Educational overview

Understanding your options for help

Many people wonder who can help with a VA claim. This page explains the main kinds of accredited help in plain language, so you can understand the differences. It does not recommend any specific person or service.

What "accredited" means

The VA recognizes certain people as "accredited" to help with claims. Accreditation is a formal status that means someone has met the VA's requirements to assist. It is worth understanding this term because it comes up often.

Accredited help generally falls into three groups: Veterans Service Officers, accredited attorneys, and accredited claims agents. Each works a little differently.

Three kinds of accredited help

Veterans Service Officers (VSOs)

Representatives connected to recognized organizations who assist veterans. Their help is typically offered at no cost.

Accredited attorneys

Lawyers accredited by the VA. Rules limit when and how they may charge fees for claim work.

Accredited claims agents

Individuals accredited by the VA to assist with claims, who are not attorneys.

Veterans Network Champions Club

VNCC is a separate company with its own terms and fees, and using it is entirely optional. A member of VNCC works on ClaimAnchor — we tell you this plainly so the choice stays yours. ClaimAnchor is not paid by VNCC. VNCC is not the VA and is not VA-accredited or VA-endorsed.

Questions people often think through

People often consider whether they want help that is free, whether their situation is straightforward or complex, and how comfortable they feel handling paperwork on their own.

There is no single right answer. Understanding the options is the first step, and you can always learn more before deciding anything.

How to verify accreditation

The VA publishes information about who is accredited. Checking a person’s accreditation directly is a reliable way to confirm their status.

A free option

Free — VA-accredited help through VA.gov: https://www.va.gov/get-help-from-accredited-representative/find-rep

A note on ClaimAnchor

ClaimAnchor is a preparation tool, not an accredited representative, and is not the VA. This page is educational and does not recommend or refer any specific provider.

Frequently asked questions

Does ClaimAnchor represent me before the VA?

No. ClaimAnchor is a private preparation workspace. It is not accredited and does not represent anyone before the VA.

Is a VSO the same as an attorney?

No. They are different kinds of accredited help with different roles. This page explains the differences so you can understand your options.

How do I know if someone is accredited?

The VA publishes accreditation information. Verifying it directly is the most reliable way to confirm someone’s status.

Prepare with confidence

However you choose to get help, organized records and clear statements make everything easier. ClaimAnchor helps you prepare.

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