Applying for veterans’ benefits can be a challenging and, at times, frustrating experience. While many veterans choose DAV and other organizations accredited through the Department of Veterans Affairs for claims assistance, others fall victim to predatory activity that’s not only immoral—it’s illegal.

These unscrupulous actors unlawfully charge veterans exorbitant fees to help process their claims—the same work DAV provides for free. In some cases, veterans are coerced to sign unfair contracts that predatory claims practitioners use to secure a percentage of their earned benefits.

Under current law, only accredited representatives are authorized to charge fees and only after the VA makes a claims decision—not merely for help filling out paperwork or meeting to discuss their claim.

Never pay a fee for help with an initial claim. Period.

While paying for claims assistance is sometimes permitted, the entities charging veterans must be accredited, and fees are only allowed after the VA has rendered a decision. If someone wants to charge you for any initial claims work, consider that a major red flag.

Predatory claims companies are working to target you and your earned benefits, and you should be on the lookout. They are often found online, using social media, email and other means to take advantage of you—don’t fall for it! What’s worse is that a process exists for them to become fully accredited, which they continually refuse, laying bare their true money-grubbing motivations.

But the good news is that there are ways to protect yourself. Never sign a contract with these for-profit companies or agree to pay for initial claims. Verify the legitimacy of any assistance offered, and report any suspected fraud.

You can check to see if an individual or company is accredited here. But remember, veterans can always contact a DAV national service officer through benefitsquestions.org to receive free world-class service and assistance in filing claims.

While predatory claims companies actively lobby Congress and state governments to pass legislation that would permit them to charge excessive fees to the men and women who served, DAV is looking for ways to hold them accountable. Shielding your fellow veterans is a team sport, and you can support the GUARD VA Benefits Act, DAV-supported legislation that would reinstate criminal penalties for these predatory businesses.

If you or anyone you know has fallen victim to predatory claims practices, you should report it to VA by:

  • Calling the VA Office of General Counsel at 202-461-7699;
  • Calling the VA Office of Inspector General hotline at 1-800-488-8244;
  • Filing a complaint with their State Attorney, and
  • Filing a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission.