Get Help

As discussed in the previous section, it is always a good idea to obtain a service representative to help you present your claim to the VA. VA rules and procedures are very complicated. It can be frustrating and hazardous to go it alone.

Veterans service organizations, as well as state and county departments of veterans affairs offer their services without charge. No matter whom you select to represent you, it is important that you be personally involved in your case and make certain that everything that should be done, is done.

Although it can be a difficult task, shop around for the best advocate. Talk to the prospective representative; ask if there are any limits on his or her representation; get a feel for the person who will be working for you before you sign a power of attorney appointing the person as your representative.

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Copyright © 2004, Vietnam Veterans of America, Inc. All Rights Reserved. ISBN 0-964-3980-4-4.

Segments of this guide may be excerpted or reproduced for counseling, self-help, and scholarly purposes, but not for profit, without further permission; we request only that proper credit be given. Any other use requires written authorization of VVA, ATTN: Director, Veterans Benefits Program, 8719 Colesville Road, Suite 100, Silver Spring, MD. 20910. E-mail us at veteransbenefits@vva.org