The September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) is essential for responders, survivors, and surviving family members seeking financial recovery for health conditions caused by exposure to toxins released on September 11, 2001. If you think you qualify, you have a limited time to take steps that protect your access to that compensation. Remember, there are two deadlines: one for submitting your claim and another for registering with the program. Our experienced VCF lawyer is prepared to assist with the claims process.
The VCF Claim Filing Deadline Is October 1, 2090
In 2019, the Never Forget the Heroes: James Zadroga, Ray Pfeifer, and Luis Alvarez Permanent Authorization of the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund Act fully funded the VCF and extended the filing deadline to October 1, 2090. All VCF claimants must file by that deadline.
That said, the VCF encourages claimants to file as early as possible. The program recommends filing claims after the World Trade Center (WTC) Health Program has certified their condition as 9/11-related and the full scope of their losses can be established.
The Registration Deadline Varies Based on Your Case
The VCF has a separate registration deadline. Registration is not filing; it simply preserves your right to file a claim later. You do not need to be sick, diagnosed, or certified to register.
Unlike the filing deadline, your registration deadline depends on your circumstances:
- If you registered a personal injury or deceased claim on or before July 29, 2021, you have already met your registration deadline.
- If a government entity has determined that your condition is 9/11-related, you must register within two years of that determination.
- If you are a personal representative filing a deceased claim, you must register within two years of the victim’s date of death or the date the fatal condition was determined to be 9/11-related, whichever is later.
When Should You Register, and When Should You File?
You may register with the VCF at any time before your individual deadline. In fact, the VCF actively encourages early registration, including for people who are not sick and have not been certified by the WTC Health Program. Early registration helps the program anticipate its caseload and process claims faster.
You should file a VCF claim once the WTC Health Program certifies your 9/11-related physical health condition. Waiting until certification and the full scope of your losses are known allows the VCF to assess your claim effectively, avoiding the need for a back-and-forth exchange of amendments and supplemental documentation.
How Long Does the VCF Take to Review and Approve a Claim?
On average, the VCF takes 12 to 18 months to process and approve a claim. The program reviews applications on a first-come, first-served basis, so the sooner you file, the sooner you are likely to hear back. Certain factors can lengthen that timeline, such as missing documentation, amendments submitted after filing, or complex damages calculations.
Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC Can Help You Meet Your VCF Deadline
If you plan to seek compensation through the VCF, it is important to act as soon as you are able. Missing your registration deadline can bar your claim, leaving you without a path to recovery through the fund. A 9/11 VCF claims attorney can guide you through the process and protect your interests every step of the way. Contact Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC today for a free consultation and learn how we can help.