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Military & Veterans

SCRA 6% Interest Rate Cap on Pre-Service Debt

Servicemembers Civil Relief Act caps ALL pre-service debt (mortgage, credit card, student loan, auto) at 6% during active duty.

Overview

50 U.S.C. §3937 (SCRA) caps interest on debt incurred BEFORE entering active duty at 6% during service — including credit cards, auto loans, mortgages, private student loans. Excess interest is FORGIVEN, not deferred. Written notice to lender + copy of orders required. Federal student loans get a separate 0% rate during service in a hostile area. Also protects against foreclosure/eviction/default judgments.

Best fit
Active-duty servicemembersReservists/Guard called to active dutyRecently activated with pre-service debt
Estimated impact
$1K–$10K+ in forgiven interest per year of service

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