If you’re an eligible responder or survivor who suffered a health condition due to the toxins in the post-9/11 dust cloud, you may be entitled to a monetary award from the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund. Since the VCF’s claim filing process can be complex and difficult to navigate, it’s important to have a VCF attorney by your side. Not only can they guide you through the registration and claims process, but they can also help to maximize the compensation that can be awarded to you.
A VCF attorney can help maximize your compensation in the following ways:
1. A VCF Attorney Will Know How to Evaluate Your Case
A VCF attorney will know how to thoroughly evaluate your case and avoid any pitfalls that could arise. They will be able to determine your eligibility and assess the extent of the damages you suffered to determine the amount of compensation to which you’re entitled. In addition, they can help you prove the losses you incurred in connection with your 9/11-related health condition.
2. A VCF Attorney Can Help You Gather the Documentation You Need
Every VCF claim requires a significant amount of documentation when you submit your initial claim. A VCF attorney will know what documents must be provided to the VCF for processing your claim, to show proof of presence, and to increase your economic and non-economic loss compensation. They will also know what documents are necessary to support a claim for:
- Replacement services loss
- Future replacement services
- Loss of past earnings
- Loss of future earnings
- Pension loss
- Health care benefits loss
Similarly, in deceased claims, a VCF attorney can ensure the personal representative has the documents needed to move forward with the claim.
3. A VCF Attorney Will Understand How the VCF Values Economic and Non-Economic Loss
A VCF award for economic loss is based on the monetary losses you suffered because of your 9/11-related illness. The severity of your eligible health condition determines an award for non-economic loss. A VCF attorney will have a deep understanding of the economic losses you should be awarded in your claim — and ensure they are all accounted for. They will also know how to maximize your compensation for non-economic loss. Critically, a VCF attorney will be aware of the VCF’s procedures and when the Special Master may exceed the statutory cap for non-economic loss.
4. A VCF Attorney Can Handle Any Appeals or Amendments
Sometimes, VCF claims are calculated in error, and you might be eligible for additional compensation not included in your award. If you believe you should have been entitled to more compensation than you were awarded, a VCF attorney can assess your claim to determine whether an appeal or amendment should be filed and help you collect any supporting documentation. They can also represent your interests at a VCF appeal hearing and help you adequately prepare to increase your chances of success.
5. A VCF Attorney Can Reduce the Risk of Delay or Denial in Your Claim
An attorney who focuses on VCF claims will be familiar with the intricacies of the claims process — and know how to reduce the risk of your claim being delayed or denied. They will understand the applicable deadlines and can help ensure you satisfy the VCF’s strict requirements. Importantly, a VCF attorney can ensure you have the guidance and peace of mind you need as you file a claim.
Contact an Experienced New York City 9/11 VCF Attorney
If you are an eligible 9/11 responder or survivor, you may be entitled to file a claim with the VCF. An experienced VCF attorney can walk with you every step of the way and work to maximize the compensation you deserve. The 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund attorneys at The Dearie Law Firm, P.C., have represented claimants and their families in 9/11 VCF claims for over a decade. For a free consultation, contact us today.