VA claims agent accreditation exam: a plain-English, source-cited guide

Sources checked October 4, 2026. Independent guide, not affiliated with VA. Not legal advice.

To charge fees for helping veterans with VA benefit claims, a non-attorney must be accredited by VA as a claims agent. That means applying on VA Form 21a, passing a character-and-fitness review, and passing a written exam run by VA's Office of General Counsel (OGC). This site explains each step. Every factual claim links to the regulation, statute, or VA page it comes from.

Key facts at a glance

Question	Short answer	Source
Passing score	75 percent or more	38 CFR 14.629(b)(6)
Retake limit	No more than twice in any 6-month period	38 CFR 14.629(b)(6)
Exam delivery	Online, offered several times a year on set dates, to applicants approved to sit	VA OGC
Number of questions / time / open book?	Not stated on VA's public pages. Reported as 40 multiple-choice questions, 60 minutes, closed book (unverified)	Details
Application form	VA Form 21a (April 2025 revision)	VA Form 21a
Processing time	About 1 year on average for claims agent applications	OGC fact sheet
Fees	Generally only for services after notice of the initial decision; 20% cap for VA direct pay	38 U.S.C. 5904, 38 CFR 14.636
CLE	3 hours in the first 12 months, 3 more by year 3, then every 2 years	38 CFR 14.629(b)(1)

Sources checked October 4, 2026. Rules change. Always confirm on the linked primary source before relying on anything here.

Guides

The path in four steps

Apply. File VA Form 21a with OGC by mail, fax, or email (how).
Character and fitness. OGC must make an affirmative determination before an agent applicant may take the exam (14.629(b)(6); what they look at).
Exam. Score 75% or more on OGC's written exam (format, study plan).
After accreditation. Complete CLE, file annual good-standing certifications, and follow the standards of conduct (details).

Frequently asked questions

Who has to be accredited by VA to help with claims?

Generally anyone who assists claimants in the preparation, presentation, and prosecution of VA benefit claims, even without charge, must be accredited. VA accredits VSO representatives, attorneys, and claims agents. A one-time exception allows a person to help on one claim, without charge (OGC fact sheet; 38 CFR 14.630).

Do claims agents have to pass an exam?

Yes. Claims agent applicants must score 75 percent or more on a written exam given by VA. Attorneys in good standing with a state bar do not take the exam (38 CFR 14.629(b)(6); VA Form 21a instructions).

Is this site run by VA?

No. It is an independent study resource. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by VA or its Office of General Counsel, and it is not legal advice. See the About and disclaimer page.

Sources

Checked October 4, 2026. Primary sources unless marked SECONDARY.