EEOICPA Claim Filed: Next Steps and Resources While You Wait

You filed your EEOICPA claim with the Department of Labor (DOL). Now what?

While your claim is being reviewed, it’s important to stay informed, engage with DOL requests, and know where to turn with questions.

Ways to stay informed during the waiting period include:

1. Promptly responding to DOL communications

2. Regularly checking your DOL Portal

Available resources to help keep you updated:

• Trusted Ally COR and BCC

• Authorized Representatives

• Department of Labor (DOL)

• Local Resource Centers

• DOL Portal

» Plus, learn how completing the optional Occupational History Questionnaire (OHQ) interview can be an invaluable, additional resource for claimants.

Ways to stay informed while your EEOICPA claim is processing

Waiting for a claim determination can take up to a year or more. Stay informed to keep your claim status moving forward smoothly while you wait on a decision. Remaining engaged after filing is crucial.

1. Stay up to date on DOL Communication  

The Department of Labor (DOL) may send updates, request additional documentation, or send inquiries that require a timely response. You may receive claim-related information through:

• Letters sent directly from the DOL

• Correspondence with an Authorized Representative (AR)

• Communication with your Trusted Ally team

• The DOL Portal

Letters from DOL: Communications sent by mail directly to you and to any Authorized Representative assisting with your case. Mailed correspondences may take days or weeks to arrive, leaving you with a shorter response window (general DOL response windows are 30 days or less).

AR Communication: AR's may be responsible for submitting documentation to the DOL. Maintaining communication with them can help claimants understand what has been submitted and learn of claim updates.

Trusted Ally: It's important to note that Trusted Ally does not receive direct DOL communications. Instead, Trusted Ally stays in close contact with your AR to help keep you updated on changes, requests, and other information that may affect your claim.

DOL Portal: Checking the portal provides real-time updates and allows for timely responses to requests.

2. Set up and regularly check your DOL Portal account

The portal is a quick and convenient way to monitor your claim and check for new information or requests. 

The biggest piece of advice that I can give is to set your portal up… Then, every Friday, take 2 minutes to check your portal. — Michele T., Benefits Claims Coordinator

Regularly monitoring your portal and staying aware of your claim activity can help you track submitted documents, identify potential issues, and avoid unnecessary delays.

» Need help getting your DOL Portal account set up?

Your Trusted Ally Community Outreach Representative can assist you with setting up your DOL Portal. Click 'Contact' to reach our team. 

Helpful resources for questions or issues with your EEOICPA claim

You may notice that a filed document has been flagged, medical records are missing or there’s been a hold on your claim’s status. It’s important to be aware of these issues and know how to get connected to the appropriate resources for assistance.

Trusted Ally Community Outreach Representative (COR) or Benefits Claims Coordinator (BCC)

Your Trusted Ally COR or BCC can help you navigate questions about your claim, communicate with your Authorized Representative (AR), and guide you towards useful resources.

• Trusted Ally Phone: (866) 286-6426

Authorized Representatives (AR)

Your AR can help with submitting documentation and communicating directly to the DOL. Regularly checking in with your AR throughout the claims process can help keep you informed and aware of new updates or needed information.

• Learn how Authorized Representatives help EEOICPA claims

• Get connected with an Authorized Representative

Department of Labor (DOL)

Sometimes, a question or issue needs to be addressed directly by the DOL. The DOL can provide assistance with questions about your claim and filing status.

• DOL Phone: (866) 888-3322

• DOL Fax: (206) 224-1216

Local Resource Centers

DOL Resource Centers are an office of the Department of Labor that provide direct assistance related to the EEOICPA claims process. They receive weekly updates from the DOL and are a valuable, up-to-date resource. 

• Visit Resource Center Website

DOL Portal

The DOL Portal is an important tool for monitoring your claim, checking for new communications or requests, and uploading necessary documents. You can access your account at any time for the most up-to-date information.

• Visit DOL Portal Website 

How does the Occupational History Questionnaire (OHQ) strengthen my EEOICPA claim?

The OHQ interview typically happens within the first 30 days after filing. The interview is conducted at a DOL Resource Center and is designed to gather detailed information about your work history and employment at covered DOL facilities.

The interview typically takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours and may cover details such as:

• Name of DOL sites and dates of employment

• Job titles, job duties, locations of job areas and buildings

• Contractor names and dates of contracted employment

• Potential contamination or exposure concerns

• How you used or were exposed to contaminants and how frequently you were exposed

The benefit of doing the OHQ is that it’s claimants’ opportunity to tell their story, what they have lived through, what their experiences were, what they were exposed to, and how, in their own words. — Michele T., Benefits Claims Coordinator 

The OHQ interview is optional, and a claimant can choose to decline. However, participation is highly encouraged because it gives you an opportunity to provide valuable information that may not be fully captured in general documentation.

The information discussed during the OHQ interview can be utilized in determining whether or not to approve your EEOICPA claim.

Key takeaway on filed claims

• Once your EEOICPA claim has been filed, staying engaged with the process is one of the most important things you can do.

• Keep an eye on Department of Labor communications, regularly check your DOL Portal, stay in contact with your Authorized Representative, and take advantage of opportunities like the OHQ interview to provide crucial, supporting information about your work history.

• If something doesn't look right or you aren't sure what to do next, don't ignore it. Ask questions and reach out to the appropriate resource for help.

Does EEOICPA actually pay claims?

Yes, and as of September 2026, over $33 billion has been paid in total settlements and medical bills paid.

Official source

U.S. Department of Labor (OWCP) — EEOICPA Program Statistics

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What happens after I submit my EEOICPA claim?

A: The Department of Labor (DOL) will review your claim, which can take a significant amount of time. You may receive requests for additional documentation — such as employment or medical records — during this review period.

Q: What should I do while I wait for a decision from the Department of Labor?

A: Stay organized. Keep copies of all documents you've submitted, respond promptly to any DOL requests for additional information, and make sure your contact details are current with the DOL.

Q: Why might my EEOICPA claim be delayed?

A: Common reasons include incomplete medical or employment evidence, difficulty linking your illness to work at a covered facility, or missing documentation. Responding quickly and thoroughly to DOL inquiries can help avoid unnecessary delays.

Q: What if my EEOICPA claim is denied?

A: A denial is not necessarily final. You have the right to appeal or request reconsideration. Many claims are ultimately approved after an appeal with stronger supporting documentation. See Why Was My EEOICPA Claim Denied? for more detail.

Q: Should I work with an Authorized Representative (AR)?

A: Yes, an AR can be highly valuable. They help navigate the complex paperwork, meet deadlines, and represent you in hearings or appeals — at no upfront cost to you. Learn more at Why You Need an Authorized Representative.

Q: What happens if my EEOICPA claim is approved?

A: You may receive a "White Card," granting access to tax-free compensation (up to $400,000) and home healthcare benefits for your approved illness. More details are available at What is the EEOICPA White Card Program?