For the men and women who’ve served our country, navigating the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits system should be a path paved with support—not exploitation. Yet across the nation, a troubling trend is emerging: claims predators are targeting those who’ve already given so much.

These predatory companies and individuals often promise faster processing times or higher disability ratings in exchange for steep, unlawful fees. Their tactics are aggressive and manipulative, relying on emails, phone calls, and text messages to pressure Veterans into signing legally binding contracts that rarely serve their best interests.

If you or someone you know is seeking help with a VA claim, watch for these red flags:

• High Fees: No one should charge you to file an initial VA claim. Predators may demand a percentage of your benefit award or multiple payments.
• Dishonest Promises: Be wary of anyone guaranteeing a 100% disability rating or claiming they can “speed up” the process.
• Pressure to Sign: Never sign a contract agreeing to pay for help with your initial claim. Legitimate assistance is available, often at no cost.

Before sharing personal information or agreeing to representation, use the VA Accreditation Search Tool to confirm that your representative is officially accredited. Only VA-accredited attorneys and claims agents may charge fees—and only for appeals or supplemental claims, not initial filings.

Veterans have access to trusted support through:

• VA Accredited Attorneys
• VA Accredited Claims Agents
• VA Accredited Veterans Service Organization (VSO) Representatives

These professionals are trained in VA law and policy and are committed to helping Veterans without exploiting them.

• File your claim directly with the VA online or at any regional office.
• Learn more through the Claims Predators Fraud Prevention Campaign Toolkit.
• If you suspect fraud or unethical behavior, call 833-38V-SAFE or visit vsafe.gov.
• For payment issues or suspicious activity, contact the VA at 1-800-827-1000.

Claims predators prey on trust, urgency, and confusion. But with awareness, vigilance, and the right resources, we can protect our Veterans from these schemes and ensure their benefits are handled with the dignity and care they’ve earned.