Michigan Crime Victim Compensation (MI Crime Victim Compensation)
Michigan's Crime Victim Compensation program may help pay out-of-pocket costs that result from a violent crime, including medical expenses, mental health counseling, lost earnings or support, funeral bills, crime scene cleanup, relocation, and residential security. Recent law changes raised the maximum award and extended the filing deadline. Compensation is a payer of last resort, after insurance and other sources.
Who it is for
Victims of violent crime in Michigan, including domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, and human trafficking, who have crime-related expenses not covered by other sources. Surviving family members and certain others affected by the crime may also qualify.
Before you start
How you apply: Apply through your state.
Apply directly to the MDHHS Division of Victim Services. A local victim advocate or victim assistance program can help you file at no cost.
How to apply
- Gather documentation of your crime-related expenses, such as bills, receipts, and proof of lost wages.
- Report the crime to law enforcement, which is generally required for eligibility.
- Complete the Crime Victim Compensation application available on the MDHHS Crime Victim Compensation page.
- Ask a local victim advocate or victim assistance program to help you prepare and submit the claim, free of charge.
- Call the victims-only toll-free helpline at 877-251-7373 with questions about eligibility or your claim.
Deadline: Under changes effective in 2023, a claim generally must be filed within five years from the date of the injury or its discovery. Waivers may apply for good cause. Confirm current deadlines and any exceptions on the MDHHS Crime Victim Compensation page or by calling 877-251-7373. (Fixed deadline)
Amount: Following 2023 law changes, the maximum award increased to $45,000. Award amounts vary by expense type and category caps; confirm current limits with the program.
This is how Michigan runs the national Crime Victim Compensation (VOCA). See the national program .
Verified as of 2026-06-17. Resources are checked periodically against their official source. Details, amounts, and deadlines change. Confirm the current information on the official page before you rely on it.