Applying for VA benefits? Watch out for these scam tactics – NBC 7 San Diego

Applying for VA benefits? Watch out for these scam tactics  NBC 7 San Diego

Veterans and departing service members are being warned about scammers offering help with VA benefits in exchange for a fee. The federal government warns veterans and service members preparing to leave the military about scammers offering help with VA benefits for a fee. Sergio Flores with NBC 7 and Telemundo 20 Responds explains. Veterans and service members preparing to leave the military are being warned about scammers targeting them as they apply for Department of Veterans Affairs benefits. The Federal Trade Commission says veterans should be wary of unexpected calls, texts or emails from people contacting them about their veterans benefits. Scammers may claim to work for the VA or say they are approved by the agency.

Stream San Diego News for free, 24/7, wherever you are with NBC 7. They may offer to help veterans apply for benefits they are supposedly missing, secure a 100% disability rating or speed up the claims process — all for a fee. The VA will never charge veterans to apply for benefits. Accredited representatives and recognized veteran service organizations also will not charge veterans to apply. Veterans should never pay to apply online and should make sure they are applying directly to the VA. Scammers may guarantee that a veteran will receive benefits or claim they can help someone skip the line. Even