Step-by-Step: The Radiation Compensation Claim Process Explained

Radiation exposure can lead to severe health issues, and understanding the compensation claim process is crucial for those affected. The Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) is a federal law providing financial restitution to individuals who have developed specific illnesses due to radiation exposure from U.S. nuclear weapons programs or uranium mining. Since 1990, RECA has awarded over $2.6 billion in benefits to more than 41,000 claimants. If you believe you or a loved one is eligible for compensation, navigating the claim process can seem daunting. This guide provides a step-by-step explanation to help you understand and pursue your claim effectively.

1. Determine Eligibility for Radiation Exposure Compensation

The first step is to determine if you meet the eligibility criteria for compensation under RECA. RECA covers several categories of individuals:

Uranium Workers: Those employed as miners, millers, or ore transporters between 1942 and 1971.
Onsite Participants: Individuals present at U.S. atmospheric nuclear test sites before 1963.
Downwinders: Residents of specific counties in states such as Nevada, Utah, and Arizona, exposed to fallout from nuclear testing.
Manhattan Project Waste Claimants: Individuals who lived, worked, or attended school in designated areas affected by Manhattan Project waste for at least two years after January 1, 1949, and were later diagnosed with a specified disease.

To be eligible, claimants must have contracted one of the medical conditions specified in the RECA statute after the period of exposure or residency. These conditions include specific cancers such as leukemia, lymphoma, multiple myeloma, and primary cancers of the thyroid, lung, breast, esophagus, stomach, and others.

2. Gather Necessary Documentation

Once you’ve determined your eligibility, the next step is to gather all the necessary documentation to support your claim. This documentation typically includes:

Proof of Exposure: Employment records, historical documents, or other evidence demonstrating your presence at a qualifying site during the specified period.
Medical Records: Comprehensive medical records documenting your diagnosis of a compensable disease, including the date of diagnosis and the type of cancer or illness.
Residency Verification: Documents proving your residency in a designated downwind area during the relevant period, such as utility bills, property tax records, or school records.
Identification Documents: Government-issued identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, to verify your identity.

3. Complete the RECA Claim Form

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) administers the RECA program, and you must complete the appropriate claim form to initiate the compensation process. Claim forms are available on the DOJ website or through the RECA Program. Be sure to use the correct claim form based on your eligibility category (e.g., Downwinder, Uranium Worker, Manhattan Project Waste Claimant).

The claim form requires detailed information about your exposure history, medical condition, and residency. Ensure that all sections are completed accurately and truthfully. Any omissions or inaccuracies could delay or jeopardize your claim.

4. Submit Your Claim to the Department of Justice

Once you have completed the claim form and gathered all supporting documentation, submit your claim to the DOJ. As of December 2025, all claims must be submitted by mail to the following address:

U.S. Department of Justice
Radiation Exposure Compensation Program
P.O. Box 146
Ben Franklin Station
Washington, DC 20044-0146

While an online claim portal is projected to be operational by December 2025, it is essential to verify the availability and functionality of the portal before attempting to submit your claim electronically.

5. Await Claim Review and Determination

After submitting your claim, the DOJ will review your application and supporting documentation to determine if you meet the eligibility criteria for compensation. The RECA program utilizes existing records to resolve claims in a reliable, objective, and non-adversarial manner. The DOJ may request additional information or documentation from you during the review process.

The DOJ aims to complete the determination on each claim within 12 months of filing. However, processing times may vary depending on the complexity of the claim and the volume of applications received.

6. Understanding Compensation and Benefits

If your claim is approved, you will receive a one-time, lump-sum payment as compensation for your radiation-related illness. The amount of compensation varies depending on the category under which you are eligible:

Uranium Workers: \$100,000
Onsite Participants: \$75,000
Downwinders: \$50,000
Manhattan Project Waste Claimants: \$50,000 or reimbursement of out-of-pocket medical expenses.

In addition to monetary compensation, the RECA program may also provide medical benefits to eligible individuals. These benefits can help cover the costs of medical treatment and care for radiation-related illnesses.

7. Statute of Limitations and Deadlines

It’s crucial to be aware of the statute of limitations and deadlines for filing a RECA claim. The Radiation Exposure Compensation Reauthorization Act extends the period for filing claims until December 31, 2027. To receive compensation for out-of-pocket medical expenses, documentation of those costs must be submitted by December 31, 2028.

8. Seeking Legal Assistance

Navigating the RECA claim process can be complex, and it may be beneficial to seek legal assistance from an experienced radiation exposure lawyer. An attorney can help you understand your rights, gather necessary documentation, complete the claim form accurately, and represent you in communications with the DOJ.

A lawyer can also assist you in appealing a denied claim or pursuing additional compensation through other legal avenues, such as workers’ compensation or personal injury lawsuits.

Types of Radiation Exposure and Injuries

Understanding the different types of radiation exposure and the injuries they can cause is essential in determining the potential for a compensation claim. Radiation injuries can occur through:

Irradiation: Exposure to penetrating radiation from an external source.
External Contamination: Radioactive materials deposited on the skin or external surfaces of the body.
Internal Contamination: Radioactive materials entering the body through inhalation, ingestion, or wounds.

These exposures can lead to various health issues, including:

Radiation Sickness (Acute Radiation Syndrome): Occurs after exposure to a high dose of ionizing radiation in a short period, causing symptoms like nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and hair loss.
Cutaneous Radiation Syndrome (CRS): Skin symptoms resulting from radiation exposure, including redness, blistering, and ulceration.
Long-Term Illnesses: Including various forms of cancer and other chronic conditions.

Navigating RECA in 2025 and Beyond

The Radiation Exposure Compensation Act has been amended and reauthorized several times since its enactment in 1990. Recent changes have expanded eligibility to include additional groups affected by radiation exposure, such as those impacted by Manhattan Project waste.

As of July 2025, Missouri residents diagnosed with qualifying cancers may be eligible for compensation under RECA. The expansion includes 21 ZIP codes in Missouri linked to specific contamination sites.

Conclusion

Filing a radiation compensation claim can be a complex process, but understanding the steps involved can empower you to pursue the compensation you deserve. By determining your eligibility, gathering necessary documentation, completing the claim form accurately, and seeking legal assistance when needed, you can navigate the process effectively and protect your rights. Remember to stay informed about the latest updates to RECA and deadlines for filing claims to ensure your application is processed in a timely manner.