Vaccine Injury Compensation Program
Learn how the federal Vaccine Injury Table changes the way causation and timing may be evaluated in a VICP claim.
A few important reminders
Plain-language answers
On-table means the claimed injury, vaccine, and onset period match an entry in the applicable Vaccine Injury Table. When the requirements are met, the petitioner may rely on a statutory presumption of causation instead of proving causation in the same way as an off-table claim.
Off-table means the injury or timing does not match an applicable Table entry. It is not automatically barred, but the petitioner generally must present evidence that the vaccination caused or significantly contributed to the injury.
It affects what must be proven and what medical evidence may be needed. An on-table claim may have a presumption of causation, while an off-table claim usually requires a more direct medical and scientific causation showing.
The Vaccine Injury Table is a federal regulation identifying covered vaccines, compensable injuries, and the required time between vaccination and symptom onset. The version in effect for the relevant claim and any later amendments may matter.
The evidence may include treating-provider records, a consistent symptom timeline, medical literature, differential diagnosis, prior health history, and a qualified expert opinion. The exact proof depends on the injury and the facts of the individual claim.
Each Table entry has its own onset requirement. Some injuries must begin within hours or days, while others have longer windows. The vaccination date, first symptom, significant aggravation, and applicable Table version must be compared carefully.
Yes. The vaccine, diagnosis, onset period, administration facts, severity requirements, filing deadline, and other program rules must still be satisfied. A Table match alone does not guarantee compensation.
Off-table claims generally require more direct proof of causation and therefore can demand more extensive medical and expert evidence. An on-table claim can still be factually and legally demanding, and neither path guarantees an outcome.
Compare the vaccine, diagnosis, onset, and medical facts to the applicable federal Table entry. Because the analysis is technical and the Table can change, a vaccine injury attorney can help identify the likely framework without replacing medical advice.
Contact an attorney early, particularly if you are unsure about the diagnosis, onset window, or filing deadline. Early review helps preserve evidence and identify whether the claim belongs under the VICP or another program.
This page is for general information only. It is not legal or medical advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. VICP petitions are filed in the U.S. Court of Federal Claims. Eligibility, deadlines, evidence, potential compensation, and results depend on the facts of each matter, the applicable Vaccine Injury Table, and the rules in effect when the claim is evaluated. No result is guaranteed.
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Questions about a vaccine injury can be time-sensitive. Call the firm or schedule a confidential consultation to discuss the records, timing, and possible path for your situation.
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