A VSO representative (also known as a Veterans Service Officer) helps you with the preparation, presentation, and prosecution of claims. Once your claim is filed, they track the claim through the VA system, act as liaisons between you and the VA, and are your official representative by acting as your power of attorney (POA). According to the VA, giving a veteran service officer the power of attorney allows an appointed VSO representative to “initiate your claim to preserve an effective start date, gather required records and evidence on your behalf, and review your application prior to submission … a VSO serving as your POA is also given 48 hours to review your VA decision to ensure it is correct before it is sent to you.”