March 23, 2026
Claim Predators or Claim Sharks | Part 2
As outlined in Part 1 of this series, claim predators use high-pressure tactics, misleading promises, and unlawful fee structures to insert themselves into the VA claims process.
That is why the Arizona Coalition for Military Families (ACMF) works with the Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services (ADVS) and others to ensure Arizona veterans have clear, reliable pathways to no-cost, VA-accredited assistance.
Across Arizona, this issue has drawn attention from state legislators, the bipartisan Veteran Caucus, Veteran Service Organizations, and leaders within the VA. Lawmakers have introduced measures to strengthen consumer protections and require greater transparency for anyone offering claims assistance. While legislative efforts move forward, Arizona veterans already have access to accredited, no-cost support today.
A Coordinated Model of Support
ADVS provides VA-accredited claims assistance through experienced Veteran Benefits Counselors, with a 95% claim approval rate. Their role is focused and specialized: helping Arizona veterans prepare, submit, and navigate VA benefits claims in compliance with federal standards.
ACMF, through the Be Connected program and its over 600 partner organizations, provides coordinated resource navigation to strengthen housing stability, employment progress, transportation access, and family support which can assist the claims process. Working together, ACMF and ADVS provide a comprehensive model:
Choosing Accredited Support
Veterans have options when pursuing VA benefits. Whether a veteran chooses a paid, private benefits service or the State of Arizona’s no-cost support, the most important consideration is that veterans work with a service provider that is accredited by the VA.
The Be Connected support line, 866-4AZ-VETS, is a trusted starting point. Arizona veterans and their families can be connected to accredited professionals and coordinated support designed to ensure clarity, integrity, and confidence throughout the process, keeping the best interests of the veteran front and center.
Arizona’s Trusted Network
ACMF is committed to protecting veterans through our Guidelines for Care, which ensure that every organization in our network operates ethically. We do not partner with any group that seeks to exploit veterans’ circumstances. If you or a veteran you know needs assistance with a VA claim, trustworthy support is available. Call the Be Connected support line at 866-4AZ-VETS, where our team can connect you to VA-accredited organizations that will provide support for VA and benefit claims.
Share Your Thoughts
If you want to share your thoughts on this topic with the Arizona State Legislature’s Veteran Caucus.
Resource
- Visit va.gov/vsafe for tips on identifying fraud and finding accredited assistance.
