Shark!, Shark!, Oh No!, It’s a Claim Shark!

by Scott Thorsness, State Service Officer Office of Veterans Advocacy Idaho Division of Veterans Services

In the last few years there have been laws passed allowing for increased access to VA Disability Compensation Benefits.

For example, the Camp Lejeune Act, providing certain disabilities to be recognized because of the toxins in the drinking water at that location. Most recently, the passing of the Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act of 2022.

The PACT Act was BIG NEWS in the VA disability world. Because of this, there are many out there who know money can me made on the backs of disabled veterans. This caused a massive spike in the appearance of “unaccredited” VA disability claims representatives whom we refer to as “Claim Sharks.” limited

Why is this important?

When you utilize an “accredited” claims representative, you are utilizing an individual who is subject to VA standards. These standards are met when a claims representative completes the necessary training, ensuring one receives qualified assistance in preparing claims. The claim sharks are not subject to those same standards and may use various methods to circumvent regulatory oversight.

Because a claim shark is not subject to the VA standards, they can charge the veteran and or their family any amount they see fit, which is in many cases, thousands upon thousands of dollars.

When you utilize a veteran representative from one of the numerous veteran service organizations, such as the VFW, DAV, American Legion, et.al., those services are “Free!” Even if you utilize an accredited attorney or claims agent, they are limited on the amount they can receive as payment, unlike the claim sharks.

How serious is the problem of claim sharks? So serious, that there has been recent bipartisan legislation in Congress, attempting to eliminate the often predatory and unethical practices of those who prey on veterans from for-profit companies.

How does one protect themselves from such an individual or company? First, don’t believe everything you read or hear. Simply because their brochures or websites are “Red, White, and Blue” doesn’t mean they have your best interest at the forefront. You can also validate if an individual or firm is accredited by utilizing the VA’s Office of General Counsel website at: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/ By entering the name and/or location, you can ensure you will find an accredited representative. And. if the person or firm is not on the list, don’t use them!

In our area, and listed in the pages of this magazine, you will find your local veteran representatives who have been through the proper accreditation. Also, for our rural representatives who haven’t been able to attend any accreditation training, they are overseen by your Idaho Division of Veteran Service Officers (VSO).