Veterans: Don’t pay to apply for VA benefits

Scammers know that applying for veterans benefits is at the top of the to-do list when you’re getting ready to leave the military. That’s why they pretend to be with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and offer to help you apply for benefits if you pay them — even though it’s free to apply with the VA. So if you’re applying for veterans benefits, get the help you need while avoiding scams. Here’s how.

First, know how the scam works: You get an unexpected call, text, email, or message on social media from someone who says they’re reaching out about your veterans benefits. They might claim to work for the VA or say they’re “approved” by the VA. (But, really, they’re not.) They offer to help you do things like apply for benefits you’re “missing,” get you a 100% disability rating, or speed up the claims process — all for a fee.

Those are all scams. The VA will never charge you to apply for benefits. Accredited representatives and recognized Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) won’t charge you either, but scammers will. A few things to remember:

• Never pay to apply. Whether you apply online or in person at a VA Regional Office, the VA will help you gather and develop evidence to support your initial claim for VA benefits — for free.
• Apply directly to the VA. Only the VA can determine your eligibility and award benefits. Anything else is a scam. Only scammers guarantee you’ll get benefits or offer to help you skip the line. Not even accredited representatives can do that.
• Work with a VA accredited representative. Use the VA’s Accreditation Search tool to make sure that the person helping you is actually approved by the VA.

If you spot a VA impersonation scam, tell the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Then, tell your state attorney general.