What Is RECA?
The Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) is a federal program providing one-time compensation to individuals harmed by radiation exposure from U.S. nuclear weapons testing and uranium industry work. Since 1990, RECA has awarded over $2.5 billion.
As of July 3, 2025, RECA has been reauthorized and extended through December 31, 2027, now covering more former uranium workers and residents in newly recognized affected areas.
RECA offers lump sum compensation but not medical benefits. However, eligible uranium workers under RECA are also entitled to medical benefits through the EEOICPA program.
If you or a loved one worked in the uranium industry as a miner, miller, ore transporter, or core driller and developed a qualifying illness, contact us for assistance.
What Is Covered Under the Expanded Radiation Exposure Compensation Act?
Individuals who worked at uranium mines, mills, or transported ore are eligible for a one-time, tax-free compensation payment ranging from $50,000 to $100,000, based on exposure type, employment history, or residency. Additionally, dependents may receive a $25,000 survivor benefit if the claimant has died.
New Illnesses Included in the 2025 RECA Reauthorization:
- Chronic renal disease, including nephritis and kidney tubal tissue injury
Who Is Eligible for the RECA Program?
Uranium Industry Workers (1942–1990) may qualify for RECA compensation and medical benefits if they can establish:
- Employment as a miner, miller, ore transporter, core driller and/or remediation worker in a specified state.
- Employment for at least one year (12 consecutive or cumulative months) between January 1, 1942, and December 31, 1990; or exposure to 40 or more working level months of radiation during employment.
- Development of primary lung cancer, a nonmalignant respiratory disease, primary renal cancer, or chronic renal disease (including nephritis and kidney tubal tissue injury) after at least one year of such employment.
- Combined work histories are allowed to meet the work requirement.
- Arizona
- Colorado
- Idaho
- Oregon
- New Mexico
- North Dakota
- South Dakota
- Texas
- Utah
- Washington
- Wyoming
Covered Conditions/Illnesses:
(Millers & Ore Transporters)
(Millers & Ore Transporters)
Covered Conditions/Illnesses:
- Primary Cancer of the Lung
- Fibrosis of the lung
- Pulmonary Fibrosis
- Silicosis
- Pneumoconiosis
- Cor pulmonale
(Millers & Ore Transporters)
- Renal Cancer
- Chronic Renal Disease
How to Apply for RECA and How Nuclear Care Partners Can Help
Filing Period & Resubmission Rules:
- Initial claims must be submitted by December 31, 2027.
- Claimants have a five-year window from enactment to submit new claims.
- Previously denied claims can now be resubmitted up to three times.
The RECA claim process involves gathering medical records, employment history, and documentation of radiation exposure or test site residency, which can be complex and time-consuming.
That’s where Nuclear Care Partners comes in.
We will:
- Assess your eligibility based on updated laws.
- Help collect exposure/employment history and medical records.
- Assist in drafting and submitting your RECA claim.
- Facilitate resubmission of previously denied claims, if needed.
- Coordinate with EEOICPA and other programs to maximize total benefits.
Given the potential backlog, filing as early as possible is vital.
*Beware of predatory law firms and scams. Some may try to exploit eligible recipients by offering unnecessary claim assistance or charging for services you do not need.