Frequently Asked Questions

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Veteran Advocacy Group is a VA Accredited Claims Agent whose mission is to provide expert support to our nations Veterans through claims, appeals and other benefit related support.

We assist veterans with filing initial claims, compiling evidence, benefits reviews and Appeal reviews, filing and arguing claims before the BVA.

Our services are exclusively for veterans and their families.

Veteran Advocacy Group is not a Non-Profit organization. We do receive fees for some of our services so donations while appreciated are not necessary or permissible by law. However, we would be happy to refer you to ethical and reputable non-profit organizations that would benefit from such donations. Donations to these organizations help them to continue their mission of serving our nations Veterans in various ways. 

Most of our services are free to the Veteran, however; Services relating to the Appeal process may require a fee Agreement. The fee agreement is, in the event we are appointed to file an appeal for a denied claim, we will be compensated 20% of past due compensation (retroactive pay) directly by the VA upon a positive outcome of the appeal. Other fees may include reasonable costs associated with the appeal ie., travel costs, medical record fees etc. 

We will file initial claims for veterans on a case-by-case basis at no charge to the Veteran.

Remember, it is prohibited by law for anyone to charge a fee for filing initial claims!!

• The veteran will make appointment with our team for a free consultation. 
• We will work with the veteran during their consult to identify any benefits they currently have and others they may be entitled to.
• We will devise a plan of action for the veteran to pursue the benefits they have earned and are entitled to.
• If an initial claim will be filed by the Veteran, we will offer our support and knowledge of the claims process. 
• If an appeal to the BVA is needed and the veteran would like us to file their appeal, we will do an intake and file a POA with the VA appointing Veteran Advocacy group as their representative. following that, we will meet to go over the fee agreement, the veterans' rights and the laws that protect them as well as our engagement agreement.
• If Veterans Advocacy Group is appointed as the Veterans representative for an appeal, we will work with the Veteran to gather any evidence necessary for this process.

At any time, a Veteran or Family member needs advice or our assistance, we will do everything in our power to ensure they get the help they need whether it is by us, a local or state agency or a non-profit organization. 

It is always encouraged to continue with your current representative, however; there are certain instances where a new one is necessary. In these situations, we will file a form 21-22a which will appoint us as your new POA and will revoke the previous one. It is important to note that you should contact your current representative prior to appointing a new one to make them aware of the change.

You absolutely can represent yourself and we will assist you with the claim process if requested. It is highly recommended however, to have an accredited representative file for you as they have access to files and resources you may not. When it comes to the appeal process it will help your case to have an accredited representative by your side to argue your case before the board. 

A VA-accredited claims agent is a non-attorney professional officially recognized by the VA to prepare, present, and pursue veterans’ benefit claims.

What a VA-Accredited Claims Agent Is

A VA-accredited claims agent is an individual who has undergone a formal application, character review, and written examination process administered by the VA Office of General Counsel (OGC) to ensure they are qualified to assist veterans and their families with VA benefits claims. Unlike attorneys, claims agents are not required to hold a law license but must demonstrate competence in VA law and procedures through testing and continuing education.

Accreditation Process

To become accredited, a claims agent must:

· Pass a character and fitness review to confirm moral integrity and trustworthiness. 

· Successfully complete a written examination on VA benefits law, regulations, and procedures. 

· Fulfill Continuing Legal Education (CLE) requirements to stay current with changes in VA law and policy. 

· Certify annually that they remain in good standing and continue to meet VA standards.

Role and Responsibilities

VA-accredited claims agents can:

· Prepare, present, and pursue VA claims for compensation, pensions, education, healthcare, home loans, life insurance, and burial benefits. 

· Assist with appeals or requests for review of adverse VA decisions. 

· Access VA claims files through the Veteran Benefits Management System (VBMS) to gather evidence and manage claims efficiently. 

· Provide legal and procedural guidance while adhering to strict ethical standards.

Differences from Other VA Representatives

· VSOs (Veterans Service Organization representatives) are affiliated with non-profit or government organizations and provide services free of charge, while claims agents operate independently and may charge fees contingent on successful claims. 

· Attorneys are licensed legal professionals; claims agents are non-attorneys but must pass VA-specific exams and maintain accreditation. 

· Claims agents are fewer in number (around 500 nationwide) and often provide specialized, focused representation for complex claims.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Only VA-accredited representatives, including claims agents, are legally authorized to assist veterans in preparing, presenting, or prosecuting claims. Using non-accredited individuals can violate federal law and may jeopardize a veteran’s claim. Accredited agents are held to rigorous ethical standards to protect veterans’ interests. 

In summary, a VA-accredited claims agent is a highly trained, non-attorney professional authorized by the VA to provide expert assistance with veterans’ benefits claims, ensuring legal compliance, ethical representation, and specialized knowledge of VA procedures.