Applying to Become An Accredited FRA Veterans’
Service Officer
Delegates of the 82nd FRA
National Convention in Virginia
Beach, VA
approved a new comprehensive Veteran Service Officer (VSO)
Policy.
The FRA VSO program supports members via
volunteer representatives accredited through the VA General
Counsel’s Office. To become accredited an individual must
demonstrate knowledge of VA benefits programs including laws, rules and
associated policies. This proficiency is garnered either through
the successful completion of VA approved courses or through years of
experience in the processing of veterans’ claims. While
prior military service in not required for accreditation, a general
knowledge beyond Department of Defense structure and military service is
necessary to be an effective VSO.
In addition, the Association will,
subject to review, cover the costs of training and certain other
expenses associated with their participation in this
program.
Voluntary applicants for the program
will be screened by the National Veterans Service Officer (NVSO) prior
to beginning VSO training in conjunction with becoming certified to
assist individuals at the local level.
Accredited representatives for the FRA
can assist any service member, veteran, spouse or dependent who has
executed/filed a proper VA Form 21-22 (Appointment of Veterans’
Service Organization as Claimant’s Representative) in all claims
matters before the Department of Veterans’
Affairs.
In order to become an accredited representative for the FRA an
individual must do the following:
- Complete and submit the “FRA Application for Accreditation” and
mail the signed form to:FRA National Headquarters (NHQ), Attention
NVSO, 125 North West
Street, Alexandria,
VA 22314.
- Successfully complete VA approved Basic
Veteran Benefits course (Contact NHQ for guidance on
where to find appropriate courses).Applicants must provide documentation
of successful completion of this coursework and forward receipts for
costs incurred for this coursework to FRA NHQ, at the above
address.
- Complete VA Form 21 (Application for Accreditation as a
Service Organization Representative).Mail the completed and signed form
VA21 to the FRA NHQ, Attention NVSO, at the above address.
- Upon successful completion of
coursework, approval of FRA certifying official (NED) and VA General
Counsel, volunteer accredited representative will receive a
“representative card” signed by VA General Counsel and
certifying official along with a welcoming letter.
Please direct questions on this process
to the FRA VSO, at fravso@fra.org or 1-800-FRA-1924 extension
125.
Mail all forms and correspondence
to:
FRA
Attn: VSO Program
125 N. West
Street
Alexandria, VA 22314