VSO vs. claims agent vs. attorney: who can charge, and when

VA accredits three types of representatives. Only attorneys and claims agents may charge, and only after VA's initial decision.

The three types

VSO representatives are accredited through a VA-recognized Veterans Service Organization. VA says their services are always free.
Claims agents pass a written exam to be accredited.
Attorneys must be in good standing with a state bar.

When attorneys and claims agents may charge

Only after VA has decided your initial claim, and only with a fee agreement signed by both of you. VA notes some attorneys and agents help for free on initial claims, but most charge after the initial decision. VSOs may not charge at all.

Fees must be reasonable. Fees of up to 20% of past-due benefits are presumed reasonable; fees over 33⅓% are presumed unreasonable. When VA pays the fee directly from past-due benefits, the fee can't exceed 20%.

VA accreditation isn't an endorsement. Always check VA's accreditation search.

Sources: VA accredited representative FAQs; 38 CFR 14.636; 38 CFR 14.627; VA OGC accreditation

Checked November 9, 2026.

Before you choose anyone: Veterans Service Organization (VSO) representatives and government veterans service offices help for free. Accredited attorneys and claims agents generally may not charge for help with an initial claim, and may charge only after VA's initial decision on the claim, under 38 CFR 14.636.

claim.vet doesn't endorse anyone listed here and isn't paid by anyone listed here. Every representative listing comes from VA's Office of General Counsel. Always confirm accreditation on VA's official accreditation search.

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