Criminal and Juvenile Justice Debt Relief Program

Paying criminal and juvenile justice debt to repay victims of crime, increase economic mobility, and remove barriers to record clearing.

About

The Criminal and Juvenile Justice Debt Relief Program pays the justice debt of Philadelphians who live in low-income households. The program is intended to enhance community wellbeing and public safety by:

Increasing access to employment, housing, and economic opportunity for individuals with clearable records.
Allowing individuals to contribute more to their families and communities.
Enhancing equity in the justice system.

The vast majority of funds will be used to pay restitution to Philadelphia victims of crime. Payments will range up to $15,000.

Connect

Email	justice-debt-relief@phila.gov

Process and eligibility

Individuals cannot directly apply for debt relief. Instead, the City identifies eligible Philadelphians by reviewing court data and consulting with legal services organizations.

Participants must live in a low-income household and not be currently incarcerated. Case record eligibility is based on the type of debt owed, since most of the funds will be used for restitution payments.

Eligibility is determined on an ongoing basis when funding is available.

Get help with petitioning to seal a record

If the City paid your justice debt and you need help with sealing your record, send us an email with the subject line "Petition help."

Send email

Resources

Clean Slate Screener

You may be able to clear your criminal record under the Clean Slate 3.0 legislation that was passed in December 2023. Use the Clean Slate Screener to check your eligibility.

PALawHELP.org

To find legal help, visit PALawHELP.org and enter the location of your arrest. Choose “Employment” as your legal topic, and then choose “Criminal Records Expungement, Record Sealing & Pardons.”

Partners