Diocese record · New York

Diocese of Buffalo

The western New York diocese reached a settlement in principle in April 2025 to pay $150 million to more than 800 abuse survivors; with insurer contributions the total reorganization plan grew to roughly $274 million.

People's Justice Accountability DeskFacts verified Jul 12, 20263 sources

Filing window status

New York’s Child Victims Act lookback window has closed, and the diocese’s bankruptcy is resolving the claims filed against it. If you were harmed and have not yet come forward, deadlines and exceptions vary — a free, confidential review can explain what options remain.

Deadlines are state-specific and change often. Even if you think a window has passed, it is worth confirming — exceptions can apply. A free, confidential review can tell you where you stand.

The record

Key Facts

Fact 01

$150 million survivor settlement (in principle)

Source: Diocese of Buffalo / NCR, April 2025

Fact 02

800+ abuse claims

Source: News 4 Buffalo / NCR, 2025

Fact 03

~$274M total plan with insurer contributions

Source: BishopAccountability.org, Oct. 2025

Fact 04

$80M parish contribution

Source: Spectrum News, June 9, 2025

What is documented

The Allegations

More than 800 survivors filed claims of childhood sexual abuse by clergy, religious, lay employees, and volunteers. The diocese filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in February 2020 amid mounting Child Victims Act litigation.

The full account

The Record

The Diocese of Buffalo filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in February 2020 as it faced hundreds of lawsuits under New York’s Child Victims Act.

On April 22, 2025, the diocese and the Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors announced a settlement in principle: the diocese, its parishes, and Catholic affiliates would pay $150 million to more than 800 survivors. The diocese asked its parishes to contribute $80 million toward that figure.

By October 2025 the total reorganization plan had grown to approximately $274 million as insurers agreed to contribute a further $122.5 million. The plan remained subject to a creditor vote and court approval.

Sources & attribution

Sources Cited

3 sources

Related investigation

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