OVC FY 2026 Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) Victim Compensation Formula Grant

The Victims of Crime Act Victim Compensation Formula Grant is administered by the Office for Victims of Crime within the Office of Justice Programs at the U.S. Department of Justice. This federal program is designed to support state-level victim compensation programs as part of the broader mission to enhance public safety, uphold the rule of law, and protect the rights of crime victims. The Office for Victims of Crime provides leadership and financial resources to assist victims of crime, address violent crime, and support recovery efforts for individuals impacted by criminal activity. The purpose of this funding opportunity is to supplement state efforts in providing financial compensation to victims of crime. These funds are intended to reimburse victims for expenses incurred as a direct result of criminal acts. Eligible uses of funds include covering medical and dental costs, lost wages, dependent care, funeral and burial expenses, and relocation costs. The funding is distributed through a formula based on each state’s prior compensation payouts, specifically reimbursing up to 75 percent of eligible expenses paid out by the state program during the previous two years. This program operates as a formula grant, meaning that eligible applicants do not compete for funding in the traditional sense but instead receive allocations based on statutory criteria. The total anticipated funding for this program is substantial, supporting all eligible state compensation programs across the United States and its territories. Awards are expected to span a 48-month performance period beginning on October 1, 2025, allowing states to plan and administer victim compensation programs over a multi-year timeframe. Eligibility for this opportunity is limited to state governments that operate victim compensation programs. There is no cost sharing or matching requirement associated with this grant, reducing barriers to participation and ensuring that states can fully utilize federal funds to support victims. However, recipients must comply with federal regulations, including civil rights laws and restrictions related to immigration enforcement and allowable uses of funds. The application process involves two required steps. First, applicants must submit the SF-424 form through Grants.gov by July 8, 2026. Second, applicants must complete the full application in the JustGrants system by July 15, 2026. Required components include standard applicant information, financial management documentation, a proposal narrative describing the state’s compensation program, and supporting attachments such as state laws governing the program and statements on administrative fund usage. Notably, a detailed budget is not required for this formula-based funding. Applications are reviewed to ensure completeness, accuracy, and alignment with program goals. Because this is a formula grant, the review process focuses on compliance and eligibility rather than competitive scoring. Award notifications are expected by September 30, 2026. Following award issuance, recipients must comply with reporting requirements, including regular performance reports that demonstrate progress toward program objectives and effective use of funds. The program is issued annually and follows a recurring cycle, with consistent deadlines and processes each year. Applicants are encouraged to begin registration processes early, particularly for SAM.gov, to avoid delays. For assistance, applicants can contact the OJP Response Center via phone or email during standard business hours. This funding opportunity represents a critical federal investment in supporting victims of crime and strengthening state-level response systems.