Hansen & Rosasco, LLP

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.

Hundreds of volunteer firefighters rushed to the scene of the terrorist attacks on September 11th, 2001. Unfortunately, many of these volunteer firefighters now endure various health conditions related to their service, including over 69 types of cancer. To support these individuals, specific benefits have been introduced by New York legislation (S1411B- A711B) to provide for volunteer firefighters who have developed cancer as a result of exposure to toxins and carcinogens while in the line of duty. Benefits provided by the New York State Volunteer Firefighter Gap Coverage Cancer Disability Benefits Act became effective January 1, 2019. Depending on individual circumstances, benefits may include a lump sum payment, a disability-based monthly payment, and/or an accidental death benefit for family members. 

At Hansen & Rosasco, LLP, our experienced 9/11 attorneys are dedicated to advocating for the 9/11 community. If you are a 9/11 volunteer firefighter who has developed cancer, we are available to answer your questions regarding the benefits and compensation available to you. We offer comprehensive legal services through every step of the process, ensuring you receive the support and compensation you rightfully deserve.  

The World Trade Center (WTC) Health Program provides essential medical monitoring and treatment for survivors, both civilians and first responders, who were diagnosed with cancer or a respiratory/digestive condition after the 9/11 attacks. Enrolling in this program is a crucial step for those who were present in lower Manhattan between September 11, 2001, and May 30, 2002. Whether you are currently in good health or you are or have suffered from any 9/11-related health condition such as any cancer or breathing or digestive disorder, the WTC Health Program recommends that 9/11 survivors and responders enroll in the program immediately. 

Receiving an award from the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) can be a significant turning point for those impacted by the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center (WTC). While this compensation brings some relief, it also presents a new challenge: managing and utilizing this award effectively. Navigating the financial aspects of a VCF award requires thoughtful planning, especially considering the long-term health concerns and financial impacts associated with 9/11-related conditions. What to do with your VCF award money depends on your unique circumstances, but the dedicated 9/11 attorneys at Hansen & Rosasco, LLP can offer practical advice and tips on how to use your VCF award to secure a stable and secure financial future, addressing both immediate needs and long-term goals.

As we welcome the beginning of another new year, anyone who was potentially affected by the 9/11 attacks should make sure they meet any deadlines, register with the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund (VCF), and take the first step towards getting free lifetime 9/11 healthcare and enroll in the  World Trade Center Health Program. The VCF was established to provide necessary financial support to those who have suffered from physical health conditions in the aftermath of the collapse of the World Trade Center (WTC). 

Tragically, since 9/11, more people have died from a 9/11-related cancer or other illnesses due to the toxic dust and fumes than the amount of people who died that day due to the initial attack. To address this tragedy, the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) is open to families who have lost loved ones to a 9/11 cancer or breathing condition in the 20-plus years since the attacks. Even if the death of your loved one occurred many years ago, you may still be entitled to compensation from the 9/11 VCF. This fund is available to not only the families of first responders, but also the families who lost loved ones who lived, worked, or went to school in Lower Manhattan (anywhere south of Canal Street) between 9/11 and May 30, 2002. 

The year 2023 has been pivotal for cancer research, with groundbreaking advancements promising a new era of cancer care and treatment options for patients, including those suffering from one or more of the 70+ different 9/11 cancers. From the approval of innovative therapies by the Food and Drug Administration to significant strides in clinical trials, these developments are changing the landscape of oncology. Here's a look at some of the year's most promising advancements.

Long after hijacked airliners piloted by terrorists took down the World Trade Center towers in New York more than 22 years ago, fires burned below the fallen buildings’ rubble, emitting lethal toxins that posed long-term health problems for thousands of people.

Chronic health conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) have been a monumental struggle for thousands of 9/11 responders and survivors. Fortunately, help is available. For those who have developed GERD as a result of the terrorist attacks, medical monitoring and treatment are available through the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP), and financial compensation is available through the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF). Understanding the condition and how it relates to the 9/11 terrorist attacks is the first step for responders and survivors in navigating the support that is available to them.

The September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) was created to provide financial relief to the individuals and families affected by the 9/11 attacks and subsequent rescue and debris removal efforts. Yet, receiving a VCF award brings forth a new challenge: How to wisely use the award money to secure a financially stable future, especially considering the long-term health conditions and possible terminal illnesses many victims face.