As the largest organization of combat veterans, the VFW understands the frustrations that can come with leaving the military or filing a claim with the Department of Veterans Affairs. In the VFW’s words, the claims process “can be confusing and one that service members and veterans shouldn’t try to navigate alone.” That is why the VFW established its National Veterans Service (NVS) to help all veterans, service members, their families, and survivors.
Who the Service Officers are
NVS is a nationwide network of VFW Accredited Service Officers who are experts in navigating VA processes. They help veterans develop their cases by reviewing and applying current law, pertinent legislation, regulations, and medical histories. VA reports that veterans represented by the VFW recouped $16.2 billion in compensation and pension on behalf of veterans and eligible family members in fiscal year 2025.
What they help with
- Disability compensation claims.
- Rehabilitation and education programs.
- Pension and death benefits.
- Employment and training programs.
- Appeals: they will request hearings before VA and the Board of Veterans Appeals to present oral arguments when needed.
Free of charge, every step of the way
VFW Accredited Service Officers stay with veterans every step of the way once they are ready to file a claim. The VFW offers this service free of charge to anyone seeking help with the claims process.
Avoid the claim sharks
The VFW warns veterans not to fall victim to “claim sharks,” companies that illegally represent veterans through the VA claims process and can charge thousands of dollars for doing so. Never pay for help that the VFW gives for free.
Leaving the service? Start before you separate
The VFW Pre-Discharge program was established in 2001 through a cooperative initiative with the Pentagon and VA. It helps separating and retiring active-duty service members obtain their VA entitlements and benefits upon discharge. VFW Accredited Service Officers can help prepare and submit forms and evidence to VA before separation and answer questions about VA benefits. Pre-Discharge offices, shown on vfw.org as Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) sites, are on or near major military installations across the country. If you are within 180 days of discharge, contact a VFW Accredited Service Officer to get the process underway. The VFW’s website also has a checklist of what to bring to your appointment.
How to get connected
Start your claim online at claims.vfw.org, or find Pre-Discharge locations and contacts at vfw.org/assistance/va-claims-separation-benefits. Post 8555 members who want help getting connected with a VFW Service Officer can call the Post at (830) 484-7317.
Getting Help
- Start a claim: Online at claims.vfw.org.
- Leaving the service?: Within 180 days of discharge, contact a VFW Accredited Service Officer. Pre-Discharge locations and contacts are listed on vfw.org.
- What it costs: Nothing. The VFW’s help is free of charge.
- Post 8555: Call (830) 484-7317 for help getting connected with a VFW Service Officer.
Source: vfw.org, “VA Claims & Separation Benefits” (read September 25, 2026).