Becoming a victim of a crime is overwhelming, but Indiana provides multiple victim assistance programs to help residents recover, seek justice, and rebuild their lives.
These programs cover financial compensation, protection orders, emergency housing, counseling, and real-time offender updates. Here are the top 10 victim services in Indiana (2025) that every resident should know.
1. Indiana Crime Victim Compensation Program
This program reimburses victims for medical bills, counseling, lost wages, funeral expenses, and childcare costs. Eligible victims can receive up to $20,000, with $5,000 reserved for funeral costs. It serves as the payer of last resort, meaning victims must first use insurance or other funds.
2. Indiana Protection Orders
Victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, harassment, or stalking can file for protection orders. Indiana now allows online e-filing, making it easier for residents to secure legal protection without heavy court fees.
3. Address Confidentiality Program
To protect privacy, this program provides victims with a substitute mailing address that prevents abusers from finding them. It is especially useful for domestic violence and stalking victims.
4. SAVIN / VINE Notifications
The Statewide Automated Victim Information and Notification (SAVIN/VINE) system provides 24/7 updates on offender status, including transfers or release. Victims can register online or via phone to receive confidential alerts.
5. Indiana Department of Correction Victim Services
This division notifies registered victims about an offender’s release 45 days before it happens. Victims can also submit parole hearing statements and get safety guidance during release planning.
6. No-Cost Sexual Assault Forensic Exams
Survivors of sexual assault can receive forensic exams at no charge. Billing is handled through state and federal funds, and victims are not required to report to police before getting medical attention.
7. Indiana Coalition to End Sexual Assault & Human Trafficking (ICESAHT)
This coalition connects survivors to rape crisis centers, 24/7 hotlines, advocacy services, and trauma-informed care. It is a crucial support system for survivors seeking immediate help.
8. Indiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence (ICADV)
ICADV works with shelters and advocacy groups to provide emergency housing, legal assistance, counseling, and protective services for survivors of domestic violence. Many centers operate 24/7 crisis hotlines.
9. Indiana Trafficking Victims Assistance Program (ITVAP)
ITVAP supports youth and young adults (up to 24 years old) impacted by trafficking. The program coordinates statewide services such as emergency shelter, legal aid, and mental health counseling.
10. Indiana 211 Helpline
By simply dialing 211, victims can access referrals for housing, legal help, food assistance, and counseling. It operates 24/7 across Indiana and is free for all residents.
Quick Reference
Program | Benefits Offered | How to Access |
---|---|---|
Victim Compensation | Up to $20,000 for medical, lost wages, funeral | Apply via Indiana Criminal Justice Institute |
Protection Orders | Court-issued safety orders | File online or at county clerk’s office |
Address Confidentiality | Substitute mailing address | Register with Attorney General’s Office |
SAVIN / VINE | Offender status alerts | Sign up online or by phone |
IDOC Victim Services | Release notifications & parole input | Register with DOC Victim Services |
Sexual Assault Exams | Free forensic exams | Visit SANE/SAFE hospitals or centers |
ICESAHT | Hotline & crisis support | Contact rape crisis centers statewide |
ICADV | Shelter & domestic violence aid | Call local ICADV partners |
ITVAP | Trafficking survivor services | Contact regional ITVAP coordinators |
Indiana 211 | Statewide resource referrals | Dial 211 (24/7 helpline) |
Indiana offers a comprehensive safety net for victims through these 10 programs. From financial aid to safety planning and trauma support, residents have access to life-changing resources. Knowing these services ensures victims get the protection, dignity, and justice they deserve.
FAQs
How much can I get from Indiana’s Victim Compensation Program?
Eligible victims may receive up to $20,000, including $5,000 for funeral or burial expenses.
Can I get a protection order without pressing criminal charges?
Yes. Victims can request a civil protection order even if no criminal case is filed.
Will I be billed for a sexual assault forensic exam?
No. Victims are never billed; the exam is covered by state and federal funds.