Who is Eligible to Make a 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund Claim?

The September 11th Victim Compensation Fund, also referred to as the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund, is a federal program created to provide financial compensation and assistance to individuals who suffered physical harm or died as a result of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, as well as efforts related to cleanup in the aftermath. But who is eligible to make a 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund claim? 

What is the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF)?

“The VCF provides compensation to individuals (or a personal representative of a deceased individual) who were present at one of the three crash sites” on September 11, 2001, “and who have since been diagnosed with a 9/11-related physical illness,” the Fund’s website reveals. 

The sites and timeframes eligible for these claims are as follows:

• The World Trade Center or the nearby New York City (NYC) Exposure Zone between September 11, 2001, and May 30, 2002
• The Pentagon site between September 11, 2001, and November 19, 2001 
• The Shanksville, Pennsylvania site between September 11, 2001, and October 3, 2001

The Fund was made to compensate for physical harm or death caused by the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, or the debris removal efforts right after the attacks. 

Who is Eligible to Make a Claim?

People who were present at the aforementioned sites – or their representatives if the individual has passed away – and who later suffered from an illness related to the event may be able to make a 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund Claim.

“The VCF is not limited to first responders,” a FAQ sheet from the VCF website notes. 

“Compensation is also available to those who worked or volunteered in construction, clean-up, and debris removal; as well as people who lived, worked, or went to school in the NYC exposure zone.”

Generally, the VCF offers compensation to victims who suffered physical harm because of their exposure to the toxins released during and after the attacks on 9/11, including injuries and illnesses such as respiratory diseases, cancers, and mental health conditions. But consulting with an attorney to determine eligibility is advisable.

It should also be noted that the VCF and the World Trade Center (WTC) Health Program are two separate programs with different eligibility criteria. If you are confused about whether or not you may be eligible for either program, it may be time to work with an attorney who is knowledgeable in this area.

Call Phillips Law Group for Assistance

If you or a loved one were present at the 9/11 attack sites and have suffered physical harm as a direct result of the attacks or the rescue and cleanup efforts, it’s crucial to look into your eligibility for compensation through the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund. 

Please give us a call today at 602-222-2222 to learn more. Our team can assist you with a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your situation. Contact us today to find out more.