To assist with the recovery from the violent act, the FAS can pay primary victims up to $61,499[1] in financial assistance. This amount is in addition to any special financial assistance a primary victim may be eligible for and funeral expenses.
The financial assistance the FAS will provide to a primary victim depends on what kind of expenses they have incurred or are likely to incur in the future because of the violent act, and whether the amount requested for the expense is reasonable.
The FAS can provide financial assistance to a primary victim for:
- counselling expenses
- medical expenses
- lost earnings up to $20,500[2]
- lost or damaged clothing worn at the time of the violent act
- safety expenses, and
- in exceptional circumstances, expenses to assist a victim with their recovery.[3]
Primary victims are entitled for up to $25,000 of Special financial assistance, which is in addition to the $61,499[4] limit.
The FAS cannot provide financial assistance for lost or damaged property (unless it is clothing worn at the time of the violent act or safety-related items required as a result of the violent act).
✅ Eligible for assistance as a primary victim Example: Emily was the victim of a violent assault. The unknown offender followed Emily home and assaulted her in her front yard. Emily suffered a broken arm, minor head injuries and damage to her coat and prescription glasses. She paid for medical bills to treat her injuries and for replacement glasses and a new coat. Emily also installed a security camera and sensor light in her front yard as a security measure. Emily provided receipts for the medical treatment, new glasses, coat and security equipment. Emily incurred these costs as a direct result of the violent act and the FAS provided Emily with assistance to cover these costs. |
Footnotes
[1] This amount is indexed each financial year in accordance with section 72 of the Act.
[2] This amount is indexed each financial year in accordance with section 72 of the Act.
[3] Section 10 of the Act.
[4] This amount is indexed each financial year in accordance with section 72 of the Act.
Updated