VA Claims Agent Exam PrepVA Accredited Representative Census Tracker
How many people are accredited to represent veterans before VA? This page tracks what VA publicly reports about its accredited claims agents, attorneys, and VSO representatives, plus the fee payments VA now discloses.
Not affiliated with VA. This is an independent study resource, not an official VA publication. For the authoritative list, use the VA OGC Accreditation Search.
The headline numbers
VA accredits three categories of representatives through its Office of General Counsel: independent claims agents (non-attorneys who pass the OGC exam), attorneys (licensed lawyers), and VSO representatives (people working through recognized veterans service organizations). Here is what the public record shows.
What each category means
Relative sizes are illustrative based on OGC accreditation patterns. VA does not publish exact per-category counts as a single running total. The searchable database is the authoritative source for individual verification.
Timeline: accreditation oversight milestones
GAO report GAO-13-643 finds OGC monitoring about 20,000 accredited representatives with only four staff dedicated to oversight, and calls for stronger character and training checks.
VA begins publicly disclosing monthly fee payment data showing direct payments from veterans back pay to accredited attorneys and agents.
NAVR highlights VA data showing nearly $395 million paid to representatives over 12 months. Congressional attention grows with bills like the CHOICE for Veterans Act (H.R. 3132).
This tracker updates as VA publishes new accreditation and fee data. Check the OGC accreditation search for the current live roster.
Why this matters if you are studying for the exam
The claims agent path exists because Congress created it in 38 U.S.C. 5904: non-attorneys who demonstrate good character and pass the OGC exam can represent veterans for a fee. Understanding the scale of the accredited population helps you understand the profession you are entering. Key points for exam day:
- Accreditation authority: VA OGC accredits all three categories under 38 CFR part 14.
- Fee cap: 20 percent of past-due benefits is the most VA will pay a representative directly. Fees must be in a written agreement.
- VSO reps are always free: By law and VA policy, VSO representatives never charge.
- Oversight: OGC can suspend or cancel accreditation for misconduct under 38 CFR 14.633.
How we track this
We pull from primary sources only: VA OGC publications, the Federal Register, GAO reports, Congressional Research Service products, and VA's published fee data. When VA does not publish a figure (such as an exact current count of claims agents alone), we say so rather than inventing one. This page is updated when new primary-source data appears.
Frequently asked questions
How many VA accredited claims agents are there?
VA does not publish a single running count of accredited claims agents separate from attorneys and VSO representatives. The OGC accreditation database at va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/index.asp is the authoritative searchable list. A 2013 GAO report noted OGC was monitoring about 20,000 accredited representatives across all categories at that time.
What is the difference between a VA accredited claims agent and an attorney?
Both are accredited through VA OGC and may charge fees for representation, capped at 20 percent of past-due benefits under 38 U.S.C. 5904. Claims agents are non-attorneys who pass the OGC accreditation exam. Attorneys are licensed lawyers admitted to a state bar who apply for VA accreditation separately.
How much do VA accredited representatives get paid from veterans back pay?
VA began publishing monthly fee payment data. Reports from 2026 indicate roughly $395 million to $422 million in veterans disability back pay was paid directly to accredited attorneys and claims agents over a 12-month period, averaging about $32 million per month.
Where can I verify someone is VA accredited?
Use the VA OGC Accreditation Search at va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/index.asp. It lists all accredited attorneys, claims agents, and VSO representatives and is the only official verification source.
Is this an official VA website?
No. It is an independent study resource and is not affiliated with VA or its Office of General Counsel.
Is this legal advice?
No. It is general education about the accreditation process, not advice about any person's claim or situation.
Sources
Checked October 7, 2026. Primary sources unless marked.
- VA Office of General Counsel, Accreditation, Discipline, and Fees Program
- VA OGC Accreditation Search (official roster)
- 38 CFR part 14, Administrative and Legal Provisions (eCFR)
- 38 U.S.C. 5904, Recognition of agents and attorneys generally (Cornell LII)
- GAO-13-643, VA Disability Compensation: Actions Needed to Better Manage and Monitor Accredited Representatives (2013)
- Congressional Research Service R46428, Veterans Accredited Representatives: Frequently Asked Questions