Disclaimer
This guide is published by USA Homeownership Foundation, Inc., dba the Veterans Association of Real Estate Professionals (VAREP), and is intended solely for general informational and educational purposes. It is not legal, financial, tax, or credit advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional consultation with qualified attorneys, financial advisors, or licensed housing counselors.
While VAREP is a HUD-Approved Housing Counseling Agency and a registered Veteran Service Organization, the content presented herein is based on publicly available information, commonly accepted financial practices, and organizational experience as of the date of publication. VAREP makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the information. Laws, regulations, policies, and financial products are subject to change without notice.
VAREP is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), or any other government agency. The views and information expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of any government entity.
No client-counselor, fiduciary, or professional relationship is created by the use of this guide or reliance on its content. Users are solely responsible for decisions made based on this material and are strongly encouraged to seek individualized advice from appropriately licensed professionals.
VAREP expressly disclaims any liability for any loss, harm, or damages arising from the use of or reliance on this publication.
Compliance and Non-Discrimination Notice
Fair Housing and Equal Access Statement
VAREP (Veterans Association of Real Estate Professionals), a HUD-Approved Housing Counseling Agency, is committed to providing housing counseling and financial education services in accordance with the Fair Housing Act and all applicable civil rights laws.
We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, familial status, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status. We are committed to equal opportunity and equitable access for all individuals and families.
Limited English Proficiency (LEP) Access
VAREP is committed to ensuring meaningful access to services for clients with limited English proficiency. Upon request, we will provide translation materials or access to interpreter services in accordance with HUD guidelines.
For assistance in another language, please contact us at: info@varep.net.
HUD Disclaimer
The content does not necessarily reflect the views or policies of HUD or the U.S. Government.
Privacy and Confidentiality Statement
VAREP protects the confidentiality of all personal information shared during housing counseling or financial education.
We do not disclose any personally identifiable information to third parties without your written consent, except as required by law or for HUD grant compliance and reporting purposes.
Introduction
The Comprehensive Credit Guide: Military & Veteran Edition is a trusted resource designed specifically for servicemembers, veterans, and military families navigating the complexities of credit. Whether you’re building credit for the first time, maintaining financial health during service, or recovering from setbacks, this guide provides clear, practical strategies tailored to your unique experiences—including the financial impacts of deployments, Permanent Change of Station (PCS) moves, transition to civilian life, and other service-related challenges.
Unlike general financial materials, this edition draws on real-world data and insights specific to the military community.
Studies show:
That’s why VAREP—a HUD-Approved Housing Counseling Agency and registered Veteran Service Organization—developed this guide: to provide accessible, veteran-centered guidance for every stage of the credit journey.
From establishing credit, to protecting it, to rebuilding it when needed, our comprehensive approach integrates trusted tools, certified counseling, and mission-driven support.
You’ve served your country. Now it’s time to strengthen your financial future, one credit decision at a time.
Disclaimer
Compliance and Non-Discrimination Notice
Introduction
Section 1: Understanding Credit Scores
Section 2: Obtaining Your Credit Score
Section 3: Military-Specific Credit Challenges
Section 4: High-Interest Loans and Their Impact on Servicemembers
Section 5: Credit Considerations for Transitioning Servicemembers
Section 6: Rehabilitating Damaged Credit
Section 7: Credit Repair vs. Credit Rehabilitation
Section 8: Protecting Against Identity Theft
Section 9: Resources and Tools for Servicemembers and Veterans
Section 10: How VAREP Can Help
Appendix A: Glossary of credit and Financial Terms
Appendix B: Sample Letter for Credit Disputes
Appendix C: SCRA Dispute Resolution Letter
Appendix D: Credit Readiness Checklist
Appendix E: Credit Repair Action Checklist
Appendix F: Military-Specific Benefits Checklist
Appendix G: Credit Monitoring & Identity Theft Protection Checklist
Appendix H: Homebuying Credit Checklist (VA Loan Ready)
Understanding Credit Scores.
What Is a Credit Score?
A credit score is a three-digit number, typically ranging from 300 to 850, that reflects your creditworthiness—how likely you are to repay borrowed money. It’s based on data from your credit report and used by lenders, landlords, insurers, and even employers to evaluate financial reliability.
The Scoring Models – What’s the Difference? CREDIT
How Credit Scores Are Calculated.
Credit scores are calculated using five main factors:
Payment History (35%) – On-time payments are critical. Amounts Owed (30%) – Keep credit utilization low (under 30%).
Length of Credit History (15%) – The longer, the better.
New Credit (10%) – Too many recent applications can hurt your score.
Credit Mix (10%) – A blend of credit cards, loans, etc., is ideal.
The FICO® Score is the most widely used credit score, influencing over 90% of lending decisions, including most mortgage approvals. It requires at least six months of credit history and recent activity, which can be a barrier for some military borrowers. FICO weighs five key factors—payment history and amounts owed being the most significant. While it’s a trusted tool for lenders, its stricter requirements mean veterans and servicemembers may need more time and strategy to build a qualifying score.
The VantageScore®, developed by the three major credit bureaus, is a newer credit scoring model designed to be more inclusive—especially for those with limited credit histories. Unlike FICO®, which requires six months of activity, VantageScore can generate a score after just one month, making it ideal for servicemembers with thin credit files. The latest version, VantageScore 4.0, uses trended data to assess how you manage credit over time, not just at a single point. Now accepted by the VA for certain loan evaluations, VantageScore helps expand access to credit for thousands of veterans previously considered “credit invisible.”
What’s the Difference?
The two most widely used credit scoring models are FICO® and VantageScore®. While both assess similar data and use the same 300–850 scale, they differ in key areas: FICO® vs. VantageScore®:
Feature
Used by most lenders
Credit history requirement
Responsiveness to new activity
Forgiveness of past mistakes
FICO® Score
Yes (90%+ of lending decisions)
At least 6 months of activity
Prioritizes long-term patterns
Less forgiving of late payments
VantageScore®
Growing adoption, esp. in VA lending
Can generate score after 1 month
More responsive to recent credit behavior
More forgiving of older issues
Note: The Department of Veterans Affairs now accepts VantageScore 4.0, expanding access to VA home loans for veterans who may lack long-established credit under FICO® criteria.
Why Credit Matters: The Real-Life Impact.
Secure lower interest rates.
Qualify for VA loans.
Rent housing without high deposits.
Pass employment screenings.
Reduce insurance premiums.
Note: A low or nonexistent credit score, by contrast, can lead to higher costs, limited options, or even disqualification from critical benefits. For transitioning servicemembers, poor credit can be an unexpected barrier to housing, transportation, or civilian employment.
How Lenders Use Your Credit.
Lenders use your credit report and score to assess how likely you are to repay borrowed money. This evaluation influences whether you're approved, how much you can borrow, and the terms you’re offered.
Here's how your credit impacts lending decisions:
Approval: A higher score improves your chances of being approved for credit cards, auto loans, personal loans, and mortgages—including VA loans.
Interest Rates: Better credit typically means lower rates. Even a small score increase can save thousands over the life of a loan.
Loan Amounts & Limits: Lenders use your credit history to decide how much to lend or what credit limit to assign.
Terms & Fees: Lower scores may result in higher fees, stricter terms, or the need for collateral.
VA Loan Note: While the VA doesn’t set a minimum score, most lenders require one—typically between 580 and 640—to approve a VA home loan.
Note: A solid credit profile gives you more options, better rates, and stronger financial footing. Knowing how lenders view your credit is key to making smart borrowing decisions.
Obtaining Your Credit Score
Know Where You Stand—For Free.
Understanding your credit begins with knowing your score. Fortunately, there are free and secure ways to access your credit reports and scores without hurting your credit.
Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), all U.S. consumers are entitled to one free credit report every 12 months from each of the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
These reports can be requested at: www.annualCreditReport.com This is the only official, government-authorized source for free credit reports. Be cautious of look-alike websites that charge hidden fees or require sign-ups for subscriptions.
What You’ll Get.
Caution:
Credit Score (Optional): Some bureaus may offer your score for free, but others may charge a small fee. For a free score, consider reputable financial apps or your credit card provider, many of which offer VantageScore or FICO® Score monitoring at no cost. http://www.annualcreditreport.com
Credit Report: A detailed record of your credit accounts, payment history, balances, and inquiries. It does not include your credit score.
Note:
Phone:
Mail:
Phone: 1-888-397-3742 (1-888-EXPERIAN)
Mailing Address:
General Inquiries and Disputes:
Experian
P.O. Box 4500
Allen, TX 75013
Website:
https://www.experian.com/contact/personal-services-contacts.htmlConsumer%20Financial%20Protection%20Bureau+6Experian+6IdentityTheft.gov+6Ex perian%20Credit%20Report
https://www.experian.com/contact/personal-services-contacts.htmlCons umer Financial Protection Bureau+6Experian+6IdentityTheft.gov+6Experian Credit Report
Phone: 1-800-916-8800
Mailing Address:
Disputes and General Correspondence:
TransUnion Consumer Solutions
P.O. Box 2000
Chester, PA 19016-2000 TransUnion
Website:
https://www.transunion.com/customer-support/contact-us-consumers
https://www.transunion.com/customer-support/contact-us-consumers
Military-Specific Credit Challenges
PCS Moves.
Frequent relocations create logistical and financial strain, often leading to missed payments or temporary spikes in credit utilization.
Deployment.
Limited access to finances or reliance on others can result in overlooked bills and account issues.
Spousal Employment Instability.
Unemployment or underemployment among military spouses can reduce household income and increase reliance on credit.
Transition to Civilian Life.
Income gaps, delayed benefits, or employment barriers can disrupt budgets and harm credit during the transition period.
Veteran Credit Gaps.
Many veterans leave service with thin credit files or unresolved debt, impacting their ability to qualify for VA loans or rebuild financial independence.
High-Interest Loans and Their Impact on Servicemembers
Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA)
Caps interest at 6% on pre-service debt.
Prevents default judgments without court review.
Bars negative credit reporting due to SCRA use.
Allows lease and contract cancellation without penalty.
The Military Lending Act (MLA)
Caps interest rates (MAPR) at 36% on most consumer loans for active-duty servicemembers and covered dependents.
Prohibits mandatory arbitration clauses and certain predatory lending practices.
Requires lenders to provide clear, written disclosures.
Why Servicemembers Are Targeted
Have steady income
May be young and financially inexperienced
Face unique financial stressors such as PCS moves, deployments, or emergencies
May lack access to traditional credit due to limited or thin credit files
Note: This combination makes them particularly vulnerable to short-term, high-cost lending traps that can quickly spiral into long-term debt.
Credit Considerations for Transitioning Servicemembers
Start Preparing Early (24 months prior to separation)
Dispute any inaccuracies
Address delinquent accounts
Reduce credit utilization
Set up payment plans if needed
Build a Civilian Budget.
Your military paycheck will eventually stop, and your new income may not start right away. If you’re relying on VA benefits, GI Bill payments, or civilian employment, plan for any gaps.
Establish a realistic post-service budget that prioritizes essentials and avoids overextending your credit. Responsible spending during this time helps maintain your score and prevents debt accumulation.
Watch for Employment-Related Credit Checks.
Some civilian jobs, especially those in federal or security-sensitive roles, require a credit check as part of the hiring process. Poor credit—or unresolved debt—can raise red flags. Demonstrating active efforts to manage your finances (such as documentation of payment plans or credit counseling) can help mitigate concerns.
Military transition assistance programs (TAP).
HUD-approved housing counseling agencies like VAREP.
Veterans service organizations (VSOs).
Military-focused banks and credit unions offering transition products or financial coaching.
Rehabilitating Damaged Credit
Identify and Dispute Credit Report Errors:
Incorrect personal information
Outdated accounts or balances
Debts that don’t belong to you
Duplicate entries or accounts marked as delinquent in error
Note: You can dispute these inaccuracies online, by phone, or by mail with each credit bureau. Include documentation and clearly state what is wrong. The bureau must investigate and respond within 30 days.
Negotiate with Creditors and Debt Collectors
Settle for a reduced amount
Request a “pay for delete” (though not all creditors will agree)
Set up a payment plan to bring the account current
Keep records of all agreements in writing. Be cautious with third-party debt collectors and know your rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA).
Understand Debt Consolidation vs. Settlement Options
Debt consolidation combines multiple debts into one loan, ideally with a lower interest rate. This can simplify payments and reduce the risk of missed due dates. However, it’s important to avoid high fees or predatory lenders.
Debt settlement involves negotiating to pay less than you owe. This should be a last resort, as it can hurt your credit in the short term. Always work with a HUD-approved or nonprofit counselor before pursuing settlement strategies.
Rebuilding After Bankruptcy, Default, or Foreclosure
Applying for a secured credit card
Making all payments on time
Keeping credit balances low
Tracking your progress with regular credit checks
Repair VS. Credit Rehabilitation SECTION 7:
Credit
The Credit Repair Organizations Act (CROA) makes it illegal for companies to:
Charge upfront fees:
Guarantee score increases or deletions
Misrepresent services
Encourage false information on disputes
Watch for warning signs:
High-pressure sales or “limited-time” offers
No written contract
Promises of a “new credit identity”
Asking for your online account logins
“Pay-to-delete” guarantees without proof
The Problem with Letter-Writing Schemes:
Many paid credit repair firms send mass dispute letters—hoping negative items get temporarily removed. But if those items are accurate, they often return once verified, damaging your score again.
Common tactics include:
Flooding credit bureaus with generic disputes
Exploiting unverifiable data
Misleading you about your rights under FCRA
Often unregulated & high cost
Report Suspicious Services
CFPB: consumerfinance.gov/complaint
FTC: reportfraud.ftc.gov
State Attorney General: Contact your local office
Protecting Against Identity Theft
Recognizing the Signs of Identity Theft
Unexpected credit inquiries or accounts on your report.
Bills or collection notices for unknown debts.
Sudden drops in your credit score.
Denials of credit you didn’t apply for.
Fraud Alerts: Contact one credit bureau to request a one-year alert (they will notify the others). Lenders must verify your identity before opening new accounts.
Active Duty Alerts: Special protection for servicemembers. Lasts 12 months and can be renewed.
Credit Freezes: Prevents new credit from being issued under your name. You must contact all three bureaus to initiate or lift a freeze.
Resources for Victims
Report identity theft at: IdentityTheft.gov
File a police report if necessary
Dispute fraudulent activity with the credit bureaus
Contact your base’s legal or financial readiness office for support
Credit management doesn’t have to be a solo mission.
There are powerful, trustworthy resources available exclusively to the military and veteran community that can enhance the strategies covered in this guide.
Each of the three major credit bureaus offers free electronic credit monitoring for active-duty servicemembers and National Guard members.
Equifax: Military Credit Monitoring
Experian: Military Credit Monitoring
TransUnion: Active Duty Credit Monitoring
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB).
Your Money, Your Goals – Military Edition
Veterans Affairs Financial and Housing Assistance.
The VA offers a range of programs that can directly or indirectly support your credit and financial health:
VA Home Loans – Low-interest, no-down-payment mortgage options.
Housing Assistance – Support for homeless veterans or those facing eviction.
VA-approved financial counseling – Pre-purchase, foreclosure prevention, and budgeting.
National Veterans Financial Resource Center (FINVET)
is a VA-affiliated initiative to help veterans:
Manage debt.
Improve budgeting and financial literacy.
Avoid common financial pitfalls.
CFPB’s Servicemember Complaint Assistance.
Have an issue with a lender, debt collector, or credit bureau?
You can file a formal complaint through the CFPB’s secure complaint portal. The bureau investigates and works toward resolution.
How VAREP Can Help SECTION 10:
As a HUD-Approved Housing Counseling Agency and Veteran Service Organization, VAREP provides trusted, no-pressure support to help you take control of your credit.
Services We Offer:
1-on-1 HUD-Certified Credit & Budget Counseling.
Pre-Purchase & VA Loan Readiness Evaluations.
Debt Management Plans.
Credit Score Action Plans.
Workshops & Webinars.
Personalized guidance to review your credit, identify barriers, and set goals.
Understand what lenders are looking for and build a roadmap to mortgage approval.
Structured plans to reduce interest, consolidate payments, and repay debt over time.
Step-by-step strategies to build, restore, or strengthen your credit profile.
Live and on-demand educational sessions covering budgeting, credit, and homeownership readiness.
Appendix A: Glossary of credit and Financial Terms
Annual Percentage Rate (APR):
The total cost of borrowing expressed as a yearly interest rate, including fees and interest. Used to compare credit products.
Authorized User:
A person added to someone else’s credit card account. The account’s activity may appear on the authorized user’s credit report.
Bankruptcy:
A legal process that allows individuals or businesses to eliminate or repay debts under the protection of the bankruptcy court. It significantly impacts credit.
Charge-Off:
A debt a creditor has written off as uncollectible, typically after 180 days of non-payment. It remains on your credit report and affects your score.
Collections:
When a debt is sent to a third-party agency for recovery after missed payments. Collections accounts damage your credit score.
Consolidation Loan:
A loan that combines multiple debts into one payment, often with a lower interest rate. Can simplify repayment but may extend the loan term.
Credit Bureau:
A company that collects and maintains consumer credit information (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) and generates credit reports.
Credit Counseling:
A service that helps consumers manage debt and create a financial plan. HUD-approved agencies like VAREP provide this service.
Credit Limit:
The maximum amount you can borrow on a credit card or line of credit.
Credit Monitoring:
A service that tracks changes to your credit report and alerts you to potential fraud or identity theft.
Credit Report:
A detailed record of your credit history, including accounts, balances, and payment behavior. Maintained by credit bureaus.
Credit Score:
A numerical representation of your creditworthiness, typically ranging from 300 to 850. Used by lenders to assess risk.
Credit Utilization:
The ratio of your credit card balances to your credit limits. Keeping it below 30% is ideal for your credit score.
Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI):
The percentage of your monthly gross income that goes toward debt payments. Lenders use this to assess loan eligibility.
Delinquency:
A late payment on a credit account. Can range from 30 to 180 days past due and negatively impact your credit.
Dispute:
A formal process to challenge incorrect or outdated information on your credit report.
Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA):
Federal law that gives consumers the right to access and dispute errors on their credit reports.
FICO® Score:
The most widely used credit scoring model by lenders. Ranges from 300 to 850 based on five key credit factors.
Forbearance:
An agreement to temporarily pause or reduce loan payments due to financial hardship.
Hard Inquiry:
A lender’s review of your credit for a new loan or credit application. May slightly lower your score.
Identity Theft:
When someone uses your personal information to open accounts or make purchases fraudulently.
Installment Loan:
A loan paid back in fixed monthly payments over a set period (e.g., auto loan, personal loan, mortgage).
Minimum Payment:
The smallest amount you must pay on a credit account each month to remain in good standing.
Revolving Credit:
A credit line you can use repeatedly up to your limit, such as a credit card.
Secured Credit Card:
A card that requires a cash deposit as collateral. Designed to help build or rebuild credit.
Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA):
A federal law offering financial protections to active-duty servicemembers, including interest rate caps and credit safeguards.
VantageScore®:
A credit scoring model used by some lenders and bureaus. Like FICO®, it ranges from 300 to 850 and considers similar factors.
Appendix B: Sample Letter for Credit Disputes
Sample Credit Dispute Letter Template
[Your Full Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]
Date: [MM/DD/YYYY]
To:
[Credit Bureau Name]
[Address of Credit Bureau]
(Can be Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion — use correct address)
Subject: Dispute of Inaccurate Information on Credit Report Report Number (if available): [Include if applicable]
Dear [Credit Bureau Name],
I am writing to formally dispute the following item(s) listed on my credit report. I have reviewed my credit file and found the following information to be inaccurate, incomplete, or unverifiable.
Disputed Item(s):
Creditor Name: [Name of the creditor]
Account Number: [Account number as listed on the report]
Reason for Dispute: [e.g., This account is not mine / The payment status is incorrect / The balance is wrong / The account was paid in full]
In accordance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), I am requesting that this item be investigated and, if found to be inaccurate or unverifiable, removed or corrected from my credit report.
I have enclosed copies of supporting documentation to assist with your investigation, including:
[Examples: A statement from the creditor, a police report (in case of identity theft), proof of payment, etc.]
Please complete your investigation within the 30-day period as required under the FCRA and notify me in writing of the outcome. I also request that you send me an updated copy of my credit report showing the results of this dispute.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your prompt resolution.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Signature, if mailing]
Enclosures:
[List any documents you’re including — e.g., copy of ID, proof of address, supporting evidence]
Appendix C: SCRA Dispute Resolution Letter
Sample SCRA Violation Dispute Letter
[Your Full Name]
[Your Rank, Branch of Service]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]
Date: [MM/DD/YYYY]
To:
[Creditor or Financial Institution Name]
[Attn: SCRA Compliance or Legal Department]
[Address of Creditor]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Subject: Dispute of SCRA Violation and Request for Corrective Action
Dear [Creditor Name or SCRA Compliance Officer],
I am writing to formally dispute what I believe to be a violation of my rights under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA), codified at 50 U.S.C. §§ 3901–4043.
I am currently serving on active duty in the U.S. [Branch of Service], and
I believe your company has taken action against me or my account that violates SCRA protections. Specifically, I am disputing the following:
Alleged Violation Details:
Account Name/Number: [List name and account number]
Nature of Violation: [Examples: Charged interest above 6% on a pre-service loan, reported a negative credit event due to military service, failed to suspend collection efforts while I was deployed, denied early termination of a lease, etc.]
Date of Incident: [Provide approximate date(s)]
Under the SCRA:
Pre-service debts are subject to an interest rate cap of 6% upon written request and proof of military service.
Negative credit actions resulting from military service cannot be reported.
Civil actions (including collections, foreclosures, and evictions) require court approval.
Enclosed are documents supporting my active-duty status and the nature of this dispute, including:
A copy of my military orders or Department of Defense verification
Account statements or communications that reflect the violation
Request for Resolution:
Investigate this matter promptly in accordance with SCRA obligations. Cease any adverse actions and correct any errors.
Refund or adjust interest and fees improperly charged (if applicable)
Confirm in writing the steps your organization will take to address this issue.
Please respond within 30 days of this letter. If this matter is not resolved, I may report this violation to my legal assistance office, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), or the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB).
Thank you for your prompt attention.
Sincerely, [Your Full Name]
[Rank, Branch of Service]
Enclosures:
Military orders or service verification
Account documentation
Any related correspondence
Appendix D: Credit Readiness Checklist
Task Complete? Notes
I know my current credit score from all three bureaus (Experian, TransUnion, Equifax).
I have pulled my full credit reports (free at AnnualCreditReport.com).
https://www.annualcreditreport.com/
I have reviewed my credit reports for errors or inaccuracies.
I understand what factors affect my credit score (payment history, credit utilization, length of history, etc.).
I have no unpaid collections, charge-offs, or judgments.
I know my Debt-to-Income (DTI) ratio.
I have at least one active, positive credit account (e.g., credit card or auto loan).
I’ve identified any accounts that are behind and created a plan to bring them current.
I am aware of my rights under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).
Yes No
If on active duty, I’ve taken advantage of military-specific credit protections like the SCRA. Yes No
I have set a goal for what I want to achieve with my credit (e.g., qualify for a VA loan, lower interest rate).
Yes No
Appendix E: Credit Repair Action Checklist
Task Complete? Notes
Identified and listed all negative items (late payments, collections, charge-offs, etc.).
Disputed inaccurate or outdated items with the credit bureaus.
Sent dispute letters to original creditors (if needed).
Followed up with credit bureaus within 30–45 days to confirm dispute resolution.
Negotiated settlements or pay-for-delete agreements on collections.
Brought all past-due accounts current or made payment arrangements.
Set up autopay or reminders to avoid future late payments.
Kept credit utilization below 30% on revolving accounts (credit cards).
Opened a secured credit card or credit-builder loan (if no active credit lines).
Avoided applying for too many new accounts (limit hard inquiries).
Monitored credit score monthly using trusted services or free tools.
Celebrated each milestone and tracked progress over time.
Appendix F: Military-Specific Benefits Checklist
I’ve requested interest rate reductions under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) (e.g., 6% cap on pre-service debt).
I’ve reviewed my eligibility and protections under the Military Lending Act (MLA) (e.g., capped interest rates, no mandatory arbitration).
I’ve set up a Financial Power of Attorney for use during deployments or PCS moves.
I’ve checked with my military legal assistance office about resolving debt or credit disputes.
I’ve updated creditors and bureaus with my deployment or PCS address to avoid missed payments or mail issues.
I am enrolled in free credit monitoring through Equifax and TransUnion as an active-duty servicemember.
I’ve reviewed my VA disability or pension benefits for potential impact on credit, housing, or income reporting.
I understand how my Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) can be used in mortgage qualification (VA loan).
I’ve taken steps to safeguard personal data during deployments (e.g., fraud alerts, credit freeze).
I know where to get help with military financial counseling (e.g., VAREP, Military OneSource, NFCC, base resources).
Yes No Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Appendix G: Credit Monitoring & Identity Theft Protection Checklist
I’ve enrolled in free active-duty credit monitoring with TransUnion and Equifax.
Yes No
I regularly check my credit reports (at least once a year) through AnnualCreditReport.com
Yes No
https://www.annualcreditreport.com/
I’ve set up credit alerts or score monitoring tools via my bank, credit card provider, or credit bureau.
I’ve placed a fraud alert on my credit if I suspect identity theft.
I’ve considered placing a credit freeze to prevent unauthorized credit activity.
I’ve reviewed my accounts for unfamiliar charges or unauthorized new accounts.
I know how to report identity theft (FTC.gov/complaint and all three credit bureaus).
I’ve taken extra steps to protect data during deployment or PCS (e.g., limited public Wi-Fi, POA for financial accounts).
I’ve reviewed security settings on financial apps, bank accounts, and emails.
I use two-factor authentication (2FA) where available.
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Appendix H: Homebuying Credit Checklist
My credit score meets the minimum threshold for most VA lenders (typically 580–640+).
I’ve resolved or am actively addressing collections, charge-offs, or judgments.
My payment history shows no recent (past 12 months) mortgage or rent delinquencies.
My Debt-to-Income (DTI) ratio is below 41% or I’ve discussed compensating factors with a VA lender.
I’ve established at least one active, seasoned credit account in good standing.
I’ve kept my credit utilization ratio under 30% on revolving accounts.
I’ve avoided opening or applying for new credit within the past 90 days.
I’ve budgeted for upfront homebuying costs (e.g., earnest money, inspections, closing costs).
I’ve obtained a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the VA.
I’ve been prequalified or preapproved by a VA-experienced lender.
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
"I didn’t even know where to start with my credit—felt like a lost cause. But my VAREP counselor walked me through everything step by step. No judgment, just real help".
— James, U.S. Army Veteran
"After I got out, things got tight fast. I wasn’t sure I’d ever qualify for a home. VAREP connected me with someone who actually listened—and showed me how to get back on track".
— Tina, U.S. Navy Veteran
"Credit was always something I avoided—until I realized it was standing between me and buying a house. My VAREP counselor broke it down in a way that made sense".
— Marcus, U.S. Air Force Veteran
"I’ve worked with other programs before, but VAREP was different. My counselor really understood military life—and what it takes to rebuild after tough times”.
— Rachel, U.S. Marine Corps Veteran
