You should never have to pay anyone to file your first VA disability claim. Federal law bans charging for that help, whether it comes from a "consultant," a "coach" or even an attorney. Free, accredited help is available everywhere. This page explains who can legally help with your claim: Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs), county and state veterans service officers, and VA-accredited claims agents and attorneys. It shows you how to look anyone up in VA's accreditation search before you sign, and how to appoint or change a representative. You'll also learn what fees are allowed after VA's first decision, how to spot claim sharks and where to report them, and how to ask your member of Congress about a stalled claim. If your problem is with VA health care, you'll find out how to reach a VA Patient Advocate. It includes real-life examples, questions to ask a representative, a checklist, and links to VA's official pages and our related guides.

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Please note: Veterans Claims Education is a free education resource only. We do not assist with, prepare, file or represent veterans on VA claims, and we never charge fees. For help with your claim, contact a free accredited VSO or your county veterans service officer.