Veterans and caregivers: Recognize VA benefits overpayment scams

Got a letter in the mail from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) saying you owe money due to an overpayment of your benefits? You might be wondering: Was I really overpaid? How much do I need to pay back? To get real answers to questions like these, always start by logging into your VA.gov account.

If your VA.gov account shows you owe money, know the VA offers repayment help for free. But scammers will tell you different and try to convince you to pay them instead. Some scammers pretend to be someone from the VA to trick you into sending them your money or sensitive information. Some might even use names, seals, and logos that look or sound like legit organizations to trick you into paying a scammer for help that’s actually free.

If you’re managing VA debt for benefit overpayments, here’s how to take scammers out of the equation:

• Only manage VA debt for overpayments through the VA. Use VA.gov sites to check the status of your debt, set up a repayment plan, or request a waiver. Or call the VA’s debt management call center at 1-800-827-0648. Scammers use official-looking names, seals, logos, and websites to seem legit. If someone sends you to a site outside of VA.gov or tells you to call a different phone number, walk away.
• Don’t share your VA login credentials or password. The VA won’t ask you to share that information, but a scammer will. Set up strong passwords and multi-factor authentication on your VA accounts.
• Never pay an upfront fee. Need help filing claims or requesting decision reviews? Find an VA accredited representative to help you — for free. If someone says you have to pay them before they’ll help you, that’s a scam.

Learn more about VA benefits scams and report scams at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.