What is the primary responsibility of a Veteran Service Organization (VSO)?

The primary responsibility of a Veteran Service Organization (VSO) is indeed to serve as an advocate for veterans, particularly in the context of helping them navigate the complex process of applying for and securing benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs. This includes providing assistance with claims for disability compensation, pensions, education benefits, and other related services.

VSOs are recognized by the VA and are granted accreditation to represent veterans in their claims. This accreditation allows organizations to help veterans gather necessary documentation, complete required forms, and present cases effectively to the VA. By focusing on the claims process, VSOs ensure that veterans understand their rights and benefits, maximizing their chances of receiving the support they need and have earned through their service.

While supporting veterans in medical care, education claims processing, and burial arrangements are important services provided by various organizations, they are not the core function of a VSO. The VSO's distinct role centers around the accreditation and claims advocacy process, which is vital to helping veterans access their entitled benefits successfully.