Firms that help military vets with their disability claims can charge exorbitant fees

By Quil Lawrence,

Caley Fox Shannon, Chris Arnold

Published December 2, 2025 at 5:50 PM EST

NPR has been following the money behind veterans' disability claims — specifically, for-profit companies that help vets navigate the VA's red tape. Critics of the companies call them "claim sharks."

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Quil Lawrence

Quil Lawrence is a New York-based correspondent for NPR News, covering national security, climate and veterans' issues nationwide. Previously he was NPR's Bureau Chief in Kabul and Baghdad.

Caley Fox Shannon

Chris Arnold

Chris Arnold is a correspondent with NPR's investigations team. His stories often focus on people who are being mistreated and need help.

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Firms that help military vets with their disability claims can charge exorbitant fees

Support quality journalism, like the story above, with your gift right now.

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with your gift right now.