5 Shifts in Veteran Financial Protections & What It Means for Your Savings
At Veteran Saves, we believe that saving isn’t just about putting money aside, it’s also about having systems in place that help protect your financial progress. Recently, some of those protections have changed, and those changes can directly impact the way Veterans and military families save, borrow, and plan ahead.
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We’re focused on solutions and giving you the tools, information, and next steps you need to stay financially confident, no matter what shifts are happening around you.
Here are five changes that may affect your financial life, and what you can do to stay protected and empowered:
1. Military Lending Act (MLA) Oversight Has Been Reduced
What it means for Savers:
Less oversight could mean more high-cost loans slip through the cracks, putting savers at risk of predatory lending.
What you can do:
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Be cautious with quick-cash offers or loans that seem too good to be true.
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Use your base legal office (JAG) to review any loan documents before signing.
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If something feels wrong, file a complaint at consumerfinance.gov/complaint.
2. Fewer Service Members Are Receiving SCRA Benefits
What it means for savers:
Some military families are missing out on interest rate caps and other protections, which can lead to unnecessary financial strain.
What you can do:
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Proactively send your active-duty orders to lenders with a written request for the 6% interest cap.
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If denied, reach out to your base legal office or the CFPB for assistance.
3. Fewer Staff Supporting Military Complaints at CFPB
What it means for Savers:
Military-related complaints may take longer to resolve, which can delay the help you need.
What you can do:
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Continue submitting complaints at consumerfinance.gov/complaint.
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For urgent issues, also contact your state’s Attorney General or the FTC.
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Use the CFPB’s Military Consumer page for up-to-date guidance.
4. Less Oversight on Auto Lending Practices
What it means for Savers:
Without strong consumer protections, auto loans — especially around military installations — may carry inflated prices or unfavorable terms.
What you can do:
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Get pre-approved through a credit union or military-affiliated bank.
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Take your time and review all fees before signing.
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If a deal feels off, seek help from JAG or file a complaint.
5. Slower Scam & Identity Theft Monitoring
What it means for Savers:
Scams targeting Veterans and military families may go undetected longer, increasing the risk of financial fraud.
What you can do:
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Use free credit monitoring tools offered through military banks or credit unions.
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Visit IdentityTheft.gov immediately if you suspect fraud.
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Stay informed with trusted resources like MilitaryConsumer.gov.
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If saving feels more difficult lately, it’s not just you. But with awareness, support, and small steps, progress is still possible.
At Veteran Saves, we’re here to help you stay informed and take action. Whether it’s building a starter emergency fund, reducing debt, or setting a goal that fits your life today, you’ve got this, and we’ve got your back.
Take the Veteran Saves Pledge to commit to a savings goal that’s right for you, and let us support you every step of the way.
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Heads up: things change fast. The info in this post is current as of the publish date of June 12, 2025, but some details might shift over time. For the latest updates and resources, be sure to check out consumerfinance.gov, MilitaryConsumer.gov, or connect with your base legal office.