If you or a loved one has been affected by a violent crime in Indiana, the Indiana Victim Compensation Program (IVCP) can provide critical financial support.
This program is designed to help victims and their families recover financially by covering certain out-of-pocket costs that result from crime-related injuries or death. Here’s a detailed guide on eligibility, covered expenses, and how to apply.
What is the Indiana Victim Compensation Program?
The IVCP is a financial assistance program managed by the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute (ICJI). It is considered a payer of last resort, meaning it covers expenses not already paid by insurance, Medicaid, or other forms of reimbursement.
The program provides up to $20,000 in total benefits—with $15,000 for medical and other eligible expenses and an additional $5,000 strictly for funeral and burial costs.
Who is Eligible?
Eligibility depends on several key factors:
- You must be an innocent victim of a violent crime in Indiana.
- Victims must have suffered bodily injury or be the dependent/survivor of a deceased victim.
- Victims injured while helping law enforcement or preventing a crime may also qualify.
- The crime must usually be reported to the police within 72 hours (exceptions apply for sexual assault cases involving medical exams).
- Applicants must have incurred at least $100 in out-of-pocket expenses.
- The application must be filed within two years of the crime.
What Expenses Are Covered?
The Indiana Victim Compensation Program provides coverage for a wide range of crime-related costs, including:
- Medical, dental, and hospital bills
- Prescription medications
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Mental health counseling (up to $3,000)
- Lost wages due to injury recovery
- Funeral and burial expenses (up to $5,000)
- Childcare expenses during medical appointments or court appearances
- Ambulance services and optometry care
- Crime scene clean-up and replacement of locks/windows (added in recent program updates)
- Limited attorney fees (if related to a successful appeal)
Not covered: property damage (except certain locks/windows), relocation costs, rent, utilities, food, travel, lodging, or compensation for pain and suffering.
Key Program Details at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Award | Up to $20,000 total ($15,000 for costs + $5,000 funeral/burial) |
| Eligibility | Victims of violent crimes, dependents of deceased victims, or those injured assisting law enforcement |
| Minimum Expense | At least $100 out-of-pocket |
| Deadline | Apply within 2 years of the crime (180 days for sexual assault hospital claims) |
| Covered Costs | Medical, dental, counseling, lost wages, funeral/burial, crime scene clean-up, childcare |
| Not Covered | Property damage, relocation, daily living expenses, pain and suffering |
How to Apply
Applying for compensation is a structured process:
- Gather documents: Collect police reports, medical bills, receipts, proof of lost wages, and any other expense records.
- Submit the application:
- Apply online through the ICJI portal, or
- Submit a paper application via mail, fax, or hand-delivery.
- Cooperate with investigators: Respond promptly to requests for additional information.
- Await decision: Processing may take several months depending on case complexity.
- Payment process: Payments are usually made directly to providers first, and reimbursements to victims are issued if funds remain.
- Appeals: If denied, you have 30 days to request an administrative hearing.
Tips for a Successful Claim
- File as early as possible to meet the two-year deadline.
- Keep all receipts, invoices, and medical documents for proof.
- Follow up regularly with your claims analyst to avoid unnecessary delays.
- Understand that if another source later pays for the same expense, you may need to repay the state.
The Indiana Victim Compensation Program is a vital resource for crime victims and their families, offering up to $20,000 in financial relief for medical care, counseling, lost wages, funeral costs, and more.
By applying promptly, keeping detailed records, and cooperating with program staff, victims can significantly reduce the financial burden of recovering from crime-related trauma.
FAQs
Do I need a lawyer to apply?
No. Most victims file directly. Attorney fees are only reimbursed in limited cases involving a successful appeal.
Can I apply if the offender was never caught?
Yes. An arrest or conviction is not required for eligibility.
How long does it take to get compensation?
Processing varies, but complete applications are typically resolved within a few months.