On September 11, 2001, the world changed forever. The terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center, Pentagon, United Airlines Flight 175, and American airlines flight 11 killed nearly 3,000 people and injured thousands more. In the aftermath of the tragedy, the government created the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) to provide financial assistance to those who suffered physical harm or death due to the attacks or their aftermath.
However, not everyone affected by 9/11 is eligible for the VCF claim, and navigating the complex rules and requirements can be daunting. This article explains how to determine if you’re eligible for the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund.
Check Your Eligibility Criteria
The first thing to do is to review the eligibility criteria set forth by the VCF. As of August 2021, the VCF is open to the following categories of claimants:
Determine Your Time Frame
The VCF has strict deadlines for filing claims and registering for the program. The general rule is that you must file your claim within two years of the date that you knew or should have known that you had a 9/11-related physical health condition or within two years of the date of death of the individual on whose behalf you are filing a claim. However, there are some exceptions and nuances to this rule, such as:
Document Your Physical Health Condition
To be eligible for compensation from the VCF, you must have a certified physical health condition linked to the 9/11 attacks or their aftermath. The VCF has a list of eligible conditions that includes more than 70 types of cancer, respiratory and digestive disorders, skin and eye conditions, and mental health conditions, among others.
However, you must have a diagnosis from a qualified medical professional that establishes the link between your condition and 9/11 and the date of onset or diagnosis. You must also provide evidence of your treatment, including medical records, bills, and prescriptions.
Additionally, if claiming compensation for lost income or benefits, you must provide proof of your earnings, taxes, and benefits, such as W-2 forms, pay stubs, and Social Security statements. If you are claiming compensation for non-economic losses, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, or loss of consortium, you must provide documentation that supports your claim, such as a narrative statement, witness statements, or other forms of evidence.
Conclusion
If you or a loved one was affected by 9/11 and may be eligible for compensation, don’t hesitate to explore your options and seek the support you deserve. The VCF provides resources and assistance to help you navigate it.