Although first responders and others who worked or volunteered at Ground Zero following the 9/11 terrorist attacks and developed cancer may be eligible for compensation through the 9/11 victims compensation fund, it may be difficult for some victims to prove their eligibility.

What Is the 9/11 Victims Compensation Fund?

The 9/11 Victims Compensation Fund was created soon after the September 11 terrorist attacks in order to provide compensation for victims who were injured in the aftermath. Over the past two decades, the fund has been extended and re-funded several times. In 2019 the fund was expected to run dry, but instead was extended and funded until 2090 so that all victims of the attacks could have the opportunity to apply for compensation. Eligible victims or their families who pursue compensation may be awarded up to several hundred thousand dollars. However, in order to receive a settlement sum, applicants must be able to submit proof that they were in the vicinity of the attacks and have suffered from health consequences as a result.

One volunteer who helped with the clean up after the attacks and subsequently went on to become an NYPD Auxiliary Officer spoke with NBC New York about his experience attempting to prove that he had been in the vicinity of Ground Zero. Michael D. developed skin cancer following his exposure to toxins released by the destruction of the towers. However, in order to receive compensation through a 9/11 cancer claim, he needed to prove that he had been exposed to the air and dust near Ground Zero.

As the administrators of the 9/11 compensation fund are on the alert for fake or fraudulent claims, victims often need proof such as eye witness testimony, photos or videos, or bills, records, or pay stubs showing that they lived, went to school, or worked near the site of the attacks. After struggling to find evidence supporting his claims, Michael eventually located an interview he had done with News 4 New York the day after the attacks. This video interview was enough to prove that he had been near the site of the attacks and qualified him for compensation to cover some of the costs of his cancer treatments.

However, stage four skin cancer is a serious disease, and Michael died in November 2020 due to the condition. Although a payout from the 9/11 compensation fund may help victims in covering the costs of their medical bills at any stage of their condition, qualifying for the fund as soon as you are eligible may make it easier for victims to afford the best medical treatment available.

Who Qualifies for a 9/11 Cancer Claim?

Many people may qualify for compensation through the fund. In order to qualify, you must have been near enough to the site of the attacks in the months following September 11 to have been exposed to toxins and dust that were released. You must also have been diagnosed with a qualifying condition due to this exposure. In addition to first responders including firefighters, police officers, and volunteers, people who lived, worked, or went to school near the World Trade Center may qualify. City workers, sanitation workers, construction workers, and others who were present near Ground Zero between Sept. 11, 2001 and May 31, 2002 may qualify.

Conditions that qualify victims for coverage through the fund vary, and include many types of cancers, respiratory disorders, and other injuries. These conditions must have been diagnosed after a set period of time following the exposure to 9/11 related toxins.

Filing a claim with the 9/11 cancer victims fund may be complicated and confusing. Having an experienced attorney at your side may make navigating the 9/11 cancer claim application process easier and less stressful. An experienced attorney can ensure that you submit all of the information you need by the deadlines, and may make it more likely for you to receive the compensation you deserve.