Do I need an EEOICPA Attorney?

EEOICPA – Do I need an attorney?

If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with cancer or another illness after working at a Department of Energy (DOE) or an Atomic Weapons Employer (AWE) facility, then you are probably weighing your options. There are many online resources and even more legal forms available, but the main question you are facing is: Do I need an EEOICPA attorney?

When filing an EEOICPA claim, you have the option to file on your own, file with professional advocates or representatives or use an EEOICPA attorney. The fees charged by lawyers AND advocates are limited by the EEOICPA and RECA statutes themselves.

In fact, lawyers are held to a higher ethical standard imposed by the state bar and licensing authority. Reputable lawyers also carry professional liability insurance for the protection of their clients.

No matter what you choose, the following is available for you:

You may be eligible for up to $400,000.
Tax-free awards.
No fee unless you are awarded.
Fees are 2% for an initial claim, plus 10% if the claim is recommended for denial.
The fees will be the same whether you choose a reputable lawyer, professional advocate or other representative.

We strongly recommend you seek assistance for your claim, as the Department of Labor denies approximately 50% of claims!

Am I eligible for an EEOICPA Claim or a RECA Claim?

Did you or a family member work in the manufacturing or testing of nuclear weapons and become ill thereafter? If you have just learned about the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program (EEOICPA), it is probably unclear if you should file a claim.

Further complicating matters is that the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) also exists. If you are looking for clarity on the differences between between RECA and EEOICPA, then an attorney can simplify this process for you.

Different scenarios: An EEOICPA Attorney can help!

You realize that either you, your parent, your spouse, or your grandparent has a condition or died related to exposure to radiation or a toxic substance and don’t know where to start.
Your claim under EEOICPA or RECA has been denied.
Your EEOICPA claim has been accepted and you need to understand the impairment rating or the wage loss process.
Your EEOICPA claim has been accepted and you want to learn about health care coverage or reimbursement of expenses or travel and the available health care and home care benefits.

Avoidable Mistakes

Medical bills and insurance can be overwhelming, especially for those already struggling with an illness in their family. These claims should be handled by a licensed professional to prevent mistakes in the claim process. Some mistakes cannot be fixed after filing. For example, a claimant who qualifies for both RECA and EEOICPA benefits loses the right to claim the more advantageous EEOICPA benefits if he or she accepts RECA benefits.

Some claimants spend their compensation on medical bills, old and new, until they have nothing left. There are other alternatives! Certain insurance policies have limits, deductibles or “holes” that can be managed where an EEOICPA claim has been accepted.

Contact Stephens & Stephens

Whether you have just learned about EEOICPA programs or you have just finished your fourth impairment rating, Stephens & Stephens can help. We will answer your questions and can add you to our mailing list for up to date developments with the program. Our trusted EEOICPA team can be reached at (800) 548-4494 or via email at hstephens@stephensstephens.com.