VCCB > FAQ

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q:  My child was sexually abused several years ago but has only now told anyone about it. Can I can still apply for her?

A:  Yes – the Board routinely waives the time limits for child victims of sexual abuse

Q:  I reported the crime to police but now I want the charges dropped. Can I still get help?

A:  A protective order is a civil matter and will not by itself establish you as being eligible for this program.

Q:  The perpetrator wasn’t prosecuted. Does that matter?

A:  A protective order is a civil matter and will not by itself establish you as being eligible for this program.

Q:  My house was burglarized and property was stolen. Can I get help?

A:  Burglary is not one of the compensable crimes listed in statute. However, if you were home at the time of the burglary, the Board may consider you to be eligible. However, they cannot compensate for stolen personal property.

Q:  The crime happened 3 years ago but I’m just getting round to applying for compensation now. Am I eligible?

A:  No. You have to file an application with us within 2 years of the crime. The only exceptions are for child victims of sexual abuse, or if you can prove that you didn’t know or hear about our program until recently.

Q:  My boyfriend has gone to jail because of the incident and now I can’t afford the rent on my own. Will you pay?

A:  We cannot take over payment for day to day living expenses. However, if you have young children, we may be able to help you to move to a new residence you can afford on your own.

Q:  I am testifying at an upcoming trial, but I want to stay for the whole thing. Will you cover my expenses?

A:  Yes. The Department of Law will buy your ticket and pay for accommodation for the day(s) you are testifying. But we can cover hotel expenses for the rest of the time. We also pay $50 per diem for food expenses.