Veterans Benefits Matters – Claim Servicers – Prohibitions and Requirements

SB 928 prohibits non-V.A. accredited individuals or entities from charging fees for preparing, presenting, or advising on veterans benefits claims or appeals. It requires all service providers charging fees to provide written disclosures stating that free VA-accredited services are available, and mandates that advertisements for appeals services must include this disclosure. The bill also bans non-accredited providers from making guarantees about claim outcomes or receiving compensation for referrals. Violations carry civil penalties of up to $1,000 per violation, enforced under Maryland’s Consumer Protection Act. This directly affects veterans seeking benefits and non-accredited claim servicers who previously offered paid services.