Last month, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed legislation aimed at prohibiting unaccredited representatives from charging fees for providing VA claim assistance to veterans.
The law, SB 694, authored by State Sen. Bob Archuleta, establishes a framework in state law that allows unaccredited agents — known as claim sharks — to face civil penalties beginning Jan. 1, 2027.
“It was a hard-fought battle to get this bill over the finish line, and I’m extremely pleased to see the governor is prioritizing veterans over politics,” said San Bernardino County Veterans Affairs Director Matt Knox. “However, it’s important that veterans’ advocates stay vigilant because claim sharks have considerable financial resources backing them, and they may attempt to repeal this new law.”
SB 694 enhances protections against deceptive practices and improper or unreasonable fees related to veterans’ benefits claim assistance. This new law strengthens oversight, reinforces consumer protections and aligns California with long-standing federal safeguards designed to protect veterans during the VA claims process.
For years, claim sharks have targeted and exploited veterans by charging excessive fees for VA disability claim assistance. In many cases, veterans were required to pay thousands of dollars or sign fee agreements that required payment based on future benefit awards.
For San Bernardino County veterans, this legislation reinforces the importance of County Veterans Affairs. The department’s highly trained and accredited staff provide professional assistance with disability compensation claims, pension benefits and other VA-related services at no cost to the veteran or their family members.
Veterans seeking more information about VA disability claims or other available benefits can visit va.sbcounty.gov or call 1(866)472-8387.
