A newly announced bill, known as the Veterans Scam and Fraud Evasion (VSAFE) Act, has been proposed to help protect veterans from fraud. Sadly, veterans are often the victims of scams intended to deprive them of their hard earned benefits. With this new legislation, there would be greater protection against fraud targeted at veterans, in particular disabled veterans.
What is the VSAFE Act?
The VSAFE Act is a proposed law intended to address the issue of fraud targeted at veterans, particularly disabled veterans. Among other things, it would establish new guidance for handling people who attempt to defraud veterans, and help to prevent similar scams from occurring in the first place. It would also establish a new position, described as a veteran scam and fraud evasion officer, intended to help to track down people who try to avoid punishment when committing these fraudulent acts.
Why is the VSAFE Act Being Passed?
The VSAFE Act is being passed to address the shockingly widespread problem of veteran benefits fraud. Veterans suffered an estimated $350 million in fraud in 2023, which is up around 20% compared to the previous year. Veterans are also about twice as likely to be the victims of fraud compared to the average population, and lost on average $577 to fraudulent activity.
What Sorts of Fraud is it Meant to Protect Against?
Sadly, the types of fraudulent behavior that the VSAFE Act is meant to guard against are numerous. These include identity theft, investment fraud, abusive or fraudulent loans, and more. This also includes companies that advertise themselves as assisting disabled veterans to get benefits, often making unrealistic promises like guaranteeing a 100% disability rating in order to secure money from disabled veterans.
What Should You Do if You Are the Victim of Fraud?
If you or someone you love is a veteran who has been the victim of fraud, you should report it to the VA’s Office of the Inspector General. Meanwhile, if you are a disabled veteran seeking benefits through the VA, you should make sure to speak to an attorney with experience handling disability claims. They can not only help you through the application process, they can help appeal your claim if it is denied.
The attorneys of Sullivan & Kehoe place a special focus on assisting disabled veterans. Our veterans’ disability lawyers are still available for remote consultation on your legal issues. Call our office at (800) 395-7830 to schedule a consultation in our New York City, Garden City, Kings Park, Riverhead, or White Plains office, or visit our contact page.
