FAQ
Avoiding claim sharks & scams
How to tell legitimate, free help from the predators — and what to do in a crisis.
- How do I know if someone helping with my claim is legitimate?
- Check their accreditation. Only VA-accredited attorneys, claims agents, and VSO representatives may lawfully help with a VA benefits claim — and you can verify anyone using VA's official 'Find an accredited representative' tool. VSO help is always free. If a company can't be found in VA's accreditation lookup, walk away.
- Is it normal to pay a percentage of my back pay?
- No. No one may charge you for help with an initial claim — accredited or not. Accredited attorneys and agents may charge only regulated fees, only at the appeal or decision-review stage, and those fees are subject to VA review. A company quoting 'a percentage of your retroactive award' for getting you rated is not operating legitimately.
- Are 'we get you to 100%' companies VA-approved?
- No. VA does not approve or endorse any private claims-consulting or 'medical evidence' company. VA has sent dozens of cease-and-desist letters to such firms. They are never a source of funding — they take money, they don't provide it. Use a free accredited VSO instead.
- I'm about to lose my housing — what do I do right now?
- Call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 877-424-3838. It's free, answered 24 hours a day, and it connects you to local SSVF providers and VA homeless coordinators. You do not apply for a grant, and you never pay anyone to 'apply' — anyone charging for SSVF or HUD-VASH 'application help' is running a scam.
The saddest losses in this field aren’t denied claims — they’re veterans who paid thousands for help that was free. Learn the tells once, and you’re protected for good. More detail on the free-help page.
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