Radiation Exposure Compensation Act: Downwinder Eligibility
If you or a loved one lived in Utah, Idaho, Nevada, Arizona, or New Mexico during the nuclear testing era and later developed a covered cancer, you may qualify for a one-time $100,000, TAX FREE federal payment under the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA).
Survivors can apply on behalf of an eligible family member who has passed away.
IMPORTANT UPDATE JULY 4, 2025: With the RECA expansion now in effect, thousands of additional individuals and their families may qualify for compensation.
The Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) provides a one-time payment from the U.S. Department of Justice to individuals—or their surviving family members—who were exposed to radioactive fallout during nuclear testing between 1945 and 1962.
What is RECA?
Eligible individuals receive a one-time payment of $100,000, TAX FREE from the U.S. Department of Justice. If the eligible individual has died, survivors may apply.
Potential Compensation
You May Qualify If
You’ve lived in one of these states: Utah, Idaho, Nevada, Northern Arizona, or New Mexico.
You resided in the area for at least one year during the eligible period.
You’ve been diagnosed with a covered cancer or leukemia.
Deceased Family Member Eligibility
If a family member is deceased, their spouses, children, or grandchildren are considered eligible beneficiaries and may make a claim on their behalf.
Deadline Reminder
All RECA claims must be submitted no later than December 31, 2027. Act now to ensure your eligibility review is completed in time.
Check Your Eligibility Now!
Check Your Eligibility Now!
Complete the form to check your eligibility now.
Get the support you deserve through a program authorized by Congress. Your well-being is our top priority, and our team is dedicated to guiding you with care and clarity through the RECA process.
FAQs
-
The U.S. Department of Justice recognizes the following cancers and leukemias under RECA for Downwinders:
Leukemias:
Leukemia (except chronic lymphocytic leukemia [CLL])
Other Covered Cancers:
Lymphomas (excluding Hodgkin’s disease)
Multiple Myeloma
Thyroid
Breast (male and female)
Esophagus
Stomach
Pharynx
Small Intestine
Pancreas
Bile Ducts
Gall Bladder
Salivary Gland
Urinary Bladder
Brain
Colon
Ovary
Liver (except with cirrhosis or Hepatitis B)
Lung
Source: U.S. Department of Justice, Radiation Exposure Compensation Program (RECA)
-
To qualify as a Downwinder under the new RECA law, you must have lived for at least one year in one of the following areas during the nuclear testing years (1944–1962):
Arizona — Apache, Coconino, Gila, Mohave, Navajo, Yavapai
Nevada — Eureka, Lander, Lincoln, Nye, White Pine, and portions of Clark County
New Mexico — Entire state
Utah & Idaho — Entire states now recognized -
To qualify as a Downwinder under the new RECA law, you must have lived for at least one year in one of the following areas during the nuclear testing years (1944–1962):
Arizona — Apache, Coconino, Gila, Mohave, Navajo, Yavapai
Nevada — Eureka, Lander, Lincoln, Nye, White Pine, and portions of Clark County
New Mexico — Entire state
Utah & Idaho — Entire states now recognized -
-
You can still check your eligibility. Click here to submit your details – We’ll help verify.
About Barber & Borg
For over 30 years, Barber & Borg has represented individuals and families affected by injury and illness. We partner with advocacy organizations to guide you through the RECA process—professionally, compassionately, and efficiently.
Past results do not guarantee similar outcomes. Eligibility and compensation are determined by federal law. No attorney-client relationship is formed by checking your eligibility.
Nathan Anderson - Principal, BARBER & BORG Law Firm
“Receive trusted guidance through a federally recognized program supported by Congress. Your well-being remains our top priority, and our team is committed to walking with you through every step of the RECA process.”
