DAV is adamant that no veteran should start the claims process by paying for representation. Veterans have access to accredited representatives from veterans service organizations like DAV who provide knowledgeable, ethical support to ensure veterans receive the benefits they’ve earned—at no cost.

Federal law currently prohibits charging veterans for assistance with filing their initial disability claim with the Department of Veterans Affairs. However, in recent years, there has been a rise in unaccredited individuals and companies targeting veterans and their families, who may be unfamiliar with the VA system or who are facing tough financial situations, and charging them steep fees for help that’s already available to veterans for free.

Without any penalty, many for-profit companies have not only continued this lucrative practice but also begun lobbying federal and state lawmakers to legitimize their business. This brazen disregard for current law, coupled with their aggressive push to dismantle protections, reveals a predatory pattern. They’re trying to legislate their way into legitimacy, turning a free service into a lucrative racket at veterans’ expense.

“DAV believes this is wrong—period,” said DAV National Commander Coleman Nee.

But lobbying efforts have proven successful. In May, the Certified Help Options in Claims Expertise (CHOICE) for Veterans Act (H.R. 3132) was introduced.

“If signed into law, the legislation would allow unaccredited companies and individuals to charge veterans up to $12,500 for claims assistance, even for small claims that may take just a few hours of work,” said DAV National Service Director Scott Hope. “This legislation puts profits before veterans and potentially risks deterring those who need help the most from ever filing a claim.

“This bill is the wrong answer for veterans. Veterans earned their benefits. They shouldn’t have to pay to access them.”

With over a century of service to America’s disabled veterans, DAV and fellow VA-accredited benefits advocates continue to provide no-cost assistance and fight to ensure veterans keep the monetary benefits they have earned.

“DAV encourages veterans advocates to stop H.R.3132 from becoming law,” said Nee. “Taking action now is critical to protecting veterans and the integrity of the benefits system. Tell your representative to vote no on H.R. 3132 to make your voice heard. After everything veterans sacrificed, the least we can do is ensure they can access their benefits without a toll.”

Take action with DAV CAN (Commander’s Action Network).