If you’re a veteran planning to file a VA disability claim, you may be weighing whether to work with a VA accredited agent or a veterans service officer (VSO). While both can provide assistance with your claim, there are some key differences to consider. This post will break down the pros and cons of accredited agents vs. VSOs.
Accredited Agents
Pros
- Private sector expertise. Accredited agents are not VA employees – they are often lawyers or claims professionals working in the private sector. This outside expertise can be beneficial.
- Attorney representation. Only accredited attorneys have the ability to provide legal representation if you appeal your claim to higher levels like the Board of Veterans’ Appeals.
- Fee options. Accredited agents may charge fees for their services, while VSOs cannot. The ability to pay for assistance may appeal to some veterans.
Cons:
- Potential costs. While VA caps agent fees at 20% of retroactive benefits awarded, hiring an accredited agent still means paying out-of-pocket for assistance.
- Profit motivations. Some argue that the ability to earn fees means agents are not always motivated solely by veterans’ best interests.
Veterans Service Officers
Pros
- Free assistance. VSOs do not charge fees, so you can get claims help at no cost. Many are very knowledgeable about the process.
- Veterans-first mindset. Since VSOs are often associated with veteran nonprofit groups and do not earn fees, their top priority is the veteran’s interests.
- Established reputation. Large VSOs like the American Legion and DAV are well recognized by the VA with established track records.
Cons
- Limited direct representation. VSOs can assist with claims, but only accredited attorneys can provide actual legal representation in appeals.
- Office availability. Local VSO offices may have limited staff availability compared to a dedicated agent you hire.
- Mixed quality. VSO claims knowledge varies, so you may not always receive expert-level assistance.
As you can see, there are good reasons to consider either option when filing your VA disability claim. Think about your budget, need for legal expertise, and any personal preferences to decide which makes the most sense for your situation. Both accredited agents and VSOs play important roles in helping veterans through the process.
Still on the fence? Contact us for a free consultation.