California Attorney General Bonta Warns Veterans About 'Claim Sharks' Targeting Their Benefits
California Attorney General Rob Bonta issued a consumer alert on November 10 warning veterans about unaccredited claims agents, which he called 'claim sharks,' that charge fees while promising to expedite claims or guarantee higher disability ratings. The alert was issued ahead of Veterans Day.
Legitimate claims help is free, the alert says. County veteran service offices, partners of the California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet) and VA-accredited veterans service organizations can help veterans prepare and file benefit claims at no cost. Accredited representatives must pass an examination and background check, complete training and follow federal rules on conduct and fees; veterans can verify accreditation through the VA's public database.
California Senate Bill 694 further caps what may be charged for help preparing a claim. Bonta said veterans who gave years of their lives in service should not come home to scammers targeting their benefits, and urged them to check accreditation before paying anyone, and to use free channels such as county veteran service offices first.
Source: California Attorney General's Office
Published by GSM · USA (original Chinese edition)
Photo: 图：加州总检察长办公室所在大楼（GSM 加州固定图库）。 / Photo: The building housing the California Attorney General's Office (GSM California fixed image library).
