If you were a worker with radiation-related illness, such as lung or bladder cancer, or are an eligible survivor, you must know about compensation provided by the federal government. The Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) provides medical benefits and monetary compensation for those exposed to nuclear radiation.
Here is what you need to know about qualifying and filing your radiation exposure compensation claim.
What Is the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act?
The Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) was signed into federal law in the 1990s. The legislation was designed to assist workers and their families who have been affected by radiation exposure from nuclear testing, uranium mining and more during the past century.
Administered by the United States Department of Justice, this program provides monetary compensation for those who worked at specific locations in the United States during certain periods. This includes workers at nuclear weapons production facilities, uranium mines, and other places which produce high levels of radiation from radioactive particles.
Who Is Eligible for Radiation Exposure Compensation?
Eligible individuals include uranium miners, millers, and transporters employed between 1942 and 1971. Additionally, on-site participants in atmospheric nuclear weapons tests between 1945 and 1962 may be eligible for compensation. Survivors of these individuals may be eligible, particularly if they developed a related illness or health condition due to their family member’s work or participation in testing programs.
Very broadly, these are the categories of potential recipients of lump sum financial compensation under the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act:
- Uranium workers who were exposed on-site or involved in the transportation of radioactive materials
- Department of Energy workers, contractors or subcontractors
- Downwinders in the states of Arizona, Utah and Nevada
One-time lump sum monetary payments under these federal programs range from $50,000 to $400,000. The amount awarded depends on the individual’s level of exposure and the resulting illnesses. This compensation is supposed to cover medical expenses related to certain health conditions, such as cancer and respiratory problems, caused by radiation exposure. Also, it provides benefits for lost wages and pain and suffering.
In addition to this financial support, the Radiation Exposure Compensation program also provides medical screenings for eligible individuals who may have been exposed to nuclear radiation during their work or participation in testing programs. These medical screenings may detect any potential health issues early, allowing for timely treatment and, hopefully, improving therapeutic outcomes.
How Do I Apply for My Benefits and Lump Sum Compensation?
To apply for radiation exposure compensation, an individual must fill out an application with the Department of Justice and provide supporting documentation. This documentation may include employment records, proof of residency and medical evidence of a related cancer or other qualified illness.
Sadly, the compensation application process can be complicated. However, there are many helpful resources available to applicants and their loved ones. For instance, the services at the National Cancer Benefits Center help individuals and survivors find and provide the government with information pertinent to their cases.
Assistance with Radiation Exposure Compensation Applications
At the National Cancer Benefits Center, we are honored to offer individuals and their significant others assistance in the application process for radiation exposure compensation. Our team is dedicated to providing guidance and support to those who have been affected by radiation exposure in their workplaces or communities.
We understand that dealing with a cancer diagnosis or caring for a loved one with a radiation-related illness can be complex on its own. That is why we are here to help make the application and documentation process as smooth as possible.
Our services include helping applicants gather all necessary documents, completing and submitting the application, and following up with any additional information needed by the Department of Justice. We also offer resources for finding medical evidence and other supporting information.
Our professional team at the National Cancer Benefits Center is available by phone 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. To learn more about how you can get the benefits and compensation you are entitled to, call us today at (800) 414-4328 or request your visit online. We look forward to consulting with you soon.
