If you have been a victim of a crime, such as a physical or sexual assault, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, counseling services, moving costs and even child care expenses, up to $25,000, through Washington state’s Crime Victims Compensation program.
Your initial visit to the emergency department, including but not limited to labs, radiology studies, medications, immunizations and the initial forensic collection of evidence, will be covered by Crime Victims Compensation — even if you have an anonymous kit collected or choose not to file a police report.
Qualifications for additional benefits
To qualify for additional compensation (aside from the initial emergency department visit), it is mandatory to:
- Report the crime to law enforcement, file a police report and cooperate with police investigators.
- You have up to one year to do this, but no compensation will be awarded unless the crime is reported. (This does not apply to the initial emergency department visit.)
- Submit a timely victim compensation application. This application is available through the hospital or online.
How long does the process of compensation take?
Crime Victims Compensation can take several months to process and, as a result, you may have to pay for medical and counseling services up front until the funds are approved. You can call 800-762-3716 to check the status of your application.
Billing
You should not receive any bill for this initial examination in the emergency department. If you receive a bill, contact:
Crime Victims Compensation Program
Department of Labor & Industries
P.O. Box 44520
Olympia, WA 98504-4520
Phone: 360-902-5355
Fax: 360-902-5333