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Fee Caps and Faster Legal Assistance for Veterans' Benefits Claims.

This law introduces new maximum fee limits that attorneys and agents can charge veterans for assistance with VA benefits claims, protecting them from excessive costs. It also speeds up the recognition process for representatives, ensuring quicker access to assistance. Furthermore, it reinstates severe penalties for charging unauthorized fees, strengthening protection against fraud.
Key points
Fee limits introduced for representatives: The maximum fee for assistance with VA benefits is capped at $12,500 (adjusted annually for inflation) or limited to five times the monthly increase in awarded benefits.
Faster recognition of agents and attorneys: The VA must decide on recognizing a representative within 90 days, ensuring veterans get quicker access to representation.
Increased protection against fraud: Criminal penalties (fines and imprisonment) are reinstated for charging veterans unauthorized fees for claim assistance.
Clarity on medical exams: Providing a medical examination or report does not count as preparing a claim, allowing veterans flexibility in obtaining medical evidence.
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Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_1789
Sponsor: Sen. Kennedy, John [R-LA]
Process start date: 2023-06-01