Guard Members: You Have More Rights Than You Think

Here's something many National Guard members don't realize: SCRA protections don't start when you report for duty—they start the moment you receive orders. This distinction matters enormously, and misunderstanding it costs Guard members thousands of dollars in benefits.

Whether you're heading out for an overseas deployment, responding to a domestic emergency, or attending extended training, here's what changes when you're activated—and how to take advantage of it.

When SCRA Kicks In for Guard Members

SCRA coverage for National Guard members is triggered when you are called to active duty under Title 10 for a period that will exceed 30 consecutive days. Key points:

  • Coverage begins on the date of your orders, not your report date
  • The 30-day threshold refers to the expected duration, not actual time served
  • Title 32 orders (state active duty) generally do not trigger SCRA
  • Some states have their own protections that mirror SCRA for state duty

This means if you receive 90-day deployment orders on March 1 but don't report until March 15, your SCRA coverage starts March 1.

What Debts Qualify for Protection

Here's where it gets important for Guard members: SCRA covers debts incurred before your active duty start date (the date on your orders). This includes:

  • Your mortgage on your civilian home
  • Your car loan
  • Credit cards opened before activation
  • Student loans from before your military career
  • Personal loans and lines of credit

If you've been in the Guard for years but always on Title 32 or drill status, debts you incurred during that time still qualify when you get Title 10 orders. The "pre-service" requirement means pre-active duty, not pre-Guard.

The Retroactive Benefit

Guard members activated for emergencies often don't think about SCRA in the chaos of mobilization. Good news: you can apply for benefits retroactively.

If you were activated six months ago and have been paying 15% on a credit card, you can:

  1. File for SCRA rate reduction now
  2. Have the 6% rate applied back to your activation date
  3. Receive a refund for all excess interest paid since then

Don't let the fact that you didn't file immediately stop you from filing now.

COVID-19 Activations: A Case Study

During the COVID-19 pandemic, thousands of Guard members were activated under Title 10 for pandemic response. Many didn't realize these activations qualified for SCRA protection.

If you were activated for COVID response and didn't file for SCRA benefits at the time, you may still be able to claim refunds for that period. Contact your lenders and provide documentation of your activation dates.

Common Questions from Guard Members

"I'm only activated for 45 days. Do I qualify?"

Yes. If your orders are for more than 30 consecutive days under Title 10, you qualify. Even relatively short activations trigger full SCRA protection.

"What about my annual training?"

Annual training typically doesn't qualify because it's usually under Title 32. However, if your AT orders are under Title 10 for more than 30 days, they could qualify. Check your orders carefully.

"I have debts from when I was on Title 32 status. Do those qualify?"

Yes. Debts incurred while on Title 32 status qualify for SCRA protection when you're subsequently called to Title 10 active duty. The timing of the debt relative to Title 10 activation is what matters.

"What happens when my activation ends?"

SCRA protections continue for a period after your active duty ends—typically 180 days for foreclosure protection and varying periods for other protections. Interest rates may return to their original levels after your coverage period ends, but the savings during activation remain yours.

Action Steps for Guard Members

The moment you receive Title 10 orders:

  1. Make copies of your orders—you'll need them for every lender
  2. List all your debts with account numbers and current interest rates
  3. Note the date on your orders—this is your SCRA start date
  4. Contact lenders immediately—don't wait until you return
  5. Request retroactive application if you've been activated for a while

Your Service Deserves Protection

National Guard members sacrifice their civilian careers and family time to serve when called. The SCRA exists to ensure that sacrifice doesn't come with unnecessary financial burden. Know your rights, file your claims, and keep more of what you've earned.