Clear Fees. No Surprises.
Transparency is fundamental to how Oakridge Claims operates. Below is a clear explanation of how representation fees and expenses work — in plain language.
VA-Accredited Representation
Accredited claims agent representation
Representation before the Department of Veterans Affairs is provided exclusively by Esteban Magallon, a VA-accredited claims agent. Oakridge Claims operates as a private business and trade name for administrative purposes only.
Standard Fee
20% of past-due (retroactive) benefits awarded
Representation fees are limited to 20% of any past-due benefits awarded, as permitted by VA regulations.
If no past-due benefits are awarded, no fee is charged.
When Fees Apply
Post-decision representation only
No fee is charged for representation on an initial claim prior to a VA decision.
Fees apply only to post-decision representation where permitted by VA regulations, such as appeals or supplemental claims.
When applicable, the VA may withhold and pay authorized fees directly from past-due benefits.
If VA Does Not Withhold Fees
Claimant remains responsible
If the VA does not withhold authorized fees, the claimant remains responsible for payment of earned fees in accordance with the signed fee agreement.
Scope of Representation and Expenses
Medical evidence and expenses are the claimant's responsibility
Medical evidence and expenses are the claimant's responsibility. Medical opinions, examinations, and nexus letters are not included in representation fees. Oakridge Claims does not provide medical care, examinations, or medical opinions.
We may provide general guidance on when medical evidence may be helpful and what the VA typically looks for in a well-supported medical opinion. However, clients are solely responsible for selecting and engaging any medical provider, and for all associated costs.
Oakridge Claims does not refer, direct, or arrange specific medical providers. Any medical evidence must be obtained independently by the claimant.
We may review submitted medical evidence as part of claim development, but do not guarantee acceptance or outcome.
Written Fee Agreement Required
Reviewed & e-signed during intake
All representation is governed by a written, VA-compliant fee agreement signed by both the claimant and the accredited agent. The full agreement is presented for your review and electronic signature inside the secure intake questionnaire — nothing is signed before then. No paid representation begins without a fully executed agreement.
Worked Example
How a fee is actually calculated on a successful appeal — with real numbers.
Past-Due Award
$25,000
Retroactive lump sum
Agent Fee (20%)
$5,000
One-time, from past-due only
Veteran Receives
$20,000
+ Full future monthly comp
Run this with your own dates and ratings in the Back Pay & Fee Estimator
The $5,000 fee is paid once, out of the retroactive lump sum (often withheld and paid directly by VA). All future monthly VA compensation belongs to the veteran in full — we never take a percentage of ongoing benefits. If no past-due award is granted, no fee is charged.
No Guarantees
Outcomes are determined by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Oakridge Claims does not guarantee any specific result.
Disclaimer: Oakridge Claims is a private business and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. No guarantees of outcomes are made.