The 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund [VCF] was established to provide financial compensation to individuals who suffered physical harm or were killed due to the terrorist attacks that occurred on September 11, 2001, or the debris removal efforts that occurred in the immediate aftermath.
But who is eligible for the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund [VCF]? This is one of the most frequently asked questions when it comes to VCF. Being eligible for the VCF can be quite complex as it involves specific criteria related to presence, exposure, and medical conditions. With an experienced 9/11 VCF attorney by your side, you can easily navigate the complexities. In this blog, we discuss a comprehensive overview of who is eligible for the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund. Let’s get started!
- Victims who were present at the crash sites
One of the groups of people who are eligible for the 9/11 VCF are people who were present at the World Trade Center [WTC], the Pentagon, or the crash site near Pennsylvania during or immediately after the attacks and sustained physical injuries. Additionally, first responders are also eligible for the fund. This group includes police officers, firefighters, paramedics, and emergency medical technicians. These are people who were involved in rescue, recovery, and cleanup operations at the crash sites.
- Individuals within the exposure zone
Another group of people who are eligible for the 9/11 VCF are individuals who lived, worked, or attended school in Lower Manhattan between September 11, 2001, and May 30, 2002, and who have subsequently developed 9/11-related health conditions.
- Those who have qualifying health conditions
If you have certain health conditions due to the attacks, you are also eligible for 9/11 VCF. These conditions include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD], gastroesophagel reflux disease [GERD], asthma, and other respiratory and digestive system disorders – these health conditions are covered.
Various types of cancer are also covered, including 9/11-related skin cancer, 9/11-related lung cancer, 9/11-related prostate cancer , 9/11-related breast cancer, etc. However, these conditions must be certified by the World Trade Center Health Program [WTCHP]. Mental health disorders such as depression, post-traumatic stress disorder [PTSD], and anxiety related to the 9/11 attacks are also covered.
- Those with proof of presence and exposure
For you to qualify for 9/11 VCF, you must show proof of presence and exposure. If you were working at or near Lower Manhattan, you need to issue employment records. This includes pay stubs, employment letters, union records, and any other essential documentation proving that you were working at or near the crash sites or in the exposure zones during the specified period.
Suppose you used to live or attend school in the affected areas. In that case, you must have residency proof, including lease agreements, utility bills, school records, or other documents proving residence or attendance at school. It is recommended to have testimonies from supervisors, colleagues, or other people who can attest to your presence at the crash sites or within the exposure zone.
- Deceased victims
The 9/11 attacks also cause the deaths of many people. Since they are not around to file claims, their legal representatives can file claims on behalf of their estate. This typically includes family members of the deceased or appointed executors who can provide necessary medical and legal documentation to support the claim. For deceased victims, it is imperative to establish that their death was a result of the 9/11-related conditions. Medical records, autopsy reports, and death certificates may be required.
- Volunteers and good Samaritans
When it comes to the 9/11 VCF, there is also a special consideration for specific individuals, including volunteers and good Samaritans. Individuals who volunteered in rescue and recovery efforts without formal employment or contracting status are also eligible for 9/11 VCF. However, they must provide documentation or credible witness statements to establish their presence and activities. Additionally, good Samaritans who provided immediate assistance during the attacks, such as helping injured victims or assisting first responders, are also eligible for VCF under specific circumstances.