What is the Victims of Crime program?
- The U. S. Department of Justice (DOJ) supports state programs to provide compensation and
assistance to victims of federal and state crimes. - For firefighters, this would generally include deaths that involved arson, homicide, or other
crimes.
What types of benefits are available to families of firefighters killed in the line of duty?
- Each state administers a crime victim compensation program that provides financial assistance.
- The compensable costs and amounts vary from state to state.
What costs may be eligible?
- Medical costs
- Funeral and burial costs
- Mental health counseling
Compensation is only paid when other financial resources, such as private insurance, do not cover
the expenses.
How can I get more information?
- Visit the DOJ Office for Victims of Crime website at www.ovc.gov for a complete list of all services and contact
information on offices throughout the United States and its territories. See
www.nacvcb.org/index.asp?sid=6 for a direct link to your state’s information. - Call toll free at 1-800-851-3420 to order printed resources from DOJ.
