In some situations, victims of fraud and scams may have some avenues for financial compensation.

In criminal cases, fraud and scam victims can request that the court order the defendant to pay them restitution for their out-of-pocket losses related to the crime as part of the sentence.  

In identity theft cases, state law requires the defendant if convicted to pay restitution of not less than $1,000 to each direct victim of the offense.

More information about restitution can be found in OJP’s Restitution brochure and on the Minnesota Judicial Branch website.

In 2025, the Consumer Fraud Restitution Fund was created to help victims of fraud and scams who have suffered financial loss. The fund is in the process of getting set up and will be managed by the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office (AGO).  Once the program is launched, information will be posted here about the fund and the application process. In the meantime, report scams to the AGO using the Consumer Assistance Request Form on the AGO’s website.

To be eligible for the fund, the scam or fraud must have occurred in Minnesota. There is no requirement that it be reported to the police, however, it may be helpful for the AGO to show evidence that the victim has followed through with criminal authorities. Victims must provide the AGO with documentation to show monetary losses, for example, receipts, bank records, emails and correspondence.

The Real Estate Education, Research and Recovery Fund is to compensate a person who suffered out-of-pocket losses due to a licensed real estate broker, salesperson, or closing agent’s fraudulent, deceptive or dishonest practices, or conversion of trust funds.  The real estate broker, salesperson or closing agent must have been licensed at the time of the fraudulent action for the loss to be considered for compensation.

Information about the Real Estate Education, Research and Recovery Fund and application process can be found on the Minnesota Commerce Department website.

The Contractor Recovery Fund compensates owners or tenants of residential property in Minnesota who have suffered an actual and direct out-of-pocket loss due to a licensed contractor's fraudulent, deceptive or dishonest practices; conversion of funds; or failure of performance. The fund is available to those owners or tenants who have obtained a final civil judgment against the licensed residential contractor.

Information about the Contractor Recovery Fund and application process can be found on the Department of Labor and Industry website.