Here are some of the basics credit unions should know about the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act, according to NAFCU. The trade association provides a summary in the public section of its Web site at www.nafcu.org under the `Compliance' section. * It caps the maximum interest rate on all loans and extensions of credit taken before the date of active duty to 6%, which begins the date of active duty until the end of active duty. Credit unions cannot try to recoup any interest lost and co-borrowers do not matter. * There is a stay of repossession or real or personal property for until 90 days after return from active duty. * Members cannot be penalized for terminating a real estate lease after providing notice and copies of the orders. Termination is effective 30 days after the next payment due. * Auto leases may be terminated if called up for at least 180 days or if service is extended for that long. * No default judgments can be issued against someone on active duty unless and until represented by a lawyer. * Enforcements and collections may be stayed while on active duty, or within 60 days after, unless the member's ability to defend is not materially affected by the activation. * Garnishments may be stayed while on active duty plus up to 60 days after discharge. * The time served on active duty does not apply to any statute of limitations. * Under certain conditions active duty military can stay enforcement of their obligations without penalty. * In many cases, dependents of active duty servicemembers are also covered. * Courts have said members can sue for SCRA violations. * Relief other than the 6% interest rate cap is not terminated until up to 90 days after discharge. * Servicemembers may waive the SCRA protections. -

[email protected]