Thousands of survivors trafficked through Backpage.com may now qualify for financial compensation through a Department of Justice settlement. The federal government has created a $200 million victim remission fund—the largest ever established for human trafficking survivors connected to an online platform. This guide covers eligibility, compensation, deadlines, and how to file confidentially with trusted legal support.
Overview
The Department of Justice (DOJ) is distributing forfeited Backpage assets to survivors through a formal remission program. Claims are confidential and do not require public testimony. InjuryClaims.com and The Driscoll Firm help survivors compile strong petitions and submit them on time.
Who Qualifies for a Backpage Claim?
- You were sex trafficked and your exploitation was connected to ads posted on Backpage.com.
- The trafficking occurred between January 1, 2004 and April 6, 2018.
- You experienced financial losses such as medical bills, housing costs, lost income, counseling, or funeral expenses.
- You’re filing for yourself, or as a legal representative/estate of a deceased victim.
You do not need to have filed a police report or been part of a criminal case. Claims are confidential.
What Happened With Backpage.com?
Backpage.com operated for 14 years as one of the largest online classified sites for commercial sex advertisements. In 2018, the federal government seized the platform after years of investigations into its role in facilitating sex trafficking, including the trafficking of minors. Executives were later convicted of offenses including conspiring to promote prostitution and trafficking, facilitating illegal commercial sex through interstate commerce, and laundering profits. The site’s profits and assets were forfeited to compensate victims.
DOJ Settlement & Remission Fund
- Program launch: December 2024.
- Fund size: Over $200 million in forfeited assets.
- Administrator: Epiq Global on behalf of the DOJ.
- Filing deadline: February 2, 2026.
- Purpose: Distribute compensation for eligible out-of-pocket losses linked to trafficking.
InjuryClaims.com and The Driscoll Firm are working directly with survivors to ensure petitions are complete and properly submitted.
What Compensation Is Available?
Eligible, documented losses may include:
- Medical or mental health treatment
- Relocation or housing expenses
- Lost income or missed work due to exploitation
- Counseling or trauma therapy
- Funeral costs in wrongful death cases
- Other out-of-pocket losses directly tied to trafficking events
Each petition is individually reviewed by the DOJ Remission Administrator.
How the Filing Process Works
- Free, confidential consultation: We privately review your situation and assess eligibility.
- Evidence collection & documentation: We help gather records (therapy bills, relocation costs, wage-loss documentation, etc.).
- Petition preparation & filing: We submit your petition to Epiq Global and respond to any follow-up requests.
- Compensation decision: DOJ reviews your petition and determines eligibility and award. Approved funds are paid to you or your legal representative.
No upfront costs: You owe nothing unless your claim is successful.
Why Use The Driscoll Firm?
- Experience with high-profile victim compensation programs
- Compassionate, confidential survivor support
- Handles all DOJ communications and documentation
- Helps meet deadlines and present strong evidence
InjuryClaims.com partners with The Driscoll Firm to make this support available nationwide.
Key Deadlines & Next Steps
- File by: February 2, 2026
- Start early: Gathering documentation can take time—begin now for a complete, timely submission.
Start your free claim review now. There is no cost to get started, and your privacy is protected.
FAQs
Do I need to know who posted the ad on Backpage?
No. If you were trafficked through an ad posted on the site during the covered period, you may still qualify.
Do I need to have reported the trafficking to police?
No. A criminal report is not required for eligibility.
What losses can be compensated?
Medical expenses, therapy, lost wages, relocation, funeral costs, and other out-of-pocket losses related to exploitation.
Can I file for someone who passed away?
Yes. Legal representatives or estates may file claims for deceased victims.
Will my identity be kept private?
Yes. Your information is handled with confidentiality and sensitivity at every stage.
Is there any cost to file?
No. There are no upfront costs. InjuryClaims.com and The Driscoll Firm are only paid if you receive compensation.
Sources
- U.S. Department of Justice — Backpage.com Remission Process
- DOJ Press Release (July 2025)
Get a Free, Confidential Claim Review
Answer a few questions to see if you qualify for compensation through the Backpage settlement. No upfront fees. Your privacy is protected.
Information is educational, not legal advice.
