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return to topProtect Yourself from FraudVA is committed to raising public awareness about predatory entities, and we are educating Veterans, their families, and partners about the dishonest behavior, activities and strategies utilized by these entities. As one of many steps towards increasing awareness about predatory companies, VA would like to highlight the following fraud prevention guidance.Best Practices%u2022Apply directly to VA or with an accredited representative. Veterans may submit their application(s) for VA benefits securelyonlineviaVA.GOVor in person at any regional office.%u2022If a Veteran is missing a VA benefits payment, identifies a discrepancy in payments, or finds suspicious activity with your direct deposit account, contact the VA immediately at 1-800-827-1000.%u2022If you are interested in working with an accredited Veteran Service Organization, agent, or attorney, you can validate their credentials utilizing VA%u2019s OGCAccreditation Search Tool.%u2022If an entity is projecting misinformation or has questionable business practices regarding VA entitlements, Veterans/Veteran Advocates may file a complaint with theFederal Trade Commission.Do's and Don%u2019ts%u2022Do be cautious of companies advertising Veterans can only obtain VA benefits with their help. These companies may not be recognized by VA and may be trying to charge illegal fees.%u2022Do be cautious of aggressive companies who may try to pressure you to sign their contract. Typically, they see frequent communications or insist %u201cyou must act now or lose your chance for benefits.%u201d%u2022Do review all documents thoroughly. Veterans should never sing a blank form for someone else to complete later. They should always review the completed form before signing and retain a comp of the completed form for their records.