Victims Compensation

Georgia Crime Victims Compensation Program

In order to qualify for the Georgia Crime Victims Compensation Program, the nature of the crime must be one of the eligible offenses. The list below is a short list of crimes that would be considered eligible for reimbursement benefits. Generally, the crimes that make one eligible are the crimes that cause bodily harm to the victim. Property crimes, such as theft, are not eligible for Victims Compensation but victims should request Restitution from the offender at sentencing. The basic types of crimes that make one eligible for Victims Compensation are:

• Homicide
• Homicide by Vehicle
• Sexual Offenses
• Child Molestation
• Human Trafficking
• Cruelty to Children - Family Violence
• DUI Crashes
• Assault
• Battery

All of the reimbursable expenses must meet the program requirements and have all of the required documentation submitted to the program for approval of the claim. There is also a maximum pay out amount of $25,000.00 per victimization. For more information visit the Georgia Crime Victims Compensation Program website or contact Victim Advocate Julie Tomlin at (706)295-5210 or email: Julie.Tomlin@floydcountyga.org.

Victims Compensation General Information

1. What is the turn around time for CVCP application?
   Once application packet is completed and submitted, the processing time is under 30 days. Once the application is processed and awarded, please allow up to 4 weeks to receive payment from GBI.
2. How soon will I get my reimbursement check?
   Once a claim is awarded, please allow up to 4 weeks for receive payment from the Georgia Bureau of Investigation’s (GBI) accounting office.
3. When is a W-9 required?
   A completed W-9 form is required for new payees or payees who have not been paid in over a year to certify their identity. If you are a victim/claimant, you should provide a Social Security Number or Tax Identification Number. If you are a business, you should provide an EIN. The information on the W-9 must match the information in the IRS system for how you filed your taxes.
4. What are the requirements for counseling benefits?
   In addition to completing the application packet, a completed Psychological Service Report is sent to the provider who must complete it and return it to the program after the initial counseling visit. The provider must document that the services rendered are directly related to the crime listed on the investigative report. The report must be submitted by the licensed mental health professional that provided the service. A SMET (Serious Mental or Emotional Trauma) form may also be required.
5. What is the counseling fee schedule?
   The Program’s current hourly payment schedule for the counseling benefits is as follows: $45.00 for group/family sessions; $100.00 per individual session for a Licensed Mental Health Professional (e.g. Psychologist, LPC, LMFT, LCSW, etc.); and $125.00 for a Psychiatrist. The initial visit is reimbursed at $100.00.
6. What is an itemized bill for medical expenses?
   An itemized bill for reimbursement of medical expenses shows the provider’s name, address and phone number, the account number (if applicable), the date(s) of service (date actual services were provided), description of all the services provided (e.g. x-ray, replaced tooth, operating room, etc.), charges for each service provided, and total charges and/or balance due. See Itemized Bill Example below.
7. How can I contact the Victims Compensation Program directly?
   Georgia Crime Victims Compensation Program
   Criminal Justice Coordinating Council
   104 Marietta Street, Suite 440
   Atlanta, GA 30303-2743
   1-800-547-0060 or 404-657-2222