Before you pay anyone to help with a VA claim, check this first.
Claim help from an accredited veterans service organization is free. A few accredited attorneys and claims agents do charge, but the rules limit when and how much. This free tool checks whether someone is on VA's list and points out offers that break those rules. Everything runs in your browser. Nothing you type is sent anywhere.
The rules that matter most
- Only VA-accredited attorneys and claims agents may charge for help with a claim. Recognized veterans service organizations, such as DAV, the American Legion, VFW and many state veterans departments, and their accredited representatives, may not charge.
- Under 38 CFR 14.636, an accredited attorney or claims agent can generally charge only for work done after VA issues its first decision, and only under a written fee agreement. A fee up to 20% of past-due benefits is presumed reasonable. More than 33⅓% is presumed unreasonable.
- Federal law says VA benefits cannot be assigned to someone else (38 U.S.C. 5301(a)(1)). No one should buy, advance against, or take over your monthly payments.
These are plain-language summaries, not legal advice. Exceptions exist, for example for older claims and some appeals. When in doubt, ask an accredited veterans service officer, which is free.
1. Look up a person or organization
Loading VA's accreditation list...
Tip: a last name plus a state works best. The list is a snapshot, so a brand-new accreditation may not show yet. VA's own live search is always the final word.
2. Check an offer
Paste an ad, text message, email or contract language from someone offering to help with your claim. This looks for common warning signs and explains each one. It stays on your device.
Free help that is actually free
- Find an accredited representative (VA's own tool).
- VA benefits hotline: 800-827-1000.
- Texas veterans: the Texas Veterans Commission and your county veterans service officer offer claims help at no cost.
- Think you were targeted? Report it at reportfraud.ftc.gov.