The Department of Veterans Affairs continues to process disability claims at a historic volume. In fiscal year 2024, VA reported completing more than 2.4 million disability compensation claims, a pace that has carried into 2025 as toxic‑exposure and post‑deployment conditions keep surfacing in the system.
Even with that throughput, the claims backlog remains large enough to strain families and finances. VA’s weekly backlog report shows tens of thousands of compensation and pension claims waiting beyond the agency’s 125‑day target.
Layer in an initial denial rate around 36% in FY2024, and you get the reality many veterans live with: long waits, uncertain outcomes, and the pressure to “get it right the first time.”
When a system feels this slow and unpredictable, veterans understandably look for help. That need is legitimate. The problem is that it also attracts bad actors—unaccredited “claim companies” that promise the world, charge extreme fees, or operate in ways the VA has repeatedly warned veterans to avoid.
What kinds of tactics do claim sharks use, and what can veterans do to protect themselves? The medical‑evidence consultants at REE Medical break down what ethical support looks like—and how to recognize a predator before you sign anything.
How to Spot a VA Claims Bad Actor
Reputable support companies stay in their lane. They explain what they do in plain language, price services fairly, and protect your privacy with clear, written policies. They don’t rush you, and they don’t pretend to control the VA’s decision.
Bad actors do the opposite. You can often spot them by how they advertise and what they ask you to sign. For instance, claim sharks may:
- Charge arbitrary or excessive fees
- Require payment up front or ask for a cut of future benefits
- Guarantee a specific rating or approval
- Fail to disclose free options like VSOs or accredited representatives
- Ask for VA.gov login credentials or sensitive banking details
- Hide or weaken privacy protections
- Make cancellation difficult once you’re under contract
Learning how these companies operate is the simplest way to avoid them—and to keep your claim (and your benefits) under your control.
Common VA Claims Predator Tactics
Predators tend to recycle the same playbook. Some tactics are high‑pressure sales. Others are outright lies. Either way, they’re designed to get you to sign quickly, before you’ve had time to compare options.
1. Guaranteeing a Positive Outcome
Beware of any consultant who guarantees a 100% rating or a specific percentage. VA raters and medical evidence control the VA’s ratings process, and decisions are made on a case-by-case basis. No private company can legally promise an outcome.
A reputable medical‑evidence company can improve your chances by helping you document a current diagnosis, functional impact, and strong VA‑format medical opinions. That strengthens your file—but it is not a guarantee.
2. Offering Expedited Processing
Illegal claim scammers do not have a special way to move you to the front of the line. Expedited options exist, but they are VA programs you can pursue on your own or with accredited assistance.
- Priority processing is available for qualifying circumstances (hardship, terminal illness, advanced age, homelessness, and more). Veterans request this using VA Form 20‑10207.
- Faster decisions are also more likely when a claim is fully developed and filed electronically.
If a company says it can “expedite you” outside VA rules, that is a red flag.
3. Claiming Special Relationships or Access
Some bad actors suggest they “know someone at the VA” or have inside pull. They don’t. All claims are reviewed under the same standards, and there is no legal back channel for influence.
4. Requiring Payment or Fees Upfront
Predators often demand payment before you understand what you’ll receive or whether any real value is being delivered. They may even push veterans to borrow money to cover fees.
Ethical firms are transparent about pricing, tie costs to clear deliverables, and never take a percentage of lifetime benefits.
5. No Clear Data or Privacy Policy
All reputable companies should be able to show you a written privacy policy that explains how your data is collected, stored, and protected. If they can’t—or if they ask for VA passwords or direct‑deposit details—walk away.
6. Using Offshore or Unverifiable Call Centers
Unsolicited calls from unknown or foreign numbers promising big ratings are a warning sign. Legitimate firms don’t rely on cold‑call pressure to earn trust.
VA Form 20‑10207 information and download: VA priority processing request
How to Protect Yourself
The best way to safeguard your benefits is to slow the process down before you sign anything. Ethical help will still be there tomorrow.
- Beware of anyone charging for guaranteed approval or a promised rating.
- Remember: accredited VSOs file claims for free, and VA‑accredited attorneys or agents only charge within VA rules.
- Never share VA.gov or eBenefits login credentials, or direct‑deposit information.
- Don’t fall for aggressive ads, limited‑time offers, or scare language.
- Verify the company’s role: filing help, legal representation, or medical evidence. Real firms stay in one lane.
- Read every page before signing. Never sign blank forms or documents.
Know Where to Look for Legitimate Help
Free support through VSOs is a strong first option, but the system is crowded, and not every veteran can get timely one‑on‑one help. Ethical private companies exist to fill specific gaps—not to replace free or legal services.
If you’re considering medical‑evidence support, look for a firm that is transparent about scope, connects you with independent licensed physicians, provides VA‑format DBQs or nexus opinions in writing, and makes no promises about outcomes. Good evidence can shorten delays and reduce preventable denials, but the VA will always have the final say.
If you want to sanity‑check your situation with a team that focuses strictly on medical evidence—without pressure or outcome promises—you can book a free consultation with REE Medical.
