State Agency Crime Victim Compensation Program - Pennsylvania

Originated in 1976 the compensation program now operates within the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency, as part of the Bureau of Victims Services. The bureau also handles VOCA assistance grants for the state. Bureau Director: Carol Lavery Division Manager: Lynn Shiner FUNDING The program receives $15 for each felony and misdemeanor conviction, and uses these funds to pay awards to victims. The program receives an annual VOCA grant. ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS Reporting period: 72 hours Filing period: 1 year Exceptions: Good cause waiver can extend filing period 1 year. In cases of child abuse, extension may be up to 5 years from date of last incident, providing victim was under 18 and offender was a parent, paramour of parent, residing in household, or responsible for victim's welfare. Minimum loss: $100 out-of-pocket loss or 2 continuous weeks' lost wages; waived for applicants aged 60 or older PROCEDURES Staff verifies application and makes a decision. Claims review officer assists on difficult cases. Appeals: The applicant has 30 days to request reconsideration in writing. The applicant also may request a hearing to present new information after an unfavorable reconsideration decision. BENEFITS Maximum award: $35,000 Compensable costs (with limits) Medical expenses Mental health counseling Lost wages/support: maximum of $15,000 in lost wages and $20,000 in lost support; weekly allowance based on average weekly wage as determined by state Dept. of Labor & Industry Funerals: $3,750 plus transportation expenses Replacement services: may pay family member for loss of earnings while providing services to victim; may pay for services formerly rendered by victim at maximum of $6 per hour not to exceed average weekly wage Travel: to obtain medical treatment Rehabilitation Replacement of stolen Social Security, pension, retirement, disability, or court-ordered child/spousal support cash proceeds: up to one months' entitlement Attorney fees: 15% of award, hourly maximum of $75 per hour Emergency: $1,0430 Pennsylvania