CICA Application Checklist

The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority runs a government-funded scheme that pays victims of violent crime without them having to sue anyone. It is free to apply, there is no hearing, and no conviction is needed — but the scheme has specific evidence requirements and one of the shortest time limits in this area, running from the incident rather than from the end of any criminal case. Missing information is a common reason for delay and refusal. Use this checklist before you apply.

Apply now, gather evidence as you go

The scheme has one of the shortest time limits in this area, and it runs from the incident rather than from the end of any criminal case. That is why the single most important thing is to apply within the limit and tell the authority that proceedings or treatment are ongoing — they will hold the application rather than reject it. Waiting until you have every medical report is how people miss the deadline entirely.

  • Police reference: the scheme expects the incident to have been reported to the police without delay and for you to have co-operated with the investigation. Get the crime reference number first.
  • Medical evidence: the authority usually obtains records itself with your consent, so you do not need to commission reports. Give accurate details of every treating GP, hospital and therapist.
  • Financial loss: if you are claiming lost earnings or care costs, keep payslips, fit notes and receipts from the start.

Be straightforward about your own history. The scheme can reduce or refuse an award because of unspent convictions or because of the applicant's conduct at the time, and it will check. A disclosed history is handled far better than one that surfaces later.

The application is free and there is no hearing. Do not pay a claims firm a percentage of an award you can apply for yourself, and use a victim support service instead if you need help.

Essential documents

0 of 4 complete

Supporting evidence

0 of 4 complete

Personal details to disclose

0 of 3 complete

Helpful organisations

Citizens Advice

Charity

Provides free, confidential, and independent advice on a wide range of issues including benefits, housing, debt, and employment.

Visit website0800 144 8848

Frequently asked questions

Can I apply if nobody was ever charged?
Yes. The scheme does not require a conviction or even an identified offender — it applies its own test to decide whether a crime of violence occurred, using the civil standard of proof. What it does require is that you reported the incident to the police as soon as reasonably practicable and co-operated with the investigation. A case that was dropped, or where the suspect was acquitted, can still result in an award, because the criminal standard of proof is much higher.
What if the incident happened years ago?
Apply and explain the delay. The scheme has discretion to accept late applications in defined circumstances, most commonly where the applicant was a child at the time, or where the effects of the crime — including psychological injury — made it unreasonable to expect an earlier application. Historic abuse cases are specifically contemplated. Set out clearly why the application could not have been made sooner and what evidence supports the account now.
How long does a decision take, and can I get money sooner?
Decisions commonly take many months, largely because the authority waits for medical evidence and for any criminal proceedings to conclude before assessing the injury. Interim payments are possible in some circumstances where liability is not in doubt but the final value cannot yet be assessed, so ask if you are in financial difficulty. Keep your contact details up to date, respond promptly to requests for information, and chase if a stated timescale passes.
What can I do if my application is refused or the award seems too low?
Ask for a review within the time limit stated in the decision, setting out what you disagree with and providing any further evidence. If the review does not resolve it, you can appeal to the First-tier Tribunal, which considers the case independently. Victim support services and some law centres can help you prepare, and there is no fee. Do not simply accept a tariff award you believe is wrong — the review process exists precisely for that.

Related guides

CICA Criminal Injuries Compensation

If you have been physically or psychologically injured as the result of a violent crime in Great Britain, you may be able to claim compensation from the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA). The scheme is funded by the government and does not depend on the offender being caught or convicted. Awards range from £1,000 to £500,000 depending on the nature and severity of your injuries.

10 min

Victims' Code Rights

The Victims' Code (formally the Code of Practice for Victims of Crime) sets out the minimum level of service that criminal justice agencies — including the police, Crown Prosecution Service, courts, and probation service — must provide to victims of crime in England and Wales. The 2024 edition of the Code was updated to strengthen victims' rights and improve accountability.

8 min

Action Fraud Reporting and Recovery

Action Fraud is the UK's national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime, operated by the City of London Police. Reporting fraud is the first step towards a police investigation and towards recovering money. You should also report to your bank as quickly as possible — banks have fraud prevention teams and can sometimes reverse fraudulent transactions.

8 min

Disclaimer

This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Always check official sources and seek qualified help where needed.