice, we know that protecting and serving victims of crime is about more than investigation and prosecution – it is also about helping victims and their families along the road to recovery. The Victims’ Compensation Assistance Program (VCAP) can provide financial assistance to help cover the costs of a variety of services that help victims and their families begin to rebuild their lives, including lost wages, medical expenses, payment for mental health counseling, and funeral expenses. By awarding financial compensation for losses that victims sustain as a result of violent crime, VCAP can help alleviate the financial burden and distress that crime leaves behind.

The Victims’ Compensation Assistance Program serves as an important lifeline, reaching out to victims wherever they are located throughout all three Delaware counties. Applications are received by the office and reviewed by our staff. The Agency manages the program’s funds and awards compensation.

The Victims’ Compensation Assistance Program is not an insurance company. Funding for the program is generated by a surcharge on fines and penalties imposed by the Courts. No tax dollars are used to fund the program.

For more information, contact the Victims’ Compensation Assistance Program at (302) 255-1770  or VCAP@delaware.gov, or call the Delaware Helpline at 1-800-464-HELP.

FAQs

Who can get help?

The Delaware Victims’ Compensation Assistance Program provides compensation to victims of violent crimes and their families for crime related expenses. Compensation is available for payment of medical and dental expenses, mental health counseling, prescription medication, lost wages, funeral/burial support, temporary housing and moving or relocation services, crime related expenses and other costs approved by the Agency. VCAP only pays expenses that are not covered by another source of funding, such as health or auto insurance. Property losses are not covered.

Eligibility requirements are as follows:

• The crime must be reported to law enforcement within 72 hours.
• An application must be filed with VCAP within 1 year of the crime.
• Victims must cooperate with law enforcement agencies.
• Victims must cooperate with VCAP staff and provide all information requested.
• The victim must not have caused or contributed to his/her injury or death.

What Losses may be paid?

• Medical and/or dental expenses for the victim.
• Mental health treatment or counseling.
• Wage or income loss.
• Funeral and/or burial expenses.
• Crime scene clean-up.
• Moving/Relocation Expenses.
• Temporary Housing.
• Change of locks.
• Replace items seized as evidence.

Are there any limits?

• The Victims’ Compensation Assistance Program may only pay crime-related losses not covered by insurance or other sources.
• No award will exceed $25,000.00. Limits have been set for certain types of losses.
• All losses must be supported by documentation prior to compensation being awarded.
• You cannot be paid for lost, damaged, or stolen property, or for pain and suffering.
• A parent or guardian must apply for anyone under the age of 18. A personal representative should file on behalf of deceased victims or those unable to apply due to physical or mental limitations.