In recognition of National Salute to Veteran Patients Week, observed this week, Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday is honoring the state’s veterans and warning them to remain vigilant against scams targeting the veteran community.
According to the Office of Attorney General, veterans are often targeted by “claim predators” — individuals or companies that charge for services that are provided free through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or pressure veterans into signing over a portion of their earned benefits.
Sunday urged veterans and their families to be aware of services they are entitled to receive at no cost to avoid falling victim to scams.
The office said predatory companies frequently promise faster claims processing or higher disability ratings in exchange for unlawful fees. These solicitations may involve aggressive phone calls, emails, or text messages that pressure veterans into unfavorable contracts.
Officials advise veterans to watch for the following red flags:
- High fees for filing initial VA benefit claims
- Promises of expedited claims or guaranteed disability ratings
- Pressure to sign contracts for initial claims assistance
Veterans can verify whether a representative is properly accredited by using the VA’s Office of General Counsel Accreditation Search Tool.
For assistance with filing claims, veterans are encouraged to contact their County Director of Veterans Affairs. Certified Veteran Service Officers are available in every Pennsylvania county at no cost. Attorneys may only charge fees when handling appeals from denied claims.
Veterans who believe they may have been targeted by a scam are encouraged to report the activity to the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General.
