How to file a Victim Compensation Fund claim
The Zadroga Act gives 9/11 victims and their representatives the right to file compensation claims with the VCF. You must submit claim forms, among other documentation for processing Zadroga claims. This can include deceased, person injury, compensation and eligibility claim forms, as well as the private physician packet.
Do I need to hire a Zadroga Act attorney?
You can pursue compensation on your own. However, it is important to seek legal help. As seen above, the procedure for filing VCF claims can be complex. You must meet stringent deadlines and support your claim with documentation. Given the changes that have taken place with the Zadroga act renewal, additional Zadroga act covered conditions, among other changes, filing claims can be a daunting task.
What’s more, the VCF doesn’t always issue favorable awards. You need legal help to appeal successfully. A Zadroga Act lawyer can help you secure the Zadroga act benefits you deserve, including recovering past out-of-pocket medical expenses related to 9/11 injuries or ailments. Given the finality of accepting an award and the complexity of the Zadroga 9 11 health bill, the importance of having a lawyer throughout the process can’t be overlooked.
Renewal of Victim Compensation’s Fund
The September 11th Victim Compensation Fund has officially been renewed — permanently.
Under the newly signd bill, $10.2 billion will be authorized for the Fund for the next 10 years, then additional billions until 2090, essentially covering the surviving 9/11 responders for the rest of their lives.
Who is eligible for Zadroga Act Claims?
Victims of 9/11 attacks can file a claim. Alternatively, a parent, guardian, or representative can file a claim on behalf of a victim, whether the victim is alive or deceased. To enjoy benefits under the Zadroga Act & the VCF, three main requirements must be met based on location, data, and condition.
To be eligible for compensation, 9/11 survivors or deceased victims must have been within (worked, lived or attended school/day-care facilities) within a specific location – NYC Exposure Zone or any of the other sites on one or more dates between 11th September 2001 and 30th May 2002
What conditions are covered under Zadroga act?
Conditions covered include, but aren’t limited to:
- Cancer: In case you are wondering what cancers have been covered by the Zadroga Act, cancer of the blood, respiratory system, eyes, thyroid, digestive system, urinary system, breast, head and neck, skin, female reproductive organs and lymphoid tissue (including leukemia, myeloma, and lymphoma) are all covered. Mesothelioma is also covered – cancer that affects the tissue layer covering many internal organs, among other rare cancers. In total, the Zadroga act covers over 70 types of cancers.
- Acute traumatic injury: Burns, head trauma, fractures, and complex sprains are also covered
- Aerodigestive Disorders: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, interstitial lung diseases, asthma, chronic cough syndrome, GERD or sleep apnea linked to any of these conditions
- Musculoskeletal disorders: First responders who suffer from lower back pain and carpal tunnel syndrome are also covered.
Here’s a more conclusive list of illnesses covered under the Zadroga act.
If you/a loved one is suffering from a 9/11-related physical injury or illness, there is more time to seek compensation for lost wages in the past and future under the Zadroga Act.