If you’re a veteran filing a VA disability claim, it’s crucial to understand the risks posed by “VA Claim Sharks”—companies that claim to assist veterans but often operate outside the law, exploiting those who are already vulnerable. This article, part of our series on how to navigate the “4 Common Paths to Navigate Your Claims“, will help you recognize these predatory companies, understand their illegal practices, and provide guidance on choosing the right path for your benefits journey.
Warning Signs: How to Identify a “Claim Shark”
“Claim sharks“ are companies that prey on veterans by promising quick and easy success in their VA disability claims process.
Here are some key warning signs that you may be dealing with one:
- They Promise or Guarantee an Increase in Your VA Disability Rating: The Veterans Affairs prohibits anyone from guaranteeing an outcome in the disability claims process. According to the VA’s Office of General Counsel, any such guarantee is a major red flag and likely illegal.
- They Charge Fees Before the VA Makes a Decision on Your Claim: It is illegal to charge veterans upfront fees for assistance with VA claims before the claim has been decided. VA-accredited representatives can only receive payment after the VA has made a decision on the claim and if it results in a retroactive award of benefits.
- They Have No Licensed Medical Professionals on Their Service Teams: Companies lacking licensed medical professionals may not have the necessary expertise to develop and present the medical evidence needed to support your claim. Proper medical evidence is crucial to obtaining a fair disability rating.
Path 4: About Non-accredited, Non-medical Claims Companies
Veterans have several options for filing disability claims, but they should be particularly cautious of “claim sharks.“ These companies take advantage of people navigating this complex process.
These fraudulent companies may:
- Illegally file VA claims for veterans
- Illegally guarantee an increase in disability rating and monthly pay
- “Prepare, present and prosecute” claims on behalf of Veterans, when only VA-accredited representatives are allowed to participate in this specific activity
- Take unfair shares of Veterans’ disability pay after providing a low-quality service to Veterans.
Many of these companies also lack a medical focus and do not have the expertise to develop the most complete and accurate medical evidence. These predatory practices have placed claim shark companies in the crosshairs of regulatory agencies, jeopardizing their ability to support disability benefits journeys in the long term.
What You Should Know about VA Claims Sharks
- “Claim sharks” may illegally guarantee increased disability ratings.
- They may charge hidden fees or charge fees before a claim is filed.
- They may charge fees despite a denied claim or grossly underrated decision.
Veterans who end up on this path often ask:
- Am I being charged before the VA has reached a decision?
- Has this organization falsely promised me a successful claim?
- Do they fully understand my symptoms and how they may be connected to military service?
The Choice is Yours: Navigating the VA Claims Process
As a veteran seeking benefits, you can choose from several paths: self-representation, VSOs, claims attorneys, and more. Regardless of the path you choose, it’s essential that you ensure your complete medical story is presented to the VA. Accurate and comprehensive medical evidence is key to a successful VA disability claim, and ensuring that evidence is well-documented can greatly influence the outcome of your claim .
Focusing on Medical Evidence and documentation can help you take control of that story and disability benefits journey.
Trajector Medical: Your Trusted Partner in VA Disability Claims
At Trajector Medical, we provide professional services with a focus on developing precise and accurate medical evidence to support veterans in their benefits journey. Our team of licensed medical professionals has extensive experience in service-connected disabilities, helping veterans:
- Take ownership of their complete medical story.
- Seek medically accurate disability ratings.
- Enhance their benefits journey and quality of life.
- Access tailored healthcare solutions that best meet their needs.
Choosing the right partner for your VA disability claim is crucial. With Trajector Medical, you can rest assured that your claim is in the hands of experienced professionals who understand the complexities of the VA system and are committed to securing the benefits you legally and medically deserve.
