VA BENEFITS REFERENCE
VSO Vs Claims Agent Vs Attorney
All three types of VA-accredited representatives can help with benefits claims. The useful comparison is the work you need, the person available to do it, and the terms of the representation.
Start With The Work You Need
Bring your latest decision, the issue you want help with, and any response deadline to the first conversation. Ask whether the representative handles initial claims, Supplemental Claims, Higher-Level Reviews, or Board appeals. VA describes claim preparation, evidence gathering, decision review, and communication with VA as work accredited representatives can perform.
Explain what you have already filed and who currently represents you. Ask who will review your records, who will answer questions, and how you will receive copies of submissions. A title alone does not answer those practical questions.
Understand Free VSO Representation
An accredited Veterans Service Organization representative provides assistance on VA benefit claims without charging you. You generally appoint the recognized organization, so another accredited representative within that organization may also work on the case. Ask which organization belongs on the appointment form, particularly when you meet someone at a county or state office.
Free assistance can include help requesting decision review, not just filing the first application. Contact the office to confirm availability and the kind of work it can accept.
Compare Agents And Attorneys
A VA-accredited claims agent has met VA requirements that include passing an examination on benefits law and procedure. An accredited attorney must also belong to a state bar in good standing. Both can assist with evidence and legal arguments in proceedings before VA, including the Board of Veterans' Appeals.
VA accreditation concerns representation before VA. Do not assume it establishes qualifications for unrelated financial planning or every other legal problem. If you need help outside the VA claim, ask about that separate service and its qualifications.
Discuss Fees Before Signing
VSO claim services remain free. Attorneys and agents cannot charge you for preparing and filing an initial disability claim before VA issues its initial decision. Some provide that assistance without charge. After the initial decision, fees may be permitted when the applicable appointment and fee-agreement requirements are met.
Ask what the agreement covers, how fees are calculated, whether expenses are separate, and what happens if representation ends. Paid representation does not establish that a claim will succeed.
Confirm The Appointment
Check the individual in VA's accreditation directory, then contact them before appointing them. Use Form 21-22 for a VSO or Form 21-22a for an accredited attorney or agent. Both sides must sign the appointment.
Keep the completed form and submission confirmation. Ask the office to confirm its responsibilities for any pending deadline. Choosing someone informally and submitting a valid appointment are separate steps.
Continue Reading
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a VSO help after a denial?
Yes. VA describes decision-review assistance as part of the work accredited VSO representatives can provide. Ask the particular office about availability and scope.
Does VA assign me a representative?
No. VA says it does not automatically assign one. Check whether you previously appointed someone before making a new appointment.
Official Sources
Last verified 2026-10-25. Source publication or legal effective dates are shown separately where available.
- www.va.gov/resources/va-accredited-representative-faqs/
- www.va.gov/get-help-from-accredited-representative/
- www.va.gov/forms/21-22/
- www.va.gov/ogc/accreditation.asp
- www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-14.636
- www.va.gov/OGC/docs/Accred/TipsonFeeAgreementsforVeteransClaims.pdf
- www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-14.631
- www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/index.asp
Check The Source. Get Accredited Help.
Use this resource to understand published information. VA and the official decision control individual benefits.