Survivors of the notorious Backpage trafficking scandal are set to receive critical financial support through a groundbreaking $200 million compensation program. The Department of Justice has established a comprehensive claims process that allows survivors to receive compensation for medical expenses, health treatments, and lost wages.

The claims process is designed to be trauma-informed and accessible, recognizing the complex challenges survivors face when documenting their experiences. Survivors can submit claims by February 2, 2026, using various forms of documentation including emails, text messages, screenshots, and advertisements related to their trafficking experiences.

Compensation covers a wide range of expenses, from out-of-pocket medical costs like dental treatments and tattoo removals to future medical needs. Mental health support is also a priority, with the fund covering counseling, therapy, substance use treatment, and alternative behavioral health interventions.

Lost wages can be claimed with approximate dates and times, acknowledging the difficulty survivors might have in precisely documenting their experiences. However, the fund will not provide compensation for pain and suffering, despite recognizing the profound trauma survivors have endured.

To verify eligibility, survivors are encouraged to provide information such as aliases, email addresses, phone numbers, and any details about traffickers. Those who have previously received compensation from Backpage or through other lawsuits must also disclose this information.

For survivors seeking immediate help or additional resources, the National Human Trafficking Hotline remains available at 1-888-373-7888. Survivors can also contact the claims administrator, Epiq Global, at 1-888-859-9206 for domestic inquiries or 1-971-316-5053 for international calls.

This compensation fund represents a significant step toward acknowledging and supporting survivors of human trafficking, offering hope and practical support for those who have endured unimaginable hardship.