While it has been clear for a while now that the 9/11 victims compensation fund would be running out in the near future, the situation may be worse than predicted. Indeed, earlier this year it was predicted that some people may only be receiving 50 to 30 percent of what the previous payments used to be. However, in actuality, some people are suffering full compensation fund cuts, reportedly getting nothing at all.

The 9/11 victims compensation fund was created after the devastating events of the 2001 terrorist attacks to help provide compensation to those wounded or killed, including first responders and other victims.

Originally, the fund operated from 2001–2004. When it became clear that many people had not yet been compensated for their injuries—indeed, many cancers associated with 9/11 take years to surface—the fund was reactivated in October 2011, and continued through 2016. The fund now extends to December 18, 2020.

Congress is trying to extend the fund to support those who may have need after expiration.

On top of the fact that many 9/11 cancers can take years to be diagnosed, the application process itself can take years. While the fund process is complicated for a reason (in order to prevent fraud, as well as to make sure that the compensation money is going to the right people), years of waiting can mean that many who began the application process a long time ago may now be facing these steep cuts in compensation, too.

Cuts in Compensation

Initially, it was announced that cuts to the 9/11 victims compensation fund would mean that people would receive awards of 50 to 70 percent lower than before. But on top of this, the fund has to subtract benefits people have already received for their injuries or illnesses, such as from disability payments or life insurance — and funds are dwindling.

The 50 percent cut is applied to that original award—which means that if the offset is greater than half the portion, their entire VCF award would be cut completely.

John McLean is a former FDNY firefighter who had to retire because of a number of health issues, including breathing problems, According to the New York Daily News, McLean should be eligible for more than $1 million. Because of the other benefits he has received, his check would be about $545,000. But because of the cuts, he is actually being paid only $7,000 from the VCF.

McLean’s story is not unique. Many more like him—firefighters and other first responders—are now getting sick and dying due to exposure to toxins and debris from Ground Zero. The number of first responders who have died because of 9/11-related illnesses is fast surpassing those actually killed on the day of the attacks.

Eligibility for The 9/11 Victims Compensation Fund

Indeed, more than 70 types of cancer have been associated with the 9/11 attacks. Eligible cancers for compensation must have been diagnosed four years or more after exposure (or, in the case of blood and bone cancers, at least one year after exposure).

If you or someone you love were diagnosed with cancer after exposure to Ground Zero in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, before May 31, 2002, you may be eligible to receive compensation in the form of a substantial cash payout from the 9/11 victims compensation fund. Compensation varies widely, and can range from hundreds of thousands of dollars to even millions.

Of course, nothing can take away the pain and suffering caused by 9/11 cancer or bring a loved one back to life, but it can at least help to alleviate the financial burden incurred by medical expenses, lost wages, and more.