VA-Accredited Representatives (VSOs, Attorneys, Claims Agents)

Free help with a VA claim from a VA-accredited Veterans Service Organization representative, or paid help from an accredited attorney or claims agent after an initial decision.

Also called: VSO, accredited representative, claims agent, VA attorney, power of attorney, VA Form 21-22, claim shark.

For: Veteran or service member.

Where it applies

Applies in states and territories.

Federal

VA's Office of General Counsel accredits three kinds of representatives under 38 C.F.R. 14.629: VSO representatives recommended by a VA-recognized Veterans Service Organization, attorneys in good standing with a state bar, and claims agents who pass a written exam on VA law. A VSO representative's help is always free. Accredited attorneys and agents generally may charge a fee only after VA has decided an initial claim, and the fee must be reasonable; a fee of 20% or less of past-due benefits withheld by VA is presumed reasonable, and more than 33 1/3% is presumed unreasonable. Anyone who charges to prepare an initial claim, or who is not accredited, is not allowed to represent a veteran before VA. Search VA's accreditation database before signing anything, and appoint a representative on VA Form 21-22 (VSO) or 21-22a (attorney or agent).

Thresholds

No rating or income gate is recorded. Read the detail and the official source.

Sources

Updated

Last updated 2026-10-08.

What changed then:

First published.

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Disclaimer

VetTOC is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or the Department of Defense. Information is for reference only and is not an eligibility determination. Verify with VA, the relevant state or territory, or an accredited VSO.