Financial Grant (Compensation Payments) from the Bavarian Victim Support Foundation

Since January 1, 2010, the Victim Support Foundation Bavaria has provided one-time financial grants to individuals who have become victims of a criminal offense in Bavaria, as well as to close relatives who have suffered particular disadvantages as a result of the offense. Provided that neither perpetrators nor social security systems provide adequate compensation, material expenses and non-material damages (compensation for pain and suffering) are compensated in an uncomplicated manner. The applicant’s residence at the time of the offense must have been in Bavaria or the offense must have been committed in Bavaria. A means test ensures that only those in financial distress who have not received compensation claims against perpetrators, social insurance, or victim compensation law are supported.

At the foundation’s discretion, one-time payments of up to €10,000 may be granted; in urgent cases, immediate assistance of up to €1,000 is possible. The assessment is based on equity criteria as well as urgency and emergency need. Applications can be submitted at any time and must include a completed application form, a comprehensible justification of the criminal offense, evidence of the economic situation, as well as documentation of the extent of damages incurred and benefits already received. These documents enable the foundation to make a timely decision and help to quickly alleviate financial hardship for those affected.