Money & Debt

Resources covering credit and loans, taxes, collections and repossessions, and bankruptcy.

A computer generated image of a series of papers layered on top of each other. The top paper is a check list with red check-marks on it.

Sample SF-180

A sample version of form SF-180: Request Pertaining to Military Records
Photo of a calculator, papers and pens on a table

IRS Debt: Options for Low-Income Taxpayers

What to do if the IRS sends you a notice saying you owe them money.
Photo of a calculator, papers and pens on a table

Where to get free help if you owe a tax debt to the IRS

Where to get free help.
Photo of a calculator, papers and pens on a table

Don't Leave Money on the Table: Tax Credits and Public Benefits

Are you getting all of the tax credits and benefits you qualify for? Use our checklist to find out.
Photo of a calculator, papers and pens on a table

Filing a Tax Return When Deployed

Your tax return must be signed to be valid. If you are married, then you and your spouse must both sign the return. However, if you are deployed, there are other options. If your spouse has a valid power of attorney to attach with the return, then he or she can sign for you. You can also use IRS Form 2848.
A scale on a table in a courtroom

Postponing a Lawsuit Against You

What if I am sued while on active duty?

Photo credit Chris Benson. A young black man sitting on a bench embracing a young child

Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) for Surviving Spouses and Children

DIC is a tax-free monthly benefit paid by the VA to eligible survivors of the following:
A computer generated image of a series of papers layered on top of each other. The top paper is a check list with red check-marks on it.

Interactive Form - Letter to Request Lower Credit Card Interest Rate

As a member of the Armed Forces, Reserves, National Guard or other uniformed services, you have some financial protections for you and your family when you are called into active duty military service.

A computer generated image of a series of papers layered on top of each other. The top paper is a check list with red check-marks on it.

Interactive Form - Letter to Request 6% Loan Interest Rate

When you go on active duty, it may be hard to keep up with all of your credit payments. This is especially true if you have loans with high interest rates. The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (“SCRA”) may allow you to reduce your rate of interest on those pre-existing loans while you are on active duty. This federal law sets a maximum interest rate of 6%. (This includes service charges, renewal charges and fees.)
A computer generated image of a series of papers layered on top of each other. The top paper is a check list with red check-marks on it.

Interactive Form - Collection Agency Stop Contact Letter

The Fair Debt Collections Practices Act gives you the right to send a letter to a collection agency telling them to stop contacting you. The letter can also point out billing mistakes and request verification of the debt (such as a copy of the contract that you signed).