Crime Victim Compensation Program
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.
How the Program Works
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.
CVC differs from restitution: Victim compensation is paid from criminal justice-collected funds, while 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 authorized to act on behalf of the victim
- Witnesses to certain crimes
Eligibility Requirements
- 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 crime occurred after July 1, 1982.
- If available, health and homeowner's insurance must be used first.
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.
Losses That May Be Eligible for Assistance
- Medical Expenses
- Mental Health Expenses
- Lost Wages
- Loss of Support to Dependents
- Residential Property Damage — Exterior Windows
- Residential Locks and Doors
- Funeral Expenses
Getting Started
To be considered for assistance:
- Complete and submit a signed application (available below)
- Submit documentation for every expense claimed
- Submit bills to insurance or other payment sources (Medicaid, Medicare, Worker's Compensation, etc.) before the CVC Board considers payment
Applications & Documents
Download the following forms:
Additional resources: Copy of Crime Victim Compensation Board meetings and rules for participation