arrow_back Back to App

New Fee Rules for Veterans: Access to Legal Aid and Protection

This act changes the rules for fees charged by lawyers and agents assisting veterans in obtaining benefits. It aims to facilitate veterans' access to professional help while protecting them from excessive charges. It sets maximum amounts that can be charged and introduces penalties for unfair practices.
Key points
Veterans can now enter into fee agreements with lawyers or agents at the initial claim stage, which was previously restricted.
Fees are capped: they cannot exceed $12,500 (adjusted over time) or five times the monthly benefit increase, whichever is less.
Payment to the lawyer or agent is due only after the veteran receives the initial decision on benefits, and the fee is charged only if the claim is resolved favorably.
Financial penalties and practice bans are introduced for individuals who charge unauthorized fees or violate veteran data regulations.
The act requires lawyers and agents to inform veterans about the availability of free assistance and their right to choose their own physician for medical examinations.
article Official text account_balance Process page
Introduced
Citizen Poll
No votes cast
Additional Information
Print number: 119_HR_1656
Sponsor: Rep. Bergman, Jack [R-MI-1]
Process start date: 2025-02-27
Lustra uses Artificial Intelligence. Verify details in source documents.
Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash
Source data: api.congress.gov
AI work logs for this document launch

OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

PLUS for Veterans Act of 2025

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 119_HR_1656.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2025-02-27.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Veterans can now enter into fee agreements with lawyers or agents at the initial claim stage, which was previously restricted.
  • Fees are capped: they cannot exceed $12,500 (adjusted over time) or five times the monthly benefit increase, whichever is less.
  • Payment to the lawyer or agent is due only after the veteran receives the initial decision on benefits, and the fee is charged only if the claim is resolved favorably.
  • Financial penalties and practice bans are introduced for individuals who charge unauthorized fees or violate veteran data regulations.
  • The act requires lawyers and agents to inform veterans about the availability of free assistance and their right to choose their own physician for medical examinations.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Introduced.

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 Rep. Bergman, Jack [R-MI-1].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-22.

CATEGORIES

Benefits Courts and Law