Economic Loss Awards Explained

The financial costs of illness are often enormous – even beyond the health care bills.

These expenses are a particular burden for 9/11 responders and survivors who have been diagnosed with cancer or respiratory illnesses.

Economic loss awards may be given in several different scenarios:

• Once you’re certified with a 9/11-related illness by the WTCHP, the program will pick up the out of pocket medical expenses and deductibles associated with your illness that your private health insurance won’t pay.
• If you cannot work for a time after chemotherapy or radiation, we will seek to have the VCF compensate you for the wages and benefits you would have earned.
• If you are found disabled or you are forced to retire early due to your 9/11 cancer or respiratory illness, the VCF will award past, present, and future lost income and benefits.
• An economic loss award will also provide for “replacement services,” regular tasks that you cannot perform for yourself, such as housekeeping, childcare, and transportation.
• If you pass away from a 9/11-related illness, economic loss awards are available for funeral and burial expenses.