Veterans seeking help with disability claims and other benefits are being urged to use caution when dealing with private companies that charge for assistance with the Department of Veterans Affairs claims process.
Manatee County Veterans Services is reminding veterans and their families to watch for warning signs that may indicate a claims company is using questionable or predatory practices. These can include charging fees to file or increase a VA claim, guaranteeing a particular disability rating, promising faster decisions, using contracts with hidden fees or requesting a veteran’s VA.gov or eBenefits login credentials.
Veterans should never provide their VA account usernames, passwords or other login credentials to a claims company. They should also carefully review contracts before signing and be cautious about agreements requiring payment from future benefits.
Another warning sign is a company advising veterans to skip VA-scheduled examinations or directing them to use particular medical providers. Veterans should attend examinations scheduled by the VA unless instructed otherwise by the agency.
Florida lawmakers addressed concerns involving paid veterans-benefit services through legislation passed in 2025. Among its provisions are disclosure requirements intended to make veterans aware when paid providers are not affiliated with the VA or Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs and when similar assistance may be available at no cost.
Free help is available locally through Manatee County Veterans Services, as well as through VA-accredited Veterans Service Organizations, claims agents and attorneys. Accredited representatives can assist veterans with understanding the claims process and applying for benefits for which they may qualify.
Manatee County Veterans Services is located at 1401 Third Ave. W., Bradenton, and can be reached at 941-745-3795.
Veterans can also search for accredited representatives through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs accreditation directory.
Suspected fraud involving veterans’ benefits can be reported to the VA Office of Inspector General at 1-800-488-8244 or to the Florida Attorney General’s Office at 1-866-9-NO-SCAM.
