A CICA claim is made to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority, a UK government body that compensates victims of violent crime.
You can apply directly through the GOV.UK online portal. However, CICA caseworkers assess claims against the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme 2012 and the tariff of injuries. This means a claim can be undervalued if the evidence isn’t strong enough or the wrong tariff band is used.
At Injury Lawyers 4u, our specialist solicitors manage the full process for you. We make sure your injuries are properly evidenced and your claim reflects what you’re entitled to.
This guide explains exactly how to make a CICA claim and what happens next.
What you need before you apply
Before a CICA application is submitted, the key information and evidence need to be in place.
This is where many claims run into difficulty. A case might seem straightforward, but missing documents or weak evidence can lead to delays, low offers or refusal later on.
That’s why we focus on building the claim properly from the start.
Pre-application checklist
You’ll usually need:
- A police crime reference number confirming the incident was reported
- Medical records or other evidence showing your injuries
- Your National Insurance number
- Details of any financial losses, like lost earnings or treatment costs
- If the claim is for a child, proof that you are the parent or legal guardian
The police reference number is especially important. In most cases, if the incident wasn’t reported as soon as reasonably practicable, the claim may be refused unless there are exceptional circumstances.
The scheme also expects you to cooperate with the police and with CICA during the process.
If you reported the crime but don’t have the reference number, it can usually be obtained. If you didn’t report the incident, it’s important to get advice before taking the next step, as only limited exceptions apply.
The CICA claims process, step by step
If you’re searching for how to make a CICA claim, here’s how the process usually works.
With Injury Lawyers 4u, we handle each stage for you and reduce the risk of mistakes.
1. Contact us
When you get in touch, you’ll start with a free initial consultation. We assess eligibility, explain your options and give an early view of the likely tariff band for your injuries.
2. Gather evidence
We identify what evidence is needed, request medical records and help document any financial losses.
This stage is critical. Many low initial offers happen because the medical evidence isn’t complete when the application is submitted.
3. Submit the application
We submit the claim through the CICA online portal.
Completing the form is only part of the process. What matters most is whether the claim is supported by the right evidence from the outset.
4. CICA assessment
A caseworker reviews the claim, checks police information and considers your injuries against the tariff.
CICA may request further information or arrange additional medical evidence before making a decision.
5. Initial decision
CICA will either make an offer or refuse the claim.
We review that decision carefully. An offer isn’t automatically correct just because it’s been issued.
6. Accept or challenge
If the offer is fair, you can accept it.
If it’s too low or the claim has been refused, we can request a review and, if needed, take the case to appeal.
7. Payment
Once the award is agreed, payment is made. We handle the final steps so everything is completed properly.
You won’t have to manage this alone. We keep you updated and deal with CICA on your behalf, so you’re not left chasing progress or interpreting technical responses.
What evidence does CICA need?
Evidence is central to any CICA claim. It’s also where many applications fall short.
Police report or crime reference number
This is usually the single most important document. CICA checks whether the incident was reported and whether there was proper cooperation with the police. Without this, a claim will be refused in most cases.
Medical evidence
This can include:
- GP records
- Hospital records
- Mental health records
- Psychiatric or psychological assessments
CICA may also arrange an independent medical assessment if more detail is needed.
Medical evidence is important because your compensation depends on how your injury is matched to the tariff. If the records don’t clearly show the severity or duration, the award may be lower than it should be.
Proof of financial losses
If you are claiming loss of earnings or special expenses, you might need:
- Payslips
- Employer letters
- Tax records
- Receipts or invoices for treatment or care costs
These parts of the scheme have specific rules. They must meet specific criteria and be properly evidenced.
Your account of the crime
In some cases, you may be asked to provide a statement explaining what happened and how it affected you.
We can help obtain medical and police records on your behalf. A strong claim isn’t just about applying. It’s about presenting the right evidence clearly from the start.
What happens if CICA makes a low offer?
An initial decision isn’t always the final outcome.
If the award is too low or the claim is refused, you can challenge it.
- The first step is a review by CICA
- If needed, you can then appeal to the First-tier Tribunal
Appeals must usually be made within 90 days of the review decision.
These stages can be more technical, especially at tribunal level. We handle this process for you, so you’re not left to argue complex points alone.
Why choose Injury Lawyers 4u instead of applying directly?
You can apply yourself through GOV.UK. That’s the official route.
But the application form is only one part of the process. It doesn’t tell you:
- Whether your evidence is strong enough
- Whether your injury has been placed in the correct tariff band
- Whether a refusal should be challenged
Here’s why many people choose to work with us:
- CICA applies the rules
Its role is to assess claims, not to maximise your compensation. The responsibility for presenting the claim properly sits with the applicant. - The tariff is complex
Multiple injuries and psychological claims can be difficult to categorise correctly. - Weak evidence causes problems
Claims with limited evidence are often undervalued or refused. Fixing this later is possible, but harder. - Experience makes a difference
We know what evidence carries weight and how to present it clearly. - No win, no fee reduces financial risk
There’s no upfront cost, and you only pay if your claim succeeds. Terms apply.
The aim isn’t to take control away from you. It’s to make sure the process is handled properly from the moment you decide to make a claim.
Start a CICA claim with Injury Lawyers 4u
Contact us for a free initial consultation. We’ll assess your eligibility, explain your options and help you understand what your claim could be worth.
If you choose to go ahead, we’ll handle the process on a no win, no fee basis.
You don’t have to do this alone. We’re here to help.
How to make a CICA claim FAQs
Can I make a CICA claim myself without a solicitor?
Yes, you can apply directly through the GOV.UK portal. However, CICA claims can be more complex than they first appear. Evidence, tariff banding and appeal rights all matter, so using a solicitor can help you secure the correct outcome.
What happens if I have already applied directly to CICA and been refused?
You may still be able to challenge the decision. Reviews and appeals have strict deadlines, so it’s important to act quickly. In most cases, a tribunal appeal must be made within 90 days of the review decision.
Do I need to attend a medical examination for a CICA claim?
Possibly. CICA may arrange an independent medical assessment if more information is needed. If this happens, it’s important your medical history and symptoms are clearly explained.
Is there a CICA claims form?
Applications are usually made online through the GOV.UK portal rather than a paper form. If you choose to use a solicitor, they can complete and submit the application on your behalf.