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Message From the DirectorAbout This GuideResources
Resource Guide for Serving U.S. Citizens Victimized Abroad
Publication Date:  April 2008
Contents
Victim Services: An International Outlook
Responding to Victimization Abroad
Coordinating Victim Services
If the Victim Remains Abroad
If the Victim Returns to the United States
International Terrorism
Crime Victim Compensation
Checklists for Assisting U.S. Citizens Victimized Abroad

Crime Victim Compensation

All U.S. states and some U.S. territories operate crime victim compensation programs. These programs provide financial assistance to eligible victims for reimbursement of expenses such as—

  • Medical treatment.

  • Counseling.

  • Funeral costs.

  • Lost income.

  • Lost support.

Eligibility criteria, types of benefits, and compensation limits vary from state to state.

In general, victim compensation programs require the victim to report the crime to law enforcement and, in most cases, request a copy of the police report. Some states accept a letter from a consular officer stating the circumstances of the crime. U.S.-based victim service providers should work with the Office of Overseas Citizens Services to obtain a police report or consular officer letter from abroad.

Resource:

National Association of Crime Victim Compensation Boards
www.nacvcb.org