MD HB267

Persons not accredited by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs are prohibited from receiving compensation for preparing, presenting, or prosecuting veterans benefits claims, or for advising/assisting individuals with veterans benefits matters

Non-V.A. accredited persons are also prohibited from receiving compensation for referring individuals to others for veterans benefits assistance

Prohibits anyone from guaranteeing, directly or by implication, that an individual will receive specific veterans benefits or a specific level/percentage/amount of benefits

Requires written fee agreements signed by both parties before services are rendered, with fees limited to reasonable amounts as determined under federal regulation 38 C.F.R. § 14.636

Violations constitute unfair, abusive, or deceptive trade practices under the Maryland Consumer Protection Act, with penalties deposited into the Maryland Veterans Trust Fund; effective October 1, 2025