Compensation Claims for 9/11 First Responders

As the first to arrive at the 9/11 disaster, firefighters, police officers, EMTs, construction workers, and volunteers were exposed to the most intense toxic dust and smoke and hazardous conditions that have made thousands of the responders sick, including with cancer. 

The September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) and the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) were established by Congress as part of the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act to provide them with the financial and medical support they need and deserve. If you or a loved one served as a 9/11 first responder and are now facing health issues related to your service, such as a breathing or digestive issue or any type of cancer, you may be eligible for financial compensation and no-cost medical monitoring and care.

Health Conditions Common for First Responders Following 9/11

The toxic environment in downtown Manhattan and other crash sites has been linked to a wide range of physical and mental health issues. Some of the most common health conditions among first responders include:

• Over 76 types of cancer, including lung, prostate, thyroid, and skin cancer
• Respiratory illnesses such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and chronic rhinosinusitis
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Mental health disorders such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression

Because of the severity and long-term impact of these conditions, it's important for first responders to understand their rights and resources, and to seek ongoing health screenings to ensure early diagnosis of any 9/11-related health conditions.

Support Available for 9/11 First Responders

First responders affected by 9/11-related conditions are eligible for financial compensation through the Victim Compensation Fund and for medical monitoring and treatment through the WTC Health Program.

Victim Compensation Fund (VCF)

The VCF provides tax-free monetary compensation for economic and non-economic losses due to 9/11-related physical health conditions. This includes:

• Lost wages and benefits
• Losses related to pain and suffering
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket medical expenses (in some cases)

The VCF is available to first responders who were present at 9/11 crash sites, worked along the routes of debris removal or at the Fresh Kills Landfill, or worked in the exposure zone between September 11, 2001, and May 30, 2002. If a responder has passed away from a 9/11-related condition, a personal representative of the deceased individual may file a wrongful death claim on their behalf.

World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP)

The WTCHP offers free medical monitoring and treatment for certified 9/11-related health conditions. Administered by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), this program covers both physical and mental health conditions.

To qualify, first responders must provide proof of their presence in the exposure zone and be diagnosed with a condition covered by the WTCHP. Once certified, members receive ongoing screenings and healthcare at no cost.

How Our 9/11 Attorneys Can Help 9/11 First Responders

Navigating the requirements of the VCF and WTCHP can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with serious health concerns. Our dedicated 9/11 attorneys have helped thousands of responders secure the compensation and care they deserve. Here's how we can help:

• Determine your eligibility to file a claim with the VCF 
• Register with WTCHP and obtain certification of your 9/11-related illness
• Gather and submit necessary documentation, including proof of presence, medical records, and financial records
• File and track claims
• Appeal denials or incorrect award determinations
• File amendments for worsened conditions or additional losses
• Ensure you receive the maximum award for your individual circumstances

We work with first responders and their families to ensure they receive every benefit available under the law.