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Victim of a violent crime? You have a right to compensation

Anyone who was physically or emotionally harmed by a violent crime is not alone. The state offers victims of violence social compensation, from medical treatment to pensions. No criminal proceedings are needed for this.

Reach your next steps and the matching ready-made texts in just a few minutes, free of charge:

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Your chances of getting your money back

Victims of an intentional violent crime (and their surviving dependents) have a right to social compensation benefits (SGB XIV, which replaced the former Victim Compensation Act), such as medical treatment, services at trauma outpatient clinics, and, in the case of lasting consequences, compensation payments.
You do not have to solve the crime yourself; compensation can be granted even without a conviction of the perpetrator. What matters is a report or credible substantiation of the crime and a timely application.

What you should do now

  1. 1

    1. Document the crime

    Secure medical certificates, the police report, and witnesses; record the consequences (including emotional ones).

  2. 2

    2. File the application

    File the application with the responsible social compensation authority (usually at the state level).

  3. 3

    3. Use quick help

    Trauma outpatient clinics offer early psychotherapeutic acute help.

  4. 4

    4. Get advice

    Victim support organizations (e.g. the WEISSE RING) and counseling centers help free of charge.

Frequently asked questions

Who is entitled to victim compensation?

People who suffered health harm through an intentional, unlawful violent crime, and in some circumstances surviving dependents. The benefits are now governed by SGB XIV (social compensation), which replaced the Victim Compensation Act, from medical treatment to compensation payments.

Does the perpetrator have to be convicted?

No. A conviction is not a requirement; even if the perpetrator remains unknown or is not convicted, compensation can be granted. What matters is credible substantiation of the crime (e.g. through a report and medical certificates) and a timely application to the responsible authority. Victim support offices help with this.

Take action now

We put together the ready-made texts and the right places to contact for you.

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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.