How would you like to get help?

There is more than one kind of help with a VA claim. Pick the path that fits where you are. All of it is free to explore here.

Free help from a Veterans Service Organization

VSO Organization Browse Veterans Service Organizations by name and see the reps each one sponsors. VSO Representative Free, VA-accredited reps at Veterans Service Organizations. Search by ZIP, state, or name and read veteran reviews.

Accredited help that may charge a fee

Accredited Claims Agent Independent, VA-accredited agents who handle claims and appeals. May charge a fee, usually only on appeals. Accredited Attorney VA-accredited lawyers for appeals and complex cases. May charge a fee, usually only on appeals.

Research on your own

Other Help and Information Online Trusted community forums, videos, and official VA pages for researching your claim.

Before you appoint anyone, verify them with the VA

The VA keeps separate records for recognized Veterans Service Organizations and accredited individual representatives. Search the person by name and confirm the organization separately. If a person or organization does not appear in the VA Office of General Counsel search, they are not currently authorized to represent a claimant, although an application may still be pending.

Reviews tell you how other veterans were treated. Accreditation tells you whether the person is authorized to represent you. Use both before you choose.

What VA accreditation actually means

Verify accreditation with the VA Search representatives and veteran reviews

VSO representatives are always free. Accredited claims agents and attorneys are allowed to charge a fee, but usually only for work on an appeal, never for filing an initial claim. Always confirm fees in writing before you sign anything.