The new law prohibits unaccredited companies from charging veterans for assistance with claims, reinforcing federal standards that recognize only accredited representatives — such as county veterans service officers or veterans organizations. Veterans may also choose to pay for advanced appeal services, but only from accredited attorneys and agents, who can be found on the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of General Counsel website. 

“In the past, we have seen veterans come to us after paying hundreds or even thousands of dollars to ‘claim sharks,’ companies that aren’t accredited,” said Placer County Veterans Services Officer Steve Johnson. “We need to spread the word about all the great things we have to offer right here, for free, through our VSO.” 

All services provided by the Placer County Veterans Services Office are free of charge. Staff are trained, accredited and committed to helping veterans and their families navigate benefits without cost or risk. In 2025 alone, the office helped recover more than $18.5 million in direct compensation benefits for local veterans — dollars that make a real difference for those who served. 

Placer County is home to approximately 25,000 veterans, many of whom rely on accredited claims assistance through the VSO. 

Robert is one local veteran who initially attempted to use an unaccredited online service, with no success, before workers at Placer’s Veterans Services Office helped him move his disability rating from around 40% to over 80%.  

“It's helped me tremendously knowing that the sacrifice I made, and the sacrifices all veterans make, are getting acknowledged,” he said. “But you have to find the right people that are willing to help you get it.” 

View Robert’s video testimonial here. 

Veterans seeking assistance can visit placer.ca.gov/veterans or call 916-780-3290.