In order to navigate the rules governing registration for death claims under the World Trade Center Victims Compensation Fund (VCF), you might want to consult an lawyer with experience working with the VCF.
The good news for sufferers is the deadlines have been extended under certain circumstances. According to the VCF FAQ page:
We revised the policy because we recognized that an individual may have been diagnosed with a physical injury or condition, but may not necessarily have been aware that the physical injury or condition was related to their 9/11 exposure.
Although this is good news, the conditions and qualifications are specific and must be met with proper documentation.
According to the VCF Claims FAQ Website, the rules state:
Deceased claims are claims seeking compensation for losses incurred for a death that was the result of a 9/11-related physical injury or condition. For these claims, the registration deadline is two years from the date of death. This deadline does not change based on whether (or when) any government entity or individual determined that the cause of death was 9/11-related.
A deceased claim may be filed even in cases where the personal injury claim is untimely, so long as the deceased claim is registered within two years of the date of death. A Personal Representative may not, however, initiate a personal injury claim that would have been untimely if filed by the victim.
Note: The VCF considers a claim a deceased claim only if the victim’s cause of death was a 9/11-related physical injury or condition. If a victim has died due to an injury or condition that is not related to 9/11, the claim is considered a personal injury claim for purposes of the VCF program.
With extensive experience in WTC/911 Cancer and Death claims, we can help you establish your qualifications for compensation under the rules of the fund.
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