How We're Paid
Last updated: June 2026
Federal law strictly regulates what VA-Accredited representatives can charge. Here is exactly how it works at Oakridge Claims — no surprises.
Initial claims
No fee — ever
We are appeals-focused but accept initial claims case-by-case. (38 U.S.C. § 5904 bars any representative from charging a fee at that stage anyway.) A free, accredited VSO is the right starting point for a first claim.
Appeals (HLR / Supplemental / Board)
20% contingency
Of past-due benefits only. No award, no fee. Your monthly checks are yours.
See the numbers for yourself
Percentages are abstract until you put your own dates and ratings into them. Our estimator takes your effective date (or Intent to File date), the expected decision date, and the ratings before and after, then shows the illustrative back pay, what a 20% fee on those past-due benefits would be, and how much of the award stays with you — including the monthly increase, which is never subject to a fee.
What you will never see on an invoice from us
- ×An hourly bill
- ×A retainer or upfront deposit
- ×A charge for phone calls, emails, or status updates
- ×A percentage of your future monthly disability checks
- ×A markup on third-party costs you already paid for
Watch out for fee scams
If anyone — accredited or not — asks you to pay upfront for help with an initial VA claim, that violates federal law. Walk away and report the practice to the VA Office of General Counsel.
FAQ
Do I pay anything for my initial claim?
No. Federal law (38 U.S.C. § 5904) prohibits any accredited representative from charging a fee for help preparing or filing an initial claim for VA benefits. Oakridge Claims is appeals-focused, but we accept initial claims on a case-by-case basis. Federal rules bar any fee for work before VA's first decision on a claim, so accepted initial-claim work is provided at no charge. Free help from an accredited VSO is also an option.
When can a VA-Accredited Claims Agent charge a fee?
Only after VA has issued an initial decision and the veteran files a qualifying review or appeal (Higher-Level Review, Supplemental Claim, or Board appeal). The fee must be in a written agreement filed with VA.
What is your fee?
20% contingency on past-due (retroactive) benefits VA actually awards as a result of the appeal we handle. No award, no fee. We never take a percentage of your ongoing monthly benefits.
What does 'past-due benefits' mean?
The lump-sum back pay VA owes for the period between your effective date and the date your award is processed. Future monthly checks are 100% yours.
Are there hidden costs?
No. We do not bill hourly. We do not charge for phone calls, status updates, or document review. If VA does not award past-due benefits, you owe nothing.
Is 20% the legal maximum?
VA presumes a fee of up to 20% of past-due benefits is reasonable; up to 33⅓% is allowed if justified. We chose to cap at 20% so the veteran keeps the larger share.
Have a VA decision you disagree with?
Submit your decision letter for an initial no-cost review. If your matter fits our scope, we'll invite you to schedule a consultation.