From the Expert: 

• Accredited VSOs have been trained to protect your personal and medical information. 
  
  

• VSOs maintain a case management system to assist with compiling all the different claim forms required for a complete claim. 
  
  

• VSOs provide claim and appeal services, free of charge with no obligation to join their group. 
  
  

• Most VSOs have access to the Veterans Benefit Management System (VBMS), which contains your electronic claim file. They can provide you with a better idea of the status of your claim as it goes through the system.  
  
  

• VSOs can provide counsel on a potential appeal based on the evidence of your claim.