For direct online access to VA benefits and resources, create an account here.

There are countless ways to support America’s military veterans today. However, if you’d like to do so through a Veterans Service Organization (VSO) as an official, VA-certified accredited representative, this is how you do it.

Thankfully, there are more than 40 recognized VSOs throughout the country. If you’re an accredited representative on behalf of a VSO that’s recognized, you can legally represent a veteran, service member, dependent or survivor before the VA — and help them understand and apply for benefits. If you’re part of a VSO that isn’t recognized, you can only provide information.

To become an accredited rep, all you have to do is pass an exam and a background check and keep abreast of updates (through courses) of any changes within the process you’re groomed to guide one through.

Once confirmed, you’ll be able to assist a military community member with the following VA-related topics: finance, education, jobs and careers, home loans, life insurance, pension, health care and burial benefits.

To find a VSO and ask them to join their mission, check out this list (the contact information is provided with each).

If you’re a veteran enrolled in VA benefits, and you’d like to refill your prescriptions, securely message your care team, check your G.I. Bill benefits, see the status of a claim or appeal, get your  medical records or schedule an appointment, click here.