Veterans often hire private disability experts instead of using free Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) for several key reasons. While its always optimal to use a service that comes with no costs, the results can directly relate at no fault of the VSO. Whenever a service is offered at no costs, you can imagine the people waiting in lines. All to say, it may be recommended to know all your options. Ask your VSO his/or her’s closing ratios for higher ratings, their load factors and how quickly they’ll be able to work your case. For now, here are a few reasons many veterans hire a VA Disabilty Rating expert:
- Expertise in complex cases – Private firms often specialize in challenging claims involving multiple conditions, mental health issues, or rare diseases that may require more specialized knowledge.
- Dedicated attention – While VSOs manage large caseloads, private experts typically handle fewer cases, potentially offering more personalized attention and time for each veteran’s claim.
- Persistence through appeals – Many veterans turn to private experts after initial denials, as these specialists often have extensive experience navigating the appeals process, including higher-level reviews and Board of Veterans’ Appeals hearings.
- Medical evidence development – Private firms frequently work with medical experts to develop stronger nexus opinions and medical evidence packages tailored to VA requirements.
- Previous negative experiences – Some veterans hire experts after unsuccessful experiences with VSOs, believing their claims weren’t given adequate attention or expertise.
- Accountability – The fee structure (typically contingency-based) creates a financial incentive for private experts to succeed with claims.
- Speed concerns – Some veterans perceive that private experts may move claims forward more quickly than VSOs with high caseloads.
It’s worth noting that many VSOs provide excellent service, and the choice between a private expert or VSO depends on individual circumstances, claim complexity, and personal preferences. Private experts typically charge a percentage of retroactive benefits awarded (usually capped at 20-33%), while VSO services are free.
If you would like to speak to a VA Disability Expert, click here. Your evaluation call can be very educational and cost you nothing.