The Victim Compensation Fund, in collaboration with the City Attorney's Office and Scholar Fund, aims to alleviate the financial burdens faced by individuals and small businesses in Seattle who have suffered losses due to unforeseen incidents. Recognizing the challenges and inequities of the restitution system, this initiative ensures victims receive the necessary compensation while promoting a more restorative approach to justice. Eligible recipients can expect to receive up to $1000.00 in restitution funds.
Our dedicated team will proactively contact potential beneficiaries, guiding them through the verification process, which includes confirming residency, income, and other eligibility criteria.
Need support? Get in touch and we'll be happy to answer at support@victimcompfund.org
Don't see your question here? Get in touch and we'll be happy to answer at support@victimcompfund.org
Victims of incidents within the Seattle Municipal Court's jurisdiction (misdemeanors) occurring within Seattle are eligible. This includes individuals, small businesses, and small non-profits. Large businesses, insurance companies, and self-insured entities are deprioritized. Law enforcement officers and government entities (with specific exceptions) are not eligible.
Eligible individuals and entities will be proactively contacted by the Scholar Fund team based on referrals from the City Attorney’s Office. If you believe you're eligible and haven't been contacted, please reach out to support@victimcompfund.org.
Approved applicants will receive a one-time payment of up to $1000.00.
Payments should not affect SSI. However, they might be counted as income for certain public benefits, such as food assistance/SNAP. We recommend contacting the Social Security Administration or a legal advisor for specific concerns.
The fund covers out-of-pocket financial losses due to property damage or loss, medical bills resulting from personal injuries, indirect or intangible harms directly tied to the offense, counseling costs related to the offense, and lost wages due to injury or property loss.
The long-term vision is to transition the fund's administration to a community-based strategy, operating outside of the criminal legal system and the City, to decrease barriers to access and promote restorative justice.
The Victim Compensation Fund is a collaboration between the City Attorney's Office (LAW), Scholar Fund, Facilities and Administrative Services (FAS), and the Human Services Department (HSD). Scholar Fund plays a pivotal role in reaching out to eligible recipients and gathering necessary documentation.