Crime Victims Fund

The Crime Victims Fund is a U.S. federal fund established to provide financial support to victims of crimes, helping them recover from the physical, emotional, and financial impacts of criminal acts. The fund is primarily supported by fines and penalties paid by convicted offenders and is administered by the Office for Victims of Crime (OVC). It offers assistance such as compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and funeral costs, as well as funding for victim services programs.

Example

A victim of a violent crime may receive financial assistance from the Crime Victims Fund to cover medical bills and therapy expenses.

Key points

• The Crime Victims Fund provides financial assistance to crime victims in the U.S.

• It is funded by fines and penalties paid by convicted offenders.

• The fund helps cover costs like medical expenses, lost wages, and funeral expenses.

Quick Answers to Curious Questions

How is the Crime Victims Fund financed?

It is primarily funded by fines, penalties, and forfeitures paid by convicted offenders, not by taxpayer dollars.

What types of expenses does the Crime Victims Fund cover?

It covers medical expenses, lost wages, funeral costs, and other financial losses related to being a victim of a crime.

Who administers the Crime Victims Fund?

The Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) administers the fund and distributes resources to support victims and victim services programs.