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Improved assistance for veterans filing claims: new representation tools.

This Act aims to improve veterans' access to accredited representatives who can assist with preparing and filing benefit claims. Veterans filing initial claims without representation will receive mandatory notice about available accredited persons, including free services from Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs). The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) must also maintain an easily accessible online tool listing these accredited representatives and provide warnings about potential fees charged by agents or attorneys.
Key points
Mandatory notification to veterans about the availability of free representation by recognized VSOs or paid representation by accredited attorneys/agents.
Creation of an easily accessible online tool, updated quarterly, listing all accredited persons available to represent claimants.
Inclusion of warnings on VA claim portals regarding potential fees charged by agents or attorneys, and a mechanism to report unaccredited persons charging fees.
Requirement for the VA to review and recommend improvements to the processes for recognizing and accrediting representatives.
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Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_5325
Sponsor: Sen. Blumenthal, Richard [D-CT]
Process start date: 2024-11-14
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Summarized by: gemini-flash-latest
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Veterans Claims Education Act of 2024

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_S_5325.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2024-11-14.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Mandatory notification to veterans about the availability of free representation by recognized VSOs or paid representation by accredited attorneys/agents.
  • Creation of an easily accessible online tool, updated quarterly, listing all accredited persons available to represent claimants.
  • Inclusion of warnings on VA claim portals regarding potential fees charged by agents or attorneys, and a mechanism to report unaccredited persons charging fees.
  • Requirement for the VA to review and recommend improvements to the processes for recognizing and accrediting representatives.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Blumenthal, Richard [D-CT].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in Senate

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-26.

CATEGORIES

Benefits