In recognition of Veterans Day, California's Attorney General Rob Bonta has released a consumer alert specifically for veterans and their families to be on the lookout for scams and fraudulent schemes. Warning against the dangers posed by unaccredited individuals, Bonta highlighted the risk to those veterans who seek help in accessing their benefits, according to a press release by the California Attorney General's Office. The Attorney General pointed out predators who promise faster claims processes or guaranteed increases in benefits, yet lack accreditation and regulation by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
Providing tips for receiving reliable assistance, the Attorney General’s Office emphasized the importance of seeking help from local county veteran service offices or VA-accredited representatives for free support. These accredited individuals, including attorneys and claims agents, are legally obligated to maintain standards—they face penalties if they fail to do so. Meanwhile, the unaccredited may offer subpar service, exorbitant fees, or even commit outright fraud. It's advised that veterans be wary of anyone demanding upfront fees or proposing to bypass standard mortgage payment channels.
Among the more prevalent scams are home loan scams, where bogus lenders or servicers contact homeowners unsolicited, suggesting changes to existing loans or refinancing. Veterans should refuse to provide personal information to any sudden inquiries and should verify the legitimacy of any lender or servicer by contacting their own mortgage servicer directly at the numbers listed on official statements. In cases of identity theft, individuals are encouraged to put a fraud alert on their credit reports and file reports with the FTC and local law enforcement.
The warning also covers pension scams, with unethical advisors pushing costly annuities or services to assist in veterans' pension applications, actions that may jeopardize eligibility for pensions or health benefits. Veterans are urged to seek help from official sources, such as their County Veterans Service Office.
