Victim Compensation

The Crime Victim Compensation (CVC) program can provide financial assistance for certain crimes and specified services. Not all crime victims or crime-related losses are eligible for reimbursement or payment. To request an application or if you have questions, contact the CVC program staff at 720-913-9253 or victimcomp@denverda.org.

Crime Victim Compensation funds are collected through fines assessed on adults and juveniles who are convicted of certain crimes in the City and County of Denver. A three-person citizen Board appointed by the Denver District Attorney distributes the funds as allowed by statute and Board policy.

Crime Victim Compensation differs from restitution in that victim compensation is paid from criminal justice-collected funds and restitution is paid by the offender. If a victim receives compensation funds, they cannot claim those same expenses through restitution, and vice versa.

Who Qualifies:

● Victims of violent crime.
● Families and dependents of deceased victims.
● Persons who are authorized to act on behalf of the victim.
● Witnesses to certain crimes.

Eligibility requirements

  • The crime was reported to the Denver Police Department within 72 hours of the crime.
  • The victim must cooperate fully with law enforcement in the investigation. apprehension, and prosecution of the perpetrator. There does not need to be an arrest or conviction to receive compensation.
  • The injury or death of the victim was not the result of the victim’s own wrongdoing.
  • The application for compensation must be submitted within one year of the crime; or six months for property damage claims.
  • The crime occurred after July 1, 1982.
  • If available, health and homeowner’s insurance must be used first.

Losses that may be eligible for assistance related to a qualifying crime:

  • Medical Expenses
  • Mental Health Expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Loss of support to dependents
  • Residential Property Damage to Exterior Windows
  • Residential Locks and Doors

Funeral Expenses

Getting Started:

  • To be considered for assistance, a victim must complete and submit a signed application. The application is available below.
  • Documentation is required for every expense submitted.
  • Bills must be submitted to insurance or other sources of payment such as Medicaid, Medicare, or Worker’s Compensation before the Crime Victim Compensation Board can consider payment.

The Crime Victim Compensation Board may waive some of the above requirements for good cause or in the interest of justice.  No other person or agency can guarantee eligibility.

Victim Compensation Application (English)

Victim Compensation Application (Spanish)

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Mental Health Request for Extension of Therapy

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