2900-0850 Requirements for Recognition as a VA Accredited Organization (2900-AP51)

In order for an organization to provide representation to claimants before VA regarding claims for VA benefits, the organization must be recognized by VA for that purpose. Section 5902(a) of title 38, United States Code, authorizes VA to recognize organizations for the limited purpose of ensuring competent representation of veterans in claims for benefits administered by VA. VA implemented this authority in 38 C.F.R. § 14.628. An organization must apply for VA recognition, supplying information as specified in section 14.628 to demonstrate that it satisfies the legal requirements for recognition. (Organizations may provide services to veterans without VA recognition if the services do not include the preparation, presentation, and prosecution of claims for VA benefits.) The information submitted by the organizations in conjunction with a request for recognition is used by VA in reviewing accreditation applications to determine whether organizations meet the requirements for VA recognition under section 14.628. VA relies on this information to ensure that it is granting recognition only to organizations that can provide long-term, competent representation to VA claimants.

The latest form for 2900-0850 Requirements for Recognition as a VA Accredited Organization (2900-AP51) expires 2023-10-31 and can be found here.