What This Update Is About

The VA has changed how it handles Veterans in the Fiduciary Program. This update explains what is changing and why it matters for Veterans and their families.

What the VA Fiduciary Program Is

The VA Fiduciary Program helps Veterans who need support managing their VA benefits. A fiduciary is a trusted person chosen to help with money and financial decisions.

Being in the Fiduciary Program does not mean a Veteran has done anything wrong. It simply means they need help handling their finances.

What Is Changing

The VA has made several important changes:

• Veterans will no longer be reported to the FBI’s background check system just because they have a fiduciary.

• Veterans will not be labeled as “prohibited persons” only for needing financial help.

• The VA is working with the FBI to remove past reports that were based only on fiduciary status.

• This new policy is effective immediately.

Why the Policy Is Changing

The VA says this change is needed because:

• Veterans were being reported without a court hearing.

• Federal law requires a judge or court decision before someone can be added to the background check system.

• Needing help with finances does not meet that legal requirement.

The VA reviewed the policy with the Department of Justice and found that the old practice did not follow federal law.

When Veterans Can Still Be Reported

There are limited situations where reporting can still happen:

• A court or judge makes a legal decision that meets federal law.

• There is a proper judicial or quasi‑judicial ruling.

Simply needing a fiduciary is not enough to trigger reporting.

What This Means for Veterans Already in the Program

Veterans in the Fiduciary Program will not be reported under the new policy.
The VA is also working to remove older reports that were based only on fiduciary status.

This means Veterans will not lose firearm rights simply because they receive help managing their VA benefits.

How to Apply for the Fiduciary Program

Veterans who need help managing their VA benefits can still apply through VA.gov or by contacting the VA directly.

Being in the program will not affect firearm rights under this new policy.

When This Change Starts

This policy is active right now.

This update protects Veterans’ rights and ensures that financial help does not lead to unfair reporting. Veterans and families should stay informed and visit VA.gov if they have questions about their situation.