This notice is from our friends at the Patrolmen’s Benevolent Association.
The first deadline to register for the World Trade Center Victims’ Compensation Fund (“VCF”) is quickly approaching. Anyone diagnosed with a physical illness or injury as a result of their work at the World Trade Center sites should register with the Victims’ Compensation Fund before the October 3, 2013 deadline.
A list of approved illness can be found on the VCF website at vcf.gov/faq and is updated periodically.
Step 1: Register at vcf.gov or call toll-free number 1-855-885-1555 to receive the forms by mail. You must register within two years of the date in which you are diagnosed with a World Trade Center illness. Once you register you will receive a claim number which you must maintain for your records.
- Registration Deadline: Anyone diagnosed with a WTC covered illness before October 3, 2011 must register with the Victims Compensation Fund by October 3, 2013. Anyone diagnosed with a WTC illness after the October 3rd, 2011 date will have two years from the date of diagnosis to register with the VCF.
- Registration Deadline for Cancer: Anyone diagnosed with WTC cancer before October 12, 2012 must register with the Victims Compensation Fund by October 12, 2014. Anyone diagnosis with a WTC cancer after the October 12th, 2012 will have two years from the date of diagnosis to register with the VCF.
Step 2: Once you have registered with the fund and received a claim number you will need to complete the eligibility form and compensation form in order to complete your claim.
- Eligibility Form: The eligibility form will require much of the same information requested during registration. If you apply on-line much of the information will be automated based on your previous answers. In addition, you will be required to provide information regarding work performed at the WTC sites as well as information regarding any physical illness or injuries sustained as a result. You will be required to provide proof of your presence and the injuries sustained.
- Compensation Form: The compensation form will be used to evaluate the monetary value of your claim. You will be required to provide information regarding any out-of-pocket expenses, loss of earnings or future earnings and any other expenses that were realized as a result of your work at the WTC.
Given the complexity of the process, members may consider obtaining legal advice and assistance in filing. If you do decide to retain counsel, attorney’s fees are limited to 10% of the award.
