Can My VCF Claim Be Expedited?

When financial hardships hit, we understand the wait for help can be excruciating. While the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) monetary award was designed to provide vital support to those affected by the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center (WTC), the time it takes to process a claim can be lengthy. Given the weight of physical, emotional, and financial burdens that come with a 9/11-related condition, many 9/11 survivors seek to accelerate the 9/11 VCF payout to find prompt financial relief. While the VCF claims process is designed to be thorough and equitable, there are provisions for expedited claims under certain dire circumstances. Your VCF claim may be expedited if you are experiencing a terminal illness or significant financial hardship.

Filing for Your Claim with the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF)

For those facing terminal illness or severe financial hardship, the VCF offers a provision for expediting the processing of claims or amendments. Notably, the standard of review for lost earnings claims remains the same under expedited processing; it's the processing speed that changes, ensuring quicker handling of the claim.

Before the VCF will consider expediting the decision on a claim and issuing an award, the VCF claimant must still promptly fill out the claim form and gather a substantial amount of evidence, ensuring all details about the claimant's presence in the NYC Exposure Zone, their health conditions, and accurately document their economic and noneconomic losses. Claims submitted go through a thorough review process before an award determination is made.

What Circumstances Lead to Expedited Claims?

There are certain circumstances under which the VCF may prioritize and expedite claims. If a claimant is suffering from a terminal illness, indicating a life expectancy that may not cover the duration of the standard VCF claims process, an expedited review may be requested. In addition, claimants experiencing significant financial hardship, such as imminent or pending foreclosure or eviction proceedings, utility cut-off, or other similar circumstances, may also request an expedited review of their claim. Unfortunately, being behind on bills or late on various payments will not result in a claim being expedited. 

The VCF reviews these requests and typically responds within 48 hours, informing you if your request for expedited processing is accepted or denied. For claims that are approved for expedited processing and have all required documents submitted, the VCF is often able to process the claim, determine the award, and process the payment within 3-4 weeks. Payments are issued as soon as the award letter is sent out, but claimants still retain the right to appeal within 30 days.

Next Steps to Expedite Your VCF Claim

To move forward with expediting a VCF claim, it’s essential to follow the proper procedures outlined by the fund. To initiate this process, individuals or their attorneys must provide all the necessary documentation when they submit their claim, detailing the reasons for expediting the claim, such as terminal illness or significant financial hardship. Supporting documents must also be provided and should be attached to provide evidence for the circumstances that warrant an expedited review request. The VCF undertakes a prompt review of the request for expedited processing and communicates whether they are approved or denied.

It's important for claimants seeking expedited processing to submit a complete claim, including all types of losses – both economic and non-economic – at the time of the claim and expedited request submission. Once the VCF acknowledges the need for expedition, they prioritize the review process and, upon approval of the claim, issue the award letter and arrange for the payment accordingly.

Attorney Guidance Is Key In Expedited VCF Claims

The intricacies of expediting a VCF claim can be complex and may necessitate legal expertise to navigate efficiently. An experienced attorney can help in identifying whether your circumstances qualify for an expedited claim, assist in gathering the requisite supporting documents, and guide you through the process of filing an expedited claim. We play a crucial role in communicating with the VCF, ensuring that the urgency of your situation is conveyed effectively and that all procedural requirements are met to facilitate an expedited resolution.

Consult Hansen & Rosasco to Guide You Through the VCF Claims Process

At Hansen & Rosasco LLP, our knowledge lies in understanding the profound impact of 9/11 on victims and their families, as well as the nuances of the VCF claims process. If your claim needs to be expedited due to terminal illness, or significant financial hardship, or if you have lost a loved one to a 9/11-related condition, our dedicated 9/11 attorneys are prepared to provide the support and guidance necessary. We are committed to ensuring that your claim receives the urgent attention it requires, relieving some of the hardships with the prompt financial support you need and deserve.

Understanding these provisions and utilizing them effectively can be the key to receiving the VCF award in a timely manner. With experienced legal guidance, you can navigate the expedited claims process with confidence, knowing that your claim is being managed with the urgency it warrants. Contact us today to learn more.