I Received My VCF Award – Now What?

| Michael Barasch

Stay in touch with your lawyer. You may be entitled to additional compensation.

From the moment we speak to a new client, foremost on our mind is making sure that they get the compensation they deserve. That is why the most gratifying moments we experience as attorneys for the 9/11 community are when we hand a 9/11 responder or survivor their Victim Compensation Fund award.

But did you know that even after your initial award, you may be be eligible for additional compensation through an amendment?

It is important for clients – especially those who have received an initial award – to understand that they never waive their legal rights and changed circumstances could trigger an amendment. You and your family may be eligible for additional compensation for the following reasons:

• You are diagnosed with a new 9/11-related illness.
• Your condition – for which you have already been awarded compensation – worsens substantially.
• You are disabled from employment due to your 9/11 ailment(s). Proof of disability can be established by a determination from the Social Security Administration, a pension fund, workers’ compensation, and/or a private insurance policy. Of note:
  • Many responders are eligible for pension reclassification if they develop a disabling 9/11 condition like cancer.
  • Many private sector workers collect long-term disability due to a disabling illness.
• Your loved one passed away due to a 9/11 condition. There may be registration deadlines and filing requirements that your family will need to satisfy.

Contact us if you believe you are eligible for an amendment at 911victims.com/amend.

Thousands of our clients have received multiple awards from the VCF after we amended their claim. If you believe you may be eligible for additional compensation through an amendment, contact us.

Because your health may change over time, we are committed to protecting your 9/11 rights today and tomorrow. That is why we tell clients, “we are your attorneys for life.”

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