Victims Compensation eases the financial burden faced by victims of violent crimes by covering expenses related to medical bills, funeral expenses, mental health counseling and crime scene sanitization, as well as loss of income or support. In the state of Georgia, victims can apply to the Crime Victims Compensation (Victims Comp) program, which is a program of the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council.

Apply for Victims Compensation

1. Find out if you are Eligible

   • Citizenship is not a program requirement for applying. However, there are eligibility and other requirements to qualify to apply for victims compensation. The CJCC Victim Comp website is the best resource to find out more and take a short quiz to help determine if you qualify.

2. Learn what Victims Compensation Covers

   • Once you determine if you qualify, learn what Victims Compensation covers and what it does not cover. For example, expenses related to suicide or property crimes only are not covered. This information is available on the CJCC Victim Comp website – Our Programs.

3. Apply

   • Follow the first two steps to expedite the processing of your claim:

     • Click here to download the application.

   • Gather and prepare to submit your Complete Application Packet. A Complete Application Packet includes:

     • A completed application with legible signatures where required.

     • A copy of the police/incident report from the proper investigative agency that lists the victim or witness’ name and a summary of the incident.

     • PLEASE NOTE: A statement verifying serious mental or emotional trauma for SMET (Serious Mental & Emotional Trauma) claims, must be completed by a licensed mental health professional (click for the form).

     • Mail a Complete Application Packet to Georgia Crime Victims Compensation at:

       • 104 Marietta Street NW, Suite 440 Atlanta, GA 30303.

     • Additional requirements and information can be found on the program application.

     • You can also apply online on the Georgia Victims Compensation Portal by first registering for access to apply at the victims comp online portal (approval can take up to 5-7 business days).

 
How the Application Review Process works

Download the graphic to see the steps and statuses for a submitted application, and the maximum number of days an application is in each status. If you have questions about the status of your application or the review process, please call 800.547.0060.

IMPORTANT: Approval for filed claims, processing times for application and exact compensation amount is on case by case basis. Please make sure you read and understand the reporting guidelines and filing requirements via the Georgia Victims Compensation website. For Appeals information click here.