Calls from lawmakers for immediate VA intervention to shield veterans from a notable rise in disability claims scams. Veterans seeking benefits, especially those related to the recent PACT Act expansion, are often exploited by unaccredited individuals and companies through these scams. Veterans lost $350 million because of fraud in 2023 alone.

Key Points

• Legislators are calling on the VA to improve data privacy, awareness, and website accessibility.
• False promises of quick claim processing and exorbitant fees are typical in scams.
• The PACT Act has caused a rise in scams directed at veterans.
• The objective of the GUARD VA Benefits Act is to make it illegal for unaccredited representatives to charge unauthorized fees.

Congressional Action

A group of 29 bipartisan members of Congress, headed by Rep. Seth Magaziner, sent a letter to VA Secretary Denis McDonough to complain about the growing number of scams that target veterans. The lawmakers stressed the importance of the VA enhancing its website and improving online accessibility for accredited Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs). The VA was also interrogated about its initiatives to ensure the protection of veterans’ data and privacy.

Rep. Abigail Spanberger pointed out the increased risk of scams for veterans, which is twice as high as the general population. VA updates were requested by her and her colleagues regarding steps to safeguard veterans, especially those applying for benefits under the PACT Act.

The GUARD VA Benefits Act

Congressman Chris Pappas introduced the GUARD VA Benefits Act to impose criminal penalties on unaccredited claim representatives charging unauthorized fees. The Act has received support from both sides and seeks to shield veterans from exploitative practices.

The GUARD VA Benefits Act has received support from Attorney General Rob Bonta and 44 other attorneys general. Congress was urged to pass legislation safeguarding veterans from financial exploitation.

Common Scams and Prevention

Charging exorbitant fees, scammers promise unrealistic claim processing times or high disability ratings. High-pressure sales, misleading information, and false promises are commonly used tactics. It is highly recommended by experts that veterans seek help only from VA-accredited claims agents, attorneys, and VSOs.

To steer clear of scams, veterans should:

• Validate the credibility of individuals or companies offering aid.
• Don’t pay any fees for initial claims, as it’s illegal to charge for this service.
• Utilize VA-accredited representatives when handling claims and appeals.

To learn how to protect yourself from scams, go to VSAFE.gov or dial 1-833-38V-SAFE.

Sources

• Lawmakers Urge VA Action Amid Surge in Scams Targeting Veterans–MeriTalk, MeriTalk.
• Spanberger Urges the VA to Crack Down on Scams Targeting Veterans – Abigail Spanberger, Abigail Spanberger (.gov).
• Pappas Leads Call for VA to Protect Veterans Filing Benefits Claims from Predatory Actors | Congressman Chris Pappas, Congressman Chris Pappas | (.gov).
• Attorney General Bonta Supports Federal Legislation Protecting Veterans from Financial Exploitation | State of California – Department of Justice – Office of the Attorney General, State of California – Department of Justice (.gov).
• Here’s how to protect yourself against VA benefits scammers, Audacy.