Victims of violent crime often face unexpected financial burdens. Indiana’s Victim Compensation Program (VCP) provides essential relief by reimbursing certain crime-related expenses.
As of 2025, victims and their dependents may qualify for up to $20,000 in total benefits—including $15,000 for injury- or death-related costs and an additional $5,000 for funeral and burial.
This guide explains exactly what expenses are covered, which costs are excluded, and recent program updates.
Expenses Covered Under Indiana’s Victim Compensation Program
The program focuses on direct, crime-related costs that victims or their families cannot recover from other sources like insurance or restitution.
| Category | What’s Covered | Limits & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Medical & Health Care | Hospital, surgery, dental, optometry, ambulance, lab tests, x-rays, prescriptions, physical therapy | Within $15,000 injury/death cap; must be incurred within 2 years |
| Mental Health Counseling | Counseling for victims and dependents | Up to $3,000 |
| Lost Wages | Verified lost income due to injury or treatment | Covered under total cap |
| Loss of Support | Assistance for dependents if victim is killed | Proof of dependency required |
| Child Care Services | Costs incurred due to treatment or appointments | Included under total award |
| Attorney Fees | Limited reimbursement for successful appeals within the program | Only in Victim Compensation Program appeal cases |
| Funeral & Burial | Burial, cremation, basic funeral charges | Up to $5,000, in addition to $15,000 cap |
| Crime-Scene Cleanup | Cleanup of blood or bodily fluids | Eligible for crimes after July 1, 2022 |
| Security Repairs | Replacement of windows or door locks after a qualifying crime | Eligible for crimes after July 1, 2022 |
Expenses Not Covered
The program does not cover everything. Victims should know the following are excluded:
- Property damage (other than locks/windows in qualifying cases)
- Relocation or moving costs
- Rent, utilities, food, or lodging expenses
- Burial-related extras (clothing, flowers, food)
- Pain and suffering damages
- Unverified or undocumented expenses
- Most attorney fees, except limited appeal-related
Eligibility Notes
- The crime must have occurred in Indiana.
- The victim must have suffered bodily injury or death.
- The incident must be reported within 72 hours (exceptions apply in sexual assault cases).
- Medical expenses must be incurred within 2 years of the crime.
- Out-of-pocket costs must total at least $100.
- Claims must be filed within 2 years of the incident.
Indiana’s Victim Compensation Program ensures victims of violent crimes receive financial relief for the most critical costs, including medical treatment, counseling, lost wages, funerals, and limited safety repairs.
With clear limits and strict eligibility rules, understanding the covered and excluded expenses is key to successfully filing a claim. For many victims, this program serves as a vital resource during one of life’s most challenging times.
FAQs
Does the program cover relocation or hotel costs if I feel unsafe?
No, moving, travel, and hotel expenses are not covered.
Is the $3,000 counseling limit separate from the overall maximum?
Yes, counseling has a specific $3,000 cap, but total reimbursement still cannot exceed the program’s maximum benefit.
Can property damage like stolen items or vehicle damage be reimbursed?
No, property loss is not covered, except for window or lock replacement in qualifying crimes after July 1, 2022.