How long do I have to apply?
For most applications, the deadline depends on when the crime occurred.
- Before January 1, 2024: the Government of BC says the application usually must be received within one year of the crime.
- On or after January 1, 2024: the usual deadline is two years from the crime.
- For a person under 19, the time-limit rules are extended. The government explains that the time limit does not begin until age 19.
- There is no time limit for a victim's application involving specified childhood sexual misconduct or an offence that is or includes sexual assault. Family-member applications remain subject to a time limit.
- CVAP may extend a deadline when satisfied the application could not reasonably have been made in time.
Do police have to lay charges first?
No. You do not have to wait for charges or a conviction before applying.
CVAP may ask for information needed to verify what happened. The Act allows benefits whether or not anyone is prosecuted. Reporting and cooperation can affect a decision, subject to the law and the circumstances assessed by CVAP.
What if insurance or another program may pay?
CVAP is generally a payer of last resort.
The official program says claims should first be made to other sources that can cover the same or similar service or expense, such as extended health insurance. CVAP may consider eligible costs that remain. Other payments can be deducted from a CVAP benefit.