Choose the right starting point
Identify the benefit or military issue and the agency handling it. A VA benefits decision, discharge question and civilian family or housing matter need different kinds of help. Ask any proposed representative about relevant authorization.
Identify the benefit or service and whether you are preparing an application, responding to a decision or seeking review. Keep the notice and prior submission history together.
The VA office or board identified in correspondence; a nearby city does not establish who handles the review.
Is the representative VA-accredited, and which review option or records will the consultation address?
Ask who will handle the matter, what work is included, how fees and expenses are calculated, and whether the firm has agreed to protect any upcoming date. A free inquiry does not establish representation.
Use these independent resources to find contacts and published instructions. Confirm the court or agency on your own papers; a directory link does not determine jurisdiction or file a response.
Identify the benefit, written decision and current stage. State whether the issue involves an application, decision review or hearing. Keep service and medical documents for a secure discussion.
Explain whether the question concerns military records, service-related benefits or a separate civilian matter. Identify the agency or court involved so the request can be categorized accurately.
Before hiring a lawyer, ask how fees are calculated, whether a consultation is charged, what expenses may be separate, and when payment is due. Ask for the fee terms in writing. Sending an inquiry through this website is free; that does not establish the cost of a lawyer’s services.
Ask who will review your information, whether the firm handles this type of matter in the relevant jurisdiction, and what the next step would involve. Explain any date shown on a notice. A website inquiry does not hire a lawyer or file a court or agency response.
These examples describe inquiries, not findings that a claim is valid or that representation is available.
Does the request involve a VA decision, military records or a civilian legal matter?
Provide a brief factual summary. Keep financial account numbers, identity documents, medical records and other sensitive files for a secure exchange with a professional who agrees to review the matter.
VA accredited representative information
This resource can help you locate official information or an appropriate starting point. It operates separately from this advertising website.
