I’m A Downtown Parent Who Wants To File A VCF Claim For My Child. What Do I Do?

For the most part, anybody over the age of 18 is responsible for filing and own claim. This question, however, often comes up in two contexts. We’ll cover both.

Parents of an Adult Looking to File a New Claim:

Because the attacks of 9/11 happened over 18 years ago, it’s likely the “child” in question is already a legal adult and would therefore be responsible for filing their own claim. Understandably, however, many people want or need their parents’ assistance with the WTC Health Program application and their VCF claims, especially since the health, school, and residency records the program requires may be from when they were a minor.

Adults who were children during the attacks of 9/11 can authorize the VCF to share information about the claim with a parent by adding the parent as an “Alternative Contact” on the claim form. This allows the VCF to communicate with the parent about the claim.  The adult child may also grant the parent online access to the claim portal in the VCF claims system.  

In most cases, parents should not be listed on the claim form as an “Authorized Representative,” as this designation is only applicable to parents or guardians of minor children, Personal Representatives of deceased individuals, and guardians of incapacitated adults. 

If your child is incapacitated or deceased and you want to file a claim on their behalf, you would do so as an “Authorized Representative” and provide proof of your relationship to them. In the case of a parent, the VCF requires an original or certified copy of the child or family member’s birth certificate. In addition, there are specific requirements when parents share legal custody of the child, when one parent has custody, or when a guardian is involved. 

Parents of an Adult Looking to Amend an Existing Claim:

Once the minor child turns 18, unless he or she is deemed incapacitated, he or she must assume ownership of a previously-filed claim. If a claim has already been filed on their behalf, the VCF will send a letter to the now-adult child explaining the steps they will need to take in order for the VCF to continue processing the claim.

Children who need to assume ownership of their claims can also contact the VCF directly to discuss the proper next steps. The VCF can help add a parent as an Alternative Contact and ensure the appropriate people continue to have online access to the claim.