What Is the DOJ Backpage Remission Process?

On July 31, 2025, the U.S. Department of Justice officially launched the largest-ever victim compensation (remission) process for survivors of sex trafficking. Funded by a $200 million asset forfeiture collected from Backpage.com and its operators, this historic effort is designed to return money to those exploited through the now-defunct site.

Survivors who were trafficked through Backpage between January 1, 2004, and April 6, 2018, and who suffered documentable financial harm, are now eligible to file a claim. The process is being administered by Epiq Global Inc.on behalf of DOJ, and petitions can be submitted through BackpageRemission.com or by mail. The deadline is February 2, 2026.

As one of the nation’s leading law firms representing survivors of sexual abuse and trafficking, Andreozzi + Foote has successfully litigated some of the highest-profile sexual abuse cases of the last decade. 

Why Was The Backpage Fund Created?

1. To hold enablers of trafficking accountable. The DOJ seized profits from Backpage to fund restitution for victims.
2. To deliver justice in a tangible way. This process gives survivors a chance to recover some of what was stolen from them.
3. To promote access and transparency. The process is free, trauma-informed, and rooted in accountability.

How the Remission Process Works

1. Determine eligibility (trafficked via Backpage between 2004–2018, with financial harm).
2. Collect documentation: medical records, relocation costs, therapy bills, lost income, court costs, etc.
3. Submit a petition online or by mail.
4. Deadline: February 2, 2026.
5. Await review and potential compensation from DOJ/Epiq.

Why Legal Representation Matters

Filing a successful claim means more than checking a few boxes. Survivors must submit detailed documentation that clearly supports their claim for financial harm. That’s where trauma-informed legal support becomes essential.

“We’ve represented countless trafficking survivors in civil litigation across the country. We understand how complex these cases are and how retraumatizing this process can be without the right support. Survivors need someone who not only knows the law but knows how to walk with them through it. The Backpage remission process is no exception.”
— Ben Andreozzi, Attorney, Andreozzi + Foote

Trauma-Informed Advocacy from Start to Finish

Sex trafficking is one of the most devastating violations of human dignity. Survivors often endure manipulation, coercion, or violent force that drives them into exploitation, and the psychological impact frequently lasts a lifetime. Consequently, many children and vulnerable adults remain silent traffickers threaten them, make them feel complicit, or instill a deep fear of retaliation for speaking out. For these reasons, countless survivors never get the chance to speak their truth let alone seek justice.

That’s why this remission process matters. While no amount of money can undo the trauma endured, being heard, believed, and compensated can be a powerful part of the healing journey. It offers survivors more than just financial relief; it provides validation, a sense of closure, and an opportunity to reclaim control over their own story. Access to justice is not just a legal right; it’s an essential part of long-term recovery.

At Andreozzi + Foote, we don’t just handle paperwork, we help survivors reclaim their power. Our team:

• Assists with gathering and organizing the required documentation
• Provides a supportive, survivor-centered environment
• Maximizes your chance of receiving the full compensation you deserve
• Guides you through every deadline and procedural detail

Compensated is a Legal Right

If traffickers exploited you or someone you love through Backpage, act now you have rights, you have options, and you don’t have to face this alone. But the clock is ticking. The deadline to apply is February 2, 2026.

Let our team at Andreozzi + Foote help you navigate the remission process with the trauma-informed care and legal expertise you deserve. We’re ready to fight for you just as we’ve done for survivors nationwide.

Resources for Survivors and Families

1. National Human Trafficking Hotline: The hotline provides 24/7 confidential support, resources, and referrals for sex trafficking victims, and accepts tips from the public about suspected trafficking.
2. Polaris: Polaris operates the National Human Trafficking Hotline and provides comprehensive resources, research, and policy advocacy to combat human trafficking.
3. The Blue Campaign: The Blue Campaign, run by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, raises public awareness about human trafficking and provides resources to help identify and report trafficking situations.
4. The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children: NCMEC provides support for missing and exploited children, including those who are human sex trafficking victims. They also offer a CyberTipline for reporting suspected child exploitation.
5. Coalition to Abolish Slavery & Trafficking: CAST provides comprehensive services to trafficking survivors, including emergency shelter, legal advocacy, and social services.
6. National Survivor Network: NSN empowers trafficking survivors by connecting them with resources, support groups, and advocacy opportunities.

You are not alone. Please visit our webpage for more resources and call our offices for a free and confidential case evaluation. 1-866-753-5458