The State of California wants to make it easy for victims of violence to apply for compensation benefits. Here are some tips and tricks that can help you with the application process
- Complete every section of the application possible. When filling out a CalVCB application, remember that the more specific and complete you can be, the quicker your application can be processed.
- Include copies of crime reports, bills, receipts and other related documents supporting your specific claim with the application.
- Send crime-related bills to the insurance company, workers’ compensation carrier or Medi-Cal right away. CalVCB works with insurance companies to cover crime-related expenses.
- The application has been translated into multiple languages for ease of non-English speaking victims.
- You are eligible to apply even if you do not have a social security number. CalVCB does not require citizenship and does not ask you to document your status.
- Victim advocates can assist victims throughout the compensation process. Advocates can help with completing applications, gathering documentation, finding emergency food, clothing, and shelter, and filing temporary restraining orders.
- Victims can even designate their advocates or other trusted person to represent them. A victim’s representative can act as a contact on the claim, in case CalVCB has questions about the application.
- If a victim has an attorney, the attorney can represent the victim and CalVCB will reimburse the attorney for their time. Attorney representatives must document their time along with details about the work they do on the claim in order to receive reimbursement for their services.
CalVCB has an online portal where you can begin your claim. Visit CalVCB online to get started.
