Claim Procedures for the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund

Changes in 9/11 Claim Procedures

On August 1, 2016, the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund established new procedures for filing 9/11 claims which changed the process from a two-step procedure to a one-step procedure. This was the result of the passage of the James Zadroga Reauthorization Act of 2015. A new 16-page claim form was released in addition to the main VCF claim form. There are also 17 pages of additional information (called “appendixes”) that may be required, depending on each individual claim.

Step-by-Step Guide to 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund Claims Procedures

The September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) provides financial compensation to individuals (or their families) who suffered physical harm or lost loved ones due to the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, or their aftermath (including exposure to toxic debris).

Below is a step-by-step detailed guide on how Hansen & Rosasco will file a claim with the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund on your behalf:

Step 1: Hansen & Rosasco Will Determine Your Eligibility

Before filing a VCF claim, one of our Paralegals will confirm that you meet the “eligibility” requirements by taking detailed information with you over the phone about your 9/11 experience. Our initial consultation is always free and we answer all your initial questions on our first phone call.

The VCF compensates:

Individuals (or representatives of deceased individuals) who were present at the 9/11 New York City Exposure Zone (generally below Canal Street in lower Manhattan), the Pentagon, or Shanksville, PA crash sites between September 11, 2001, and May 30, 2002.
Those diagnosed with a 9/11-related physical health condition “certified” by the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP).
Personal representatives filing for deceased victims.

Important Notes:

The fund does not compensate for mental health conditions.
You must register within the applicable deadlines.

Step 2: Hansen & Rosasco Will Register You with the VCF

Registration for the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund simply preserves your right to file a claim but is not an actual claim filing and does not obligate you to submit a claim.

Hansen & Rosasco will “Register” You with the VCF to Preserve your rights to File an actual “Claim” in the future. There is no charge for Hansen & Rosasco to “Register” you with the VCF

Step 3: Hansen & Rosasco Will Gather the Required Legal and Medical Documents

We must prove your presence (oftentimes with sworn witness statements) at an “exposure site” and your health condition.

1. Proof of Presence at a 9/11 Exposure Site

Acceptable documents for proof of presence include:

Sworn Witness statements (if no documentary evidence is available).
Employer records (pay stubs, letters, etc.).
Union or work-related documentation.
School or daycare records.
Official government or agency records (police, fire department logs).
Contemporaneous hospital or medical records

2. Proof of a 9/11 “Certified” Health Condition for the WTC Health Program

Hansen & Rosasco will help you obtain “certification” from the WTC Health Program (WTCHP) for your particular 9/11-related health condition, such as one of 69 different cancers or various breathing conditions.

3. Proof of Economic and Non-Economic Loss Payout Chart

For Pain & Suffering Awards: Hansen & Rosasco will obtain your medical records for proper certification and awards.
For Lost Wage Awards: Tax returns, employment records, and/or Social Security earnings histories.
For Medical Expenses: Insurance records, bills, and receipts.
For Death Cases: Surrogate Court Filing Fees for Personal Representative Appointment (Hansen & Rosasco pays with no cost to you), Death Certificates, funeral home, and burial receipts for reimbursement.

4. Additional Documentation for Deceased Victims

Hansen & Rosasco will obtain a Death certificate.
Hansen & Rosasco will apply to the Surrogate’s Court for Proof of appointment as the 9/11 Victim's Personal Representative in order to file a claim at no cost to the Representative or the family.
Hansen & Rosasco will obtain a Cause of Death linked to a 9/11-related illness (autopsy report or doctor’s statement).

Step 4: Hansen & Rosasco Will Review and File Your 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund Claim

After gathering all required legal and medical documents, our attorneys will review and submit your claim.

Step 5: 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund Reviews Your Claim

Once Hansen & Rosasco submits your 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund claim, the VCF reviews your claim for:

Eligibility Confirmation – Ensuring you meet the required exposure and medical condition requirements.
Compensation Calculation – Evaluating your non-economic (pain & suffering) and/or economic (lost wage and benefits) losses.

Currently, as of February 2025, this process can take between 12-18 months to receive your award depending on complexity.

Step 6: You Will Receive a Compensation Decision

If approved, you and Hansen & Rosasco will receive a compensation award letter. Hansen & Rosasco will review the Award Notice for correctness.

If denied for eligibility or for underpayment, Hansen & Rosasco may appeal to a panel of Hearing Officers at the US Department of Justice.

Step 7: Appeal 9/11 VCF Decisions (If Necessary)

If your claim is denied or underpaid, Hansen & Rosasco can request a hearing within 30 days of the decision. We will submit additional documentation and legal arguments to support your appeal. Currently as of February 2025, waiting for an appeal hearing can take up to 12 months, and an actual decision on your appeal can take an additional 12 months.

Step 8: Hansen & Rosasco Will Monitor Your Claim Status

Because it may take the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund 12 months or more to issue an award notice, we will diligently monitor your claim. Occasionally, the VCF will issue “Missing Information Letters” (MIL’s)and we will follow up with the VCF to provide additional documents.

Frequently Asked Questions About the VCF Claims Process

Why Hire a 9/11 Attorney?

An attorney helps ensure your claim is accurate, complete, and supported with the proper documentation in order to avoid mistakes and delays. They can also advocate for the maximum compensation you deserve and assist with appeals if necessary.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a 9/11 Attorney?

Most 9/11 attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if your claim is successful. Fees are capped at 10% of your total VCF award.

How Long Does the Claims Process Take?

The VCF typically takes several months to process claims, depending on the complexity of the case and whether additional documentation is required. Once your claim is submitted, the VCF is currently taking about 12-18 months to review all your documents and issue a decision on how much compensation you are entitled to.

What is Proof of Presence?

Proof of presence is evidence that shows you were within the 9/11 exposure zone during the required timeframe. Examples include witness statements, employment records, affidavits, or school attendance records.

What is the Exposure Zone?

The exposure zone includes areas in Lower Manhattan south of Canal Street, the Fresh Kills Landfill, and other key locations where individuals were exposed to toxins from debris removal and cleanup efforts.

What Cancers Qualify for VCF Coverage?

The VCF covers over 69 types of cancers, including respiratory, digestive, and skin cancers, as well as many others certified by the WTC Health Program.

We Work Exclusively with 9/11 Victims and Families

The 9/11 attorneys at Hansen & Rosasco, LLP will handle your 9/11 claims, answer all your questions related to the VCF, and make sure you are informed and supported every step of the way. Let us help you get your VCF application started today. Start your FREE claim review here or call us today at 855-839-2947.

“My partner was given the most professional and thorough attention in the process of preparing an application for the Victims Compensation Fund. After having a very serious form of cancer, he welcomed the advice and care you provided which was greatly needed.” -Beverly R.

Claims Procedures

9/11 Victim Compensation Fund Claims Procedures

86% of all Claimants Hire a 9/11 Attorney for their VCF Claims