Protecting Veterans from VA Claims Predators (7 Warning Signs)

December 6, 2024 ---- Category: General Knowledge

When veterans return home from service, they often face a new battle: navigating the complex VA disability claims process. Unfortunately, this challenging time has attracted numerous predatory individuals and organizations looking to exploit veterans for financial gain. These “claims sharks” specifically target veterans during their most vulnerable moments, promising quick approvals and maximum benefits while hiding their true intentions.

What are Claims Sharks?

Claims sharks are unlicensed, unaccredited individuals or organizations that prey on veterans seeking VA disability benefits. They often present themselves as veteran advocates or claims experts, using official-sounding company names and websites to appear legitimate. While they promise to help veterans secure benefits, their real goal is to profit from veterans’ circumstances rather than provide genuine assistance.

What makes these predators particularly dangerous is their ability to blend in with legitimate service providers. They study VA terminology, use military jargon, and may even be former service members themselves. This familiarity helps them gain veterans’ trust before exploiting them financially.

7 Warning Signs of Claims Sharks

1. Demanding Upfront Fees

  • Requesting payment before providing any actual services
  • Claiming special “filing fees” are required

2. Guaranteeing Specific Ratings

  • Promising certain disability percentage ratings
  • Claiming they can guarantee claim approval

3. Refusing to Show Credentials

  • Unable to provide VA accreditation information
  • Avoiding questions about their qualifications

4. Using High-Pressure Tactics

  • Pushing for immediate decisions
  • Creating artificial urgency about filing deadlines

5. Claiming “Special Access”

  • Boasting about connections within the VA
  • Suggesting they have insider influence

6. Requesting Login Credentials

  • Asking for your eBenefits or VA.gov login information
  • Wanting to access your VA account directly

7. Offering Payment Buyouts

  • Proposing to “buy” your future disability payments
  • Suggesting high-interest advance payments

How Veterans Are Exploited

The financial impact of claims sharks on veterans can be devastating. These predators often target veterans who are already struggling financially, making their exploitation even more harmful. They might charge thousands of dollars in unnecessary fees, sell inappropriate financial products, or even commit identity theft using veterans’ personal information.

One common tactic involves charging excessive fees for simply filling out basic VA forms – documents that Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) and County Veterans Service Officers will complete for free. Some sharks even convince veterans to restructure their assets or create trusts, charging substantial fees for financial services that actually harm the veteran’s benefits eligibility.

Finding Legitimate Help

The good news is that there are many legitimate ways to get help with your VA disability claim. The VA recognizes three types of accredited representatives who can legally assist veterans with their claims:

VA-Accredited Claims Agents are professionals who have undergone rigorous certification processes, including comprehensive testing and background checks. They must maintain continuing education requirements and follow strict ethical guidelines. (We are VA-Accredited Claims Agents!)

Veterans Service Organizations provide free claims assistance through trained service officers. Organizations like the VFW, American Legion, and DAV have decades of experience helping veterans navigate the claims process.

Accredited Attorneys specialize in veterans law and can represent veterans during appeals. Their fee structures are regulated by the VA to protect veterans’ interests.

Protecting Yourself

The best defense against claims sharks is knowledge and vigilance. Before working with anyone on your VA claim, verify their credentials through the VA’s Office of General Counsel website. Never pay upfront fees for initial claims assistance, and be extremely wary of anyone pressuring you to make quick decisions about your benefits.

Keep detailed records of all communications and documents related to your claim. If someone claims to be helping you, make sure you understand exactly what services they’re providing and what, if any, fees are involved. Remember that many excellent resources are available completely free of charge.

Free Resources Available

County Veterans Service Officers work in local government offices across the country, providing free, professional assistance with VA claims. These trained professionals understand the claims process and can help you navigate it successfully without charging any fees.

VA Regional Offices also offer direct assistance from VA staff who can help you understand your benefits and start the claims process. Additionally, Veterans Service Organizations maintain service officers at many VA facilities and in communities nationwide, ready to help veterans free of charge.

You can search for VA-Accredited Representatives through the VA’s website here.

You Fought for Your Country – Don’t Let Claims Sharks Take Advantage of Your Service

If you encounter someone you suspect is a claims shark, report them to the VA Office of Inspector General. Your report could help protect other veterans from falling victim to the same scam. The Federal Trade Commission and your state’s attorney general’s office are also interested in reports of veterans’ benefits fraud. If you’re unsure about someone’s legitimacy, reach out to your local VA Regional Office or Veterans Service Organization for guidance. 

Our VA-Accredited team here at Veterans Disability Aid supports our country’s veterans. If you or a loved one needs support with appealing a VA disability claim, contact us today

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