Can I file a RECA claim for a parent or grandparent who has passed away?
Yes. This surprises many families: the law allows survivors to file on behalf of a loved one who died — even if they died many years ago.
Who can file
If the person has died, an eligible survivor may file. Priority runs: a qualifying spouse first (generally married to the person for at least one year immediately before their death), then children, then parents, then grandchildren, then grandparents. The single $100,000 payment is divided equally among eligible members of the highest qualifying group. One relative can begin the process, but the Department of Justice may require information and signatures from the other living members of that group.
What you will need
- Proof the person lived in Idaho between 1951 and 1962 — see our step-by-step residency proof guide. For a deceased parent, school records, church records, and city directories are often the best sources.
- Proof of the cancer — medical records or a death certificate showing a covered cancer.
- Proof of your relationship — your birth certificate connecting you to the person, the person's death certificate, and marriage certificates where names changed.
Common questions
My mother died in 1985. Is that too long ago?
Our family isn't sure exactly where Grandma lived back then.
Do all the siblings have to agree?
Not sure if this applies to your family?
No sign-up, no records required to start.
Take the free 2-minute eligibility checkLast updated July 2026.