Last Updated on: 20th October 2023, 09:21 am

How to Get Restitution if You’re a Victim of Federal Fraud or Theft

Being the victim of fraud or theft can be a scary and frustrating experience. Not only did someone steal from you, but trying to get your money back can be confusing and seem impossible.

If the theft happened through a federal program or agency, there are steps you can take to get restitution. Restitution is when the criminal has to pay back what they stole from you. This article will explain how to get restitution if you are the victim of federal fraud or theft.

File a Police Report

In addition to reporting it to the agency involved, you should also file a report with your local police department. This creates an official record of the crime, which can help with getting restitution later. Bring any evidence you have, like bank records, emails, or receipts. The more proof you have, the better.

Contact Your Bank

If the theft involved your bank account, credit card, or other financial accounts, be sure to contact your bank right away too. They can freeze accounts and reverse fraudulent transactions in some cases. The sooner you report it, the better chance you have of getting your money back from the bank directly.

Request Restitution

Once the criminal is convicted, you can formally request restitution. The judge will order restitution as part of sentencing. You’ll have to provide documentation like bank records, receipts, bills, or appraisals to prove the amount you lost. Medical records or counseling statements can help show non-financial impacts.

Write an official victim impact statement explaining how the crime affected you financially and emotionally. Describe the specific losses and how having the money returned would help you recover. The judge will consider this when deciding on restitution.

Seek Additional Compensation

Restitution from the criminal is one option, but you may also be able to get compensation from other sources:

• State victim compensation funds – these programs can reimburse some losses related to violent crimes.
• Civil lawsuit – you may be able to sue the perpetrator or negligent third parties.
• Insurance claims – if you have coverage like fraud insurance or identity theft policies.
• Tax deductions – you may be able to claim theft losses on your taxes.
• Credit monitoring – your bank or credit card company may cover monitoring services.

Talk to a lawyer to understand all your options. You may be able to recover additional compensation beyond just the criminal restitution.

Be Persistent and Patient

The process of getting restitution takes time. It could be months or even years before you get repaid. The court system isn’t always fast. But don’t give up! Keep filing paperwork, calling agencies, and fighting to get your money returned. It can feel like an uphill battle, but staying persistent is key.

Getting help from a lawyer and victim advocate can make it much easier to navigate the system. Don’t be afraid to lean on family and friends for emotional support too. Dealing with fraud or theft can be draining, so make sure to take care of yourself throughout the process.

With concerted effort, there’s a good chance you can get your stolen money back through restitution. Don’t lose hope. Keep pursuing every option and eventually your hard work should pay off. Getting repaid won’t erase what happened, but it can provide some closure and justice.