The N.C. Division of Veterans Affairs (NCDVA) joins the N.C. Office of the Attorney General, http://www.ncdoj.gov/News-and-Alerts, in warning veterans about scams observed here and across the nation regarding companies that require payment for processing of pension and other benefits forms.

“We have become aware of so-called, ‘pension poachers’ who are targeting veterans through seminars and other seemingly innocent outreach,” said Assistant Secretary for Veterans Affairs, Tim Wipperman. “This is an abhorrent practice and often includes questionable insurance or investment products. We are working with partner agencies to get the word out. There is no reason for a qualified veteran to pay a company to receive benefits they have earned through their service.”

District Service Officers are available in all 100 counties to assist veterans with necessary paperwork. To find a local office, visit http:www.doa.nc.gov/vets/locations.

Additionally, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has a website for individuals seeking accredited services available to veterans. For information, visit http:www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/index.asp.