US VET HELP

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Find Free, Accredited Help

You never have to pay to file a VA claim, and trained help is free. Here's how to find a VA-accredited representative, verify them in 30 seconds, and steer clear of the "claim sharks" who take a cut of your back pay.

Start here — the official VA search

The VA's own directory finds accredited VSOs, attorneys, and claims agents near you.

Find a representative on VA.gov →
Verify anyone before you sign. Only VA-accredited people can legally represent you. Check any name against the VA's accreditation database — if they're not listed, walk away.
Verify accreditation (VA OGC) →

Three kinds of accredited help

Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) — always free

DAV, VFW, American Legion, and your State or County Veterans Service Officer file claims for veterans at no charge, ever. For most claims this is the best first stop. County VSOs are often the most accessible and know local resources.

Accredited attorneys

Can charge a fee only after the VA issues a decision you're appealing — never for a first claim, and never before a decision. Fees are regulated (commonly 20–33% of past-due benefits) and must be reasonable. Best for complex appeals.

Accredited claims agents

Independent, VA-tested representatives under the same fee rules as attorneys. Another appeals option if you don't want a VSO or law firm.

National VSOs

Free, chartered service organizations with accredited reps nationwide. Find your local chapter through each site.

DAVDisabled American Veterans VFWVeterans of Foreign Wars American LegionBenefits assistance PVAParalyzed Veterans of America AMVETSNational Service Program VVAVietnam Veterans of America

Prefer your state or county office?

Every state runs a Department of Veterans Affairs with free accredited service officers; most counties do too. Find yours through the national directory.

State veterans agencies directory (NASDVA) →

Tip: search "[your county] veterans service officer" — a county VSO is often the fastest, most personal free help you can get.

Avoid the "claim sharks"

Unaccredited companies advertise "we get you 100%" and then take a big cut of your back pay or charge monthly. That's not allowed for accredited reps — and taking a percentage of a first-time claim is illegal. Red flags:

❌ Wants a percentage of your back pay for an initial claim
❌ Charges a fee before any VA decision
❌ Not listed in the VA accreditation database
❌ Guarantees a rating or pressures you to sign fast
The rule of thumb: if someone wants money to file your first claim, or wants a cut before the VA has decided anything, stop. Free accredited help can do the same work.

Working with a rep and want a second set of eyes on your file first?

Have us read your file →

Educational directory of official and national resources. US Vet Help is not a VSO and does not represent veterans; we help you understand and prepare, then connect you with free accredited help. Only VA-accredited VSOs, attorneys, and claims agents may represent you before the VA (38 CFR 14.626–14.637). Fee rules: no fees for initial claims; attorneys/agents may charge only for work after an initial VA decision (38 U.S.C. 5904). Verify any representative at the VA OGC accreditation search. Not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.