Ahead of Veterans Day on Monday, the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office is warning veterans about a scam targeting them and family members.

So-called “claim shark” companies prey on those seeking Veterans Affairs benefits.

How it works

A claim shark is an individual or company that illegally charges fees to “assist” or “consult” veterans with filing claims for VA benefits.

Claim sharks are not VA-accredited as required by law. They target veterans or family members of veterans with aggressive and deceptive advertising. Then, they try to convince the veteran or family member to sign contracts with deceptive or unfair terms that require payment of large fees or even a percentage of benefit increases from claims, sometimes including claims that were filed with the VA before the contract with the claim shark was even signed.

They make dishonest promises that they can accelerate the claims process or guarantee a veteran will obtain a certain disability rating when only the VA can determine rating levels.

“It’s unacceptable when scammers target any Minnesotan,” Attorney General Keith Ellison said in a statement. “It’s particularly galling when scammers go after Minnesota’s veterans, who have risked and sacrificed so much on our behalf. It is important that Minnesota veterans know they have the right to select their own representation in pursuing benefit claims with the VA so long as the organization or individual has been authorized to practice before the VA. Anyone who prepares claims without authorization is breaking the law and taking advantage of veterans.”

How to protect veterans benefits

Keep in mind that veterans do not have to pay when they apply for VA benefits. They are entitled to free assistance from VA accredited attorneys, claims agents, and VSO representatives. In Minnesota, companies offering veteran benefit services or appeal services are required by law to disclose this fact before accepting payment from a veteran. The VA provides information online about how to find a VA-accredited representative.

To protect VA benefits, veterans should only share sensitive information with VA-accredited attorneys, claims agents, and Veterans Service Organization representatives. And they should never provide login credentials to access personal information such as those for VA.gov. Always review forms and do not work with someone who will not sign a VA representation form (21-22 or 21-22a).

What to do if you are scammed

To report a scam, file an online complaint with the Attorney’s General Office. Individuals also can contact the office by calling 651-296-3353 or 800-657-3787.