Financial Benefits
Click HERE to access the Financial Benefit application and brochure
Inquiries about the Financial Benefits Program and requests for application forms may be addressed to:
Alberta Solicitor General & Public Security Victims Programs
10th Floor, J.E. Brownlee Building
10365 - 97 Street
Edmonton AB T5J 3W7
Telephone: 780-427-3460
Fax: 780-422-4213
Toll-free through Service Alberta:
dial 310-0000 and then ask for the above number
What are financial benefits?
The Financial Benefits Program recognizes or acknowledges victims who were injured as a direct result of a violent crime in Alberta. It provides direct assistance with a one-time financial benefit based on the severity of the victim's injuries. The benefit amount is set in the regulation to the Act.
Are costs and losses paid?
No. The Financial Benefits Program does not pay compensation for costs or losses. For example, it does not cover property damage, medical expenses, funeral costs, loss of wages or pain and suffering. Victims may seek restitution or take civil action for the recovery of costs or losses from the offender. Information on these processes may be obtained by contacting your nearest victim services program or police service. Information is also available on the Alberta government web site for victims at www.victims.gov.ab.ca
The following are not eligible for benefits:
- individuals who are charged and convicted of an offence as a result of the incident
- secondary victims such as family members of the victim or witnesses to the crime
- victims of motor vehicle or property offenses, such as impaired driving or break and entry
Note: Alberta Justice may provide assistance to injury victims of motor vehicle crimes. Information about this program is available through the Alberta government web site or by calling Motor Vehicle Accident Claims at 780-427-8255.
How do I apply?
Application forms are available from the Financial Benefits Program, through local victim services programs associated with local police services or through the Government of Alberta web site. Although the form is available electronically through the web site, the program requires a paper application with original signatures to obtain the information necessary to verify the application.
What is the process?
In almost all cases, a completed application form is the only information you will need to submit. Financial Benefits Program staff will obtain any necessary police or medical records and reports to verify applications. All decisions on applications will be presented in writing.
How long does it take?
The average time for a decision is about four months, however, since no two applications are the same, this can vary greatly.
Is there a review process?
The Criminal Injuries Review Board is an appointed board with the authority to conduct independent reviews of the financial benefits decisions. The decision letter provided to applicants includes information on the review process.
