Why you need an Authorized Representative for EEOICPA claims

You don’t have to face the Department of Labor alone 

Navigating the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act, or EEOICPA DOL White Card program, can be confusing, frustrating, and overwhelming. This is especially true because you're going up against a complex federal agency in the Department of Labor (DOL).  

Whether you are filing for the first time or appealing a denied claim, the process is stacked with paperwork, strict deadlines, and complicated medical and technical requirements. 

That’s why partnering with a qualified Authorized Representative (AR) is not just helpful, it can be the key to securing the benefits you deserve. 

What is an Authorized Representative (AR)? 

An Authorized Representative is a professional who is knowledgeable and experienced in assisting claimants navigate the DOL under the EEOICPA DOL White Card program. Unlike "free liaisons" offered by some home healthcare agencies which could pose a conflict of interest, ARs work solely for your benefit, not for a medical provider or outside company. 

Choosing a licensed AR means you have an advocate who knows the system, understands your rights and is incentivized to get you the highest possible award. 

Top 10 reasons to use an Authorized Representative for your EEOICPA claim 

1. Expert guidance through government programs
   You need someone who knows the DOL’s procedures inside and out. ARs are experienced in anticipating obstacles and push back when your rights are at risk. They attend hearings in objection to your denied claims.
2. Deep understanding of the EEOICPA DOL White Card program
   ARs specialize in this program. They know how to tailor arguments based on specific diagnoses, work history and exposure types from uranium to asbestos to beryllium.
3. Accuracy and timeliness
   The paperwork burden is intense. One missed form or incorrect date can stall your claim for months. ARs make sure your application is complete, clean and submitted on time.
4. Advocacy at hearings and interviews
   An AR should always present your objections at a hearing and have experience doing so. If your case goes to a hearing, a qualified AR can speak for you and defend your claim. They know how to argue effectively and protect your interests. The AR knows to request a hearing on all denials and zealously fights for your rights to due process and to ensure the DOL follows the law.
5. Less stress for you and your family
   Let an expert handle the red tape while you focus on your health. Our clients often say that hiring an AR gave them peace of mind during an otherwise stressful time.
6. Faster resolutions
   ARs know how to avoid common delays and follow up quickly when something stalls. In many cases, this speeds up the review process.
7. Only paid if you win
   ARs are compensated only if you receive benefits. The standard fee ranges from 2% to 10% of your award, so their success is directly tied to yours.
8. Access to a network of experts
   Experienced ARs often work with medical and legal experts who can provide second opinions, clarify diagnoses and strengthen your evidence.
9. Clear communication with the DOL
   You won’t be stuck on hold or confused by agency jargon. Your AR handles all correspondence with the DOL, ensuring professional, timely communication.
10. Ethical separation from healthcare providers
    Beware of "free help" or “free liaisons” from home healthcare companies. Not only because these people may be unqualified, but also because if they are employed by or receive payment from a home healthcare company, the DOL may see this as a conflict of interest and could jeopardize your benefits.

• A conflict of interest warning from the Department of Labor: The DOL program is clear about conflict of interest in their DOL Procedures Manual:
  An incidence of conflict of interest includes evidence showing the AR works for, or is contracted by, an individual, organization or entity that concurrently receives monetary payment from DEEOIC for services, supplies or other resources affiliated with the claim. This includes a representative who is a family member or other relative of the claimant receiving a wage, contractual payment, or fee from a medical service provider that the DEEOIC has granted authorization to provide in-home health services for that claimant. Consent of the claimant does not absolve a conflict of interest.  

Trusted Ally clients get results from experienced ARs 

Real example: A former uranium worker was denied due to lack of exposure evidence. An AR reopened the case, obtained archived employment records, and secured over $400,000 in compensation. 

Real example: A family sought AR guidance after losing a loved one to lung cancer. The AR built a case around site-specific beryllium exposure and won survivor benefits they never thought they’d see. 

• Read our blog: What are EEOICPA survivor benefits? 

Real example: A worker was approved for COPD and asbestosis after years of delay and frustration. As a specialist in Part B beryllium lung disease, the AR identified overlooked evidence of beryllium exposure in the worker's job history. This led to an additional $150,000 award that the claimant never would have known to pursue without help from an AR.  

Real example: An AR successfully appealed denied cancer claims by meticulously reviewing thousands of pages from the Department of Energy (DOE) records and identifying previously unrecognized incidents involving radioactive release. The AR presented a compelling legal argument at the hearing, advocating for the worker to be considered under Special Exposure Cohort (SEC) status. 

Whether your case involves denied cancer claims, radiation dose reconstructions, or complex site history, an AR can go beyond paperwork. They will build your legal argument, attend every hearing and push for every avenue of eligibility, including SEC status where appropriate. You can trust that no stone is left unturned. 

Have a conversation with our team before you file your EEOICPA claim alone 

Yes, you have the right to file alone and represent yourself. But in our experience, claimants without representation are more likely to face denials, delays and frustration. 

Unqualified help can be worse. As we mentioned above, a home healthcare company’s "liaison" may promise results but lack credentials, experience, or independence and could even put your claim at risk due to conflicts of interest. 

You deserve an honest advocate on your side who only works for you 

If you or a loved one is dealing with an EEOICPA claim, don’t go it alone. We can connect you with a qualified AR who offers free consultations and will review your case honestly, even if that means referring you to another AR with deeper experience in your particular illness or facility. 

ARs don’t just fill out forms, they fight for your benefits. 

You only get one shot at many of these claims so make it count with a qualified AR in your corner. 

Get started today and we’ll connect you with a qualified AR for a free review of your EEOICPA claim.

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