Veterans are increasingly targeted by scammers who exploit their desire to receive the benefits they've earned. These scams can cost you thousands of dollars and jeopardize your VA benefits.
Remember: The VA claims process is FREE. Legitimate help from Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) is FREE. If someone is charging you upfront fees to file a VA claim, it's likely a scam.
Understanding common scams and knowing where to find legitimate help can protect you from fraud and ensure you receive the benefits you've earned through your service.
Common VA Disability Scams
Scammers charge large upfront fees (often $3,000-$10,000) to help with VA claims, promising guaranteed ratings or faster processing.
⚠️ Legitimate VSOs and accredited representatives help file claims for FREE.
Companies promise a specific disability rating (e.g., '100% guaranteed') before even reviewing your case.
⚠️ No one can guarantee a specific VA rating. Only the VA determines ratings based on medical evidence.
Some companies coach veterans to exaggerate symptoms or fabricate conditions to get higher ratings.
⚠️ This is fraud and can result in criminal charges, loss of benefits, and prison time.
Scammers convince veterans to restructure assets to qualify for VA pension benefits, charging high fees and putting veterans' financial security at risk.
⚠️ Consult with legitimate financial advisors and accredited VA representatives before making major financial decisions.
Individuals or companies claim to be 'VA experts' or 'consultants' but are not accredited by the VA to represent veterans.
⚠️ Only work with VA-accredited representatives. Verify accreditation at VA.gov.
Scammers use high-pressure tactics, claiming 'limited time offers' or that you'll lose benefits if you don't act immediately.
⚠️ Legitimate help is always available. Never make rushed decisions about your VA benefits.
- 🚩Requests for large upfront fees or payment before services are rendered
- 🚩Guarantees of specific disability ratings or benefit amounts
- 🚩Pressure to sign contracts or make immediate decisions
- 🚩Claims of 'insider connections' at the VA or ability to expedite claims
- 🚩Requests for your VA.gov login credentials or personal information
- 🚩Coaching to exaggerate symptoms or fabricate medical conditions
- 🚩Unsolicited contact via phone, email, or social media
- 🚩Lack of VA accreditation or refusal to provide credentials
- 🚩Promises that seem too good to be true
Where to Find Legitimate Help
Accredited VSOs provide FREE help with VA claims, appeals, and benefits.
Examples: DAV, VFW, American Legion, AMVETS, Paralyzed Veterans of America, and many others
Learn MoreAccredited attorneys and claims agents can help with appeals and complex cases. They can only charge fees for representation after VA issues an initial decision.
Learn MoreMany states and counties employ veterans service officers who provide FREE assistance with VA claims.
Learn MoreVA staff at regional offices can answer questions and help with claims at no cost.
Learn MoreBefore working with anyone on your VA claim, verify they are accredited by the VA:
- Visit the VA's Office of General Counsel website
- Search the accreditation database for the person or organization
- Verify their accreditation status is current and active
- Ask to see their accreditation credentials
If you suspect you've been targeted by a scam or have been a victim of fraud, report it immediately:
Federal Trade Commission:
Website: reportfraud.ftc.gov
FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center:
Website: ic3.gov
Remember: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. The VA claims process is free, and legitimate help is available at no cost.