Victims Compensation Fund

For most VCF claimants, non-economic losses represent the bulk of their recovery. While out of pocket costs for medical treatment — as well as lost wages from total or partial disability — can be significant, intangible losses like pain, disfigurement and the inability to fully enjoy life’s pleasures remain a major factor. Unfortunately, proving the […]

The Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) prohibited the federal government from recognizing same-sex marriages. As a result, same-sex partners who were legally married in their home state were nonetheless denied federal benefits. In 2002, Kenneth R. Feinberg, the special master of the initial September 11 Victim Compensation Fund (VCF), announced that gay and lesbian domestic […]

Once you receive your Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) decision letter, you should expect to receive your first payment within 30 days. The VCF is authorized to pay 10 percent of your total loss in the first installment. The VCF will send you the remainder of your payment sometime between 2016 and 2017. Prior to receiving […]

Deadlines are of critical importance for anyone who potentially has a Victim Compensation Fund claim. However, as each important deadline passes, a new one seems to appear on the horizon. This has caused many people to rush or panic unnecessarily, or worse, to erroneously believe they have lost the opportunity to pursue compensation. However, the […]

Administering the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) is a significant responsibility. Despite notable progress, the Special Master and her staff have faced criticism for the pace at which claims are being processed. As of October 2013, the VCF had a staff of 75, including 11 attorneys working directly under the Special Master. The Special Master […]

Beginning in January, 2014, Special Master Sheila Birnbaum and the Deputy Special Master presided over the first Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) appeals hearings held in New York City. The specially trained and recruited Hearing Officers joined them, conducting both in-person and telephone conference hearings. According to the VCF press release, those overseeing the hearings have […]