If you've ever been a victim of a violent crime, you know how it can upend your life. Not only do you have the emotional and physical aftermath of the crime itself, but also the financial burden crimes can bring with them: medical bills, counseling expenses, even funeral costs.

The Crime Victim Reimbursement program, previously known as the Crime Victim Reparations program, and our Office of Justice Programs (OJP) is here to help. From July 1, 2022, through June 30, OJP provided financial help to 1,372 victims for losses incurred after a crime.

“The numbers don't lie. This program is extremely helpful for people who are navigating through their worst days to try and discover their new normal," OJP Director Kate Weeks said.

The Minnesota Legislature changed the name of the program this year to more accurately represent its intent and the resources it offers to people following a crime. The change doesn't alter eligibility requirements or the process victims use to get help.

The reimbursement program helps those who have experienced or whose family member has experienced violent crimes such a homicide, assault, child abuse and criminal vehicular operation. Property crimes are not covered. It's important to remember that the crime must have occurred in Minnesota, the crime must be reported to police within 30 days, and the claim must be filed within three years.

There are other requirements as well. To qualify for the program, victims must cooperate fully with police and prosecutors. People harmed while committing a crime are not eligible for reimbursement. The full requirements are listed online.

Those who qualify could be reimbursed for up to $50,000 in medical bills, funeral costs, cultural healing services and lost wages, among other expenses. Crime victims receive benefits after they have submitted documentation of the expenses to OJP and staff process and distribute the funds.

Crime victims can apply through the Victim Services Portal on the OJP's Minnesota Crime Victims Reimbursement Program webpage. Once in the portal, the user creates a profile, submits the requested information in the application, and uploads documents to support the application. After a profile has been created, the applicant can check on the status of their claim through the portal. Subsequent documents related to the claim must be submitted through the portal.

If you prefer to fill out a paper form, we have those as well, in both English and Spanish. See our  Minnesota Crime Victims Reimbursement Program webpage for details.

Victims can get assistance filling out the form from the victim or witness coordinator in their county attorney's office or from an advocate in their local sexual assault, domestic violence program or general crime victim program. We can help you find a program in your county.​​​