Becoming an Accredited Claims Agent/Attorney
Overview
This comprehensive guide explains the process for veterans and civilians seeking accreditation as VA claims agents or attorneys through the VA's Office of the General Counsel (OGC).
Pro Tip: Thinking about becoming an accredited claims agent? The VA needs good ones. If you've been through the claims process and want to help others navigate it, this is how you go legit.
What Makes an Effective Claims Agent?
An effective claims agent must manage an extremely diverse range of veteran issues, as each VA claim presents unique challenges. Examples include:
- Determining whether AWOL resulting from mental health episodes bars VA benefits
- Responding to continued claim denials despite strong medical and lay evidence
- Assessing whether "sleep disorder" claims encompass sleep apnea diagnoses
- Addressing numerous other specialized issues
Essential qualities include: - Ability to argue varied topics beyond personal experience - Client expectation management - Meeting deadlines consistently - Maximizing veteran benefits - Strong computer skills for navigating VA digital systems like VBMS
The page emphasizes that "computer literacy is critical to represent claimants in today's VA" as the agency increasingly operates digitally.
The Accreditation Process
Step One: Application
Complete VA Form 21a (Application for Accreditation as a Claims Agent or Attorney) and submit via: - Mail to: Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of the General Counsel (022D), 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, D.C. 20420 - Fax: 202-495-5457 - Email: ogcaccreditationmailbox@va.gov
Step Two: Character Assessment
Within six months, the OGC should email character references. A temporary change due to current backlogs means character checks now occur after the test rather than before.
Step Three: Examination
Successful applicants receive invitations to take an online proctored test covering topics such as appeal timelines and benefit termination scenarios. Testing occurs only four times annually. Online study guides are available for purchase from reputable providers.
Step Four: Accreditation Approval
Within approximately two weeks, applicants receive notification of results. Successful candidates become accredited claims agents/attorneys.
Post-Accreditation Requirements
- Invest in the Veteran's Benefits Manual (published by LexisNexis)
- Understand regulations at 38 CFR § 14.629
- Obtain three Continuing Legal Education hours within the first year; additional hours required thereafter
- Annually certify good standing status to the OGC
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need prior legal or VSO experience? While not required, previous experience strengthens understanding and resumes. Volunteering or employment as a Veteran Service Officer beforehand is recommended.
How do I update my address after accreditation? Contact both the VBA and OGC following the "Process for Attorney and Claims Agent Contact Change Requests" fact sheet.
Key Regulatory References
- 38 CFR § 14.627 — Definitions
- 38 CFR § 14.629 — Requirements for accreditation
- 38 CFR § 14.630 — Authorization for particular claims
- 38 CFR § 14.631 — Powers of attorney
- 38 CFR § 14.632 — Standards of conduct
- 38 CFR § 14.633 — Termination of accreditation
- 38 CFR § 14.636-637 — Fee and expense payment provisions
Related Resources
- Becoming a VA Employee
- Becoming a Veteran Service Officer (VSO)
- M21-1 Adjudication Procedures Manual
- 38 CFR - Code of Federal Regulations
- VA Form 21a - Accreditation Application
Credits: Written by u/Wesley832; adapted by u/l8tn8