The right help starts with the right person.

The short answer

Use VA's official resources to check accreditation. Ask the person to explain their role and any fees before you commit.

When you need help, a confident promise can sound like a plan. But choosing someone to work on a claim deserves a few concrete questions first. Who are they? What is their role? What will you be asked to sign?

Those questions are not an obstacle to getting support. They are a way to make the next conversation more useful.

Know which role you are looking for.

VA identifies three kinds of accredited representatives: Veterans Service Organization representatives, attorneys and claims agents. VA says accredited VSO representatives can help with evidence, claims and decision reviews, and that their services on VA benefit claims are free. [1]

VA also explains that accredited attorneys and claims agents may charge for services after an initial claim decision when the applicable requirements are met. Discuss the arrangement with the representative and read VA's explanation before agreeing to it. [1]

General education and a resource directory can help you find a starting point. They do not establish that a person is accredited to represent you.

Bring better questions to the first conversation.

Here is a practical discussion list you can take with you:

• How can I confirm your accreditation through VA?
• Which parts of this process will you help with?
• Is there a fee? If so, what agreement explains it?
• What should I bring, and how should I share it securely?
• How will we communicate about the next step?

Keep your own notes. If an answer is unclear, ask the person to explain it in ordinary language. You do not need to pretend you understand an agreement to keep a conversation moving.

Make the first step specific.

You do not need to solve every question today. Start by identifying a representative, checking their status and arranging a conversation. A clear next step is more useful than a long list you never return to.

Your next step: check the person, then start the conversation.

Open VA's official representative finder: https://www.va.gov/get-help-from-accredited-representative/find-rep/

Sources you can check

• [1] U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, VA accredited representative FAQs (agency page updated August 8, 2024; checked September 24, 2026): https://www.va.gov/resources/va-accredited-representative-faqs/
• [2] U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Find a VA-accredited representative or VSO: https://www.va.gov/get-help-from-accredited-representative/find-rep/

Role and fee statements above are sourced to VA. The conversation checklist is editorial guidance.