38 CFR §14.629
Accreditation of Agents and Attorneys
Who is legally allowed to represent a veteran before the VA — and who is not.
Read the official text of 38 CFR §14.629In plain English
This is the rule that creates VA accreditation. Only an accredited attorney, an accredited claims agent, or a recognized Veterans Service Organization representative may act for a claimant before the VA.
Accredited claims agents must pass a written examination, undergo a character and fitness review, and complete continuing education. Accreditation can be revoked. Every accredited representative carries a number that anyone can verify on the VA Office of General Counsel’s public search.
Unaccredited “claim consultants” or “claim coaches” cannot legally represent you, cannot access your claims file, and cannot appear on your behalf — no matter what their advertising says.
What the rule actually requires
- Representation before the VA requires accreditation as an attorney, claims agent, or VSO representative.
- Claims agents must pass an examination and meet character and fitness standards.
- Accreditation status is public and verifiable.
- Accreditation may be suspended or cancelled for misconduct.
Why this matters to your claim
If the person helping you is not accredited, they cannot see your file or file on your behalf, and you have no recourse through the VA if they mishandle your claim. Ask for the number and check it.
This is our plain-English summary, written for veterans — it is not the regulation itself and it is not legal advice. The controlling text is the current official version, linked above. The VA makes all final decisions about eligibility and payment.
Official text of 38 CFR §14.629
