Questions and Answers About the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act
Learn how the Church History Library’s collection of records can help assist with the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act.
Individuals and families affected by radiation exposure in certain parts of the United States may be eligible for financial compensation through the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA). The Church History Library holds records that can help qualifying applicants locate historical records that support RECA claims.
RECA applies to individuals who were affected by one or more of the following:
U.S. Department of Justice RECA page .
The Church History Library does not provide or collect RECA applications. Applicants are responsible for completing and submitting their claims directly to the Department of Justice.
However, since many Latter-day Saints lived in the affected areas, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has created a RECA research team to provide verified Church records to support your application once you have begun the official RECA process. To request record support, please fill out and submit this application to the Church’s RECA research team at the email address on the form after you have already begun your application with the Department of Justice.
We hope this information helps you or your family members find the resources and evidence requested for any RECA claims.
What Is the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act?
The Radiation Exposure Act was enacted by the United States Congress in 1990 to provide compensation to individuals who developed certain cancers or serious illnesses due to exposure related to the U.S. nuclear weapons program.RECA applies to individuals who were affected by one or more of the following:
- Radiation exposure from atomic weapons testing conducted between 1944 and 1962
- Employment in uranium mining, milling, and/or transporting between 1942 and 1971
- Living, working, or attending school in areas affected by Manhatten Project waste contamination
Where Can I Find the RECA Application Form?
The official RECA application form and instructions are available through the U.S. Department of Justice website.The Church History Library does not provide or collect RECA applications. Applicants are responsible for completing and submitting their claims directly to the Department of Justice.
However, since many Latter-day Saints lived in the affected areas, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has created a RECA research team to provide verified Church records to support your application once you have begun the official RECA process. To request record support, please fill out and submit this application to the Church’s RECA research team at the email address on the form after you have already begun your application with the Department of Justice.
We hope this information helps you or your family members find the resources and evidence requested for any RECA claims.