SAFEGUARD Veterans Act of 2026

Criminal Penalties for Fraud: People who charge unauthorized fees for preparing or prosecuting benefit claims can face fines, up to one year in prison, or both, which helps protect veterans from financial exploitation (Sec. 2).

Representative Verification: Veterans can use a new online tool to search for accredited persons and see who has been suspended or excluded, ensuring they use legitimate help (Sec. 3).

Increased Transparency: The bill requires the VA to provide notices and warnings on website portals about the fees agents may charge and provides a way for claimants to report unaccredited representatives (Sec. 3).

Security Warnings: Veterans will receive messages discouraging them from sharing their bank or Department account login credentials with others, protecting their personal and financial information (Sec. 4).

Easier Reporting: New questions on claim forms allow the VA to identify and gather information on people charging for "coaching" or assistance (Sec. 5).

Reduced Automated Harassment: The bill restricts the use of automated telephone equipment to make repeated calls to federal agencies unless operated by the person the information relates to (Sec. 7).

Restrictions on Assistance: Individuals who are not recognized by the Secretary or under direct supervision of a recognized agent/attorney are prohibited from assisting claimants with the preparation, presentation, or prosecution of claims (Sec. 2).

Loss of Professional Status: Individuals who violate fee rules will be barred from being recognized as an agent or attorney for one year for the first violation and 10 years for subsequent violations (Sec. 2).

Supremacy Over State Law: The provisions regarding the recognition of agents and attorneys will supersede any existing state laws, including those regarding fee agreements or authority to charge for services (Sec. 2).