Job scams: never pay to work

What VA said

In “Job scams: Never pay to work” (VA News, Oct 28, 2026), VA's Benefits Delivery Protection and Remediation team warned that hiring scams are among the top schemes aimed at Veterans and families, and that they go after documents and personal information, not just money. FTC and BBB reports VA cites show military consumers lost more per person than others, with total reported losses of $584 million.

Warning signs VA lists

• Someone says they “found your resume” or offers a job with no application.
• High pay, low hours, little experience: too good to be true.
• Pressure to act fast, send your SSN or bank details, or sign a contract right away.
• Vague job descriptions, typos, no verifiable company or website.
• Asked to download unfamiliar software, or use odd chat apps.
• Any request to pay for equipment, training, onboarding or a background check — especially by gift card, crypto, payment app or wire transfer.
• A check to deposit with instructions to send part of it back. It's fake.

Your DD-214 and VA letters are targets

Scammers ask for your DD-214, your VA rating or benefit letter, your VA.gov login, and bank details because they open doors to your benefits and identity. Only upload these on usajobs.gov or to a verified employer after a real application. Never share your VA.gov or ID.me password with anyone.

How to stay safe

• Search on trusted sites like usajobs.gov and careeronestop.org.
• Call the company using a number you find yourself.
• Search the company name with “scam” or “complaint.”
• Show the offer to someone you trust. Don't let a shared military background rush you.

Report fraud at VSAFE.gov or call 833-38V-SAFE.

Same rule for claim help

The same red flags apply to VA claim “consultants”: under 38 CFR 14.636 no one may charge to prepare or file an initial claim, and you should never hand over your VA login. Free help: a VSO or VA-accredited representative. Looking for a real federal job? See how your rating helps.

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