Veterans should be cautious of anyone who guarantees a lucrative financial benefit or service.

Tips to Avoid Scams

Do’s

  • Apply directly to VA. Veterans may submit applications for VA benefits securely or in person at any regional office. Veterans may file claims directly with VA, and VA will help gather the necessary evidence. There are no costs or hidden fees to apply.
  • Be cautious of companies that advertise that VA benefits can only be obtained with their help. These companies may not be recognized by the VA and may be attempting to charge illegal fees.
  • Be cautious of aggressive companies trying to pressure you to sign their contract through frequent communications or by insisting that “you must act now or lose your chance for benefits.”
  • Be cautious of companies who claim to be contacting you on behalf of the VA or to have a special relationship with the VA. Contact the VA at 1-800-827-1000 if you are unsure about the authenticity of any messages received.
  • Call the VA if you have questions or think benefits for a loved one are incorrect.
  • Make sure your family is aware of your end-of-life decisions and that you have documented those wishes.
  • Check for “https://” at the start of website addresses.
  • Enable multi-factor authentication on all accounts.
  • Work with Veteran service providers you already know.
  • Validate: If you want to work with a Veteran Service Organization (VSO), agent, or attorney, use the Office of General Counsel accreditation tool to confirm and validate their credentials.
  • Visit the Cybercrime Support Network for additional resources to help Veterans, service members, and their families combat cybercrime.

Don’ts

  • Do not sign a contract agreeing to pay an unauthorized company a percentage of your benefit payment in exchange for their assistance with your VA claim.
  • Do not sign a blank form for someone else to complete later. Always review the completed form before signing and keep a copy for yourself.
  • Do not be fooled by companies that advertise their special relationships with medical professionals and can guarantee your benefits award. If they are defrauding the Federal government, you could be held responsible for paying those benefits back.
  • Do not provide your social security number, medical records, or other personally identifiable information to anyone offering claims assistance before confirming their credentials using the Office of General Counsel accreditation tool.
  • Do not sign forms that are not VA generated or third-party authorization for someone to provide “behind-the-scenes” claims assistance.
  • Do not provide personal, benefits, medical, or financial details online or over the phone. Federal agencies will not contact you unless you make a request.
  • Do not click on online ads or engage with social media that seem suspicious.