Independent referral service · Not affiliated with the VA or DoD
How VA disability attorney fees work
Fees are regulated. Accredited attorneys may not charge before the initial decision. After that, fees are normally a percentage of past-due benefits.
Calls are answered by an automated intake assistant and may be recorded with your consent.
Can an attorney charge before the VA makes a decision?
No. Accredited attorneys and agents may not charge for work performed before the VA's initial decision on a claim (38 U.S.C. § 5904(c)(1)). Veterans Service Organizations are always free.
How are fees calculated after a decision?
Fees are usually contingent on past-due benefits. A fee of 20% or less is presumed reasonable. A fee over 33⅓% is presumed unreasonable (38 C.F.R. § 14.636). When the fee is 20% or less, the VA can pay the attorney directly from the veteran's back pay. No back pay usually means no fee.
Any fee is set in a written agreement between you and the law firm, not by VA Disability Help.
What does a 20% fee look like on paper?
Illustration only; your situation will differ.
Using the 2026 monthly rate for a veteran alone at 70% ($1,808.45) and assuming 12 months of back pay:
- Back pay: $1,808.45 × 12 = $21,701.40
- 20% fee: $4,340.28
Rates are effective December 1, 2025, and will next adjust on December 1, 2026 (VA.gov rates table). Actual back pay depends on the effective date, rating, and dependents. The firm and you agree on the exact fee in writing.
Are there free alternatives?
Yes. Accredited Veterans Service Organizations provide free representation. You can find one at VA.gov or on the free help page.
Frequently asked questions
Do I pay anything up front?
What if there is no back pay?
Who sets the fee percentage?
Can the VA pay the attorney directly?
See if a law firm can review your VA decision
Takes about 2 minutes. There is no charge to request a review.