At Veteran Care Advisors (VCA), we believe every veteran deserves professional advocacy. Here is why working with a VA Accredited Claims Agent is the most effective way to secure the benefits you’ve earned.
1. Legal Authority and Specialized Expertise
An “Accredited” status isn’t just a badge; it is a federal authorization. To become an Accredited Claims Agent, an individual must pass a rigorous examination by the VA’s Office of General Counsel covering complex federal regulations and VA case law.1
The VCA Advantage:
Our co-owner, John Wardell (Accreditation #20885), has been recognized by the Department of Veterans Affairs for nearly 15 years. Unlike unaccredited “consultants” or “coaches,” an accredited agent is legally authorized to:
- Prepare, present, and prosecute your claims directly before the VA.2
- Access the Veterans Benefits Management System (VBMS) to track your claim’s progress in real-time.3
- Write formal legal arguments for Supplemental Claims and Higher-Level Reviews.4
2. Protection from “Claim Sharks” and Excessive Fees5
The rise of unaccredited “claim consultants” has led to a surge in predatory practices.6 These “sharks” often charge veterans thousands of dollars—sometimes 5x to 6x the amount of your monthly increase—without any legal oversight.
Why Accreditation Protects You:
- Ethical Oversight: Accredited agents are bound by strict federal standards of conduct (38 C.F.R. § 14.632).7
- Regulated Fees: By law, accredited agents cannot charge a veteran to file an initial claim.8 Fees for appeals are strictly regulated and monitored by the VA to ensure they are “reasonable” (typically a percentage of retroactive back-pay).9+1
- Accountability: If an unaccredited consultant makes a mistake that leads to a denial, you have no legal recourse.10 With an accredited agent, the VA’s Office of General Counsel provides a direct line for accountability.
3. Proven Success Rates in Complex Cases
According to the most recent Board of Veterans’ Appeals reports, veterans represented by professional advocates consistently see higher grant rates than those who file on their own.11
| Representation Type | Success Rate (Grant Rate) |
| Attorney or Accredited Agent | ~40.9% |
| Veterans Service Organizations (VSO) | ~36.2% |
| Self-Represented (DIY) | ~25.4% |
Source: 2023 Board of Veterans’ Appeals Annual Report. (Results vary by case).
While VSOs do great work for simple initial claims, they are often overwhelmed by massive caseloads. An Accredited Claims Agent provides personalized attention, spending the time necessary to bridge the gap between your medical records and the VA’s specific legal requirements for a rating.
4. Holistic Financial Strategy
A VA claim doesn’t exist in a vacuum. It affects your taxes, your Medicaid eligibility, and your private retirement assets. Because our team at VCA includes both VA Accredited Agents and experienced business coaches like David Whitfield, we look at the “big picture.”
We don’t just help you get a check; we help you build a comprehensive plan for long-term care that preserves your legacy.
Your Next Step: Don’t Go It Alone
You served our country with honor; you shouldn’t have to fight a second war against a desk in Washington D.C.
