If you’re a member of the Armed Forces or part of a military family, you face unique challenges managing your finances and personal information. And when it comes to some consumer issues, like preventing identity theft, you have special rights.
Military Families
Cars
From buying a new or used car, to maintaining it, to trading it in, it’s important to know exactly what you’re paying for, how you can save money, and what your rights are if something goes wrong.
Buying a Used Car
The Buyers Guide is required on all used cars sold by dealers. Read about payment options, private sales, warranties, service contracts and spoken promises.
Understanding Vehicle Financing
Before you lease or financing a new or used vehicle, learn more about your options and what to expect at the dealership.
Auto Service Contracts and Warranties
What’s the difference between a service contract and a warranty? Find out, and get tips on how to recognize and avoid auto warranty scams.
Auto Repair Basics
Take the scare out of auto repair with these tips about how your vehicle works, how to identify common problems, and how to select a good mechanic.
Charitable Donations
Military families generously support military families in need. Don’t get sucked in by scams that take advantage of your goodwill.
Charitable Solicitations for Vet & Military Families
How to donate to legitimate charities that support servicemembers and their families.
Credit
Bad credit has unique implications for military personnel. Take steps to understand how credit products work and how to avoid financial pitfalls.
Payday Loans
Payday loans can be a very costly way to borrow money when you factor in the interest rates and fees.
Advance-Fee Loans
Some advance-fee loan and credit card offers have tell-tale signs that can help you avoid getting ripped off.
Identity Theft
Learn about your right to place an active duty alert on your credit report, what to do immediately if you suspect identity theft, and how to reduce your risk.
Active Duty Alerts
An active duty alert adds an extra layer of protection to the credit records of servicemembers while they are deployed.
Saving Money
Small steps can add up to big savings. Save money when you travel, make major purchases, manage utilities, and much more.
66 Ways to Save Money
These tips can help you save money on everyday purchases and big ticket items.
File a Consumer Complaint
Through Consumer Sentinel/Military, the FTC collects complaints from military personnel and their families to share with civil, criminal and military law enforcement. Your complaints help the FTC and the Department of Defense identify and target problems that affect you.
File a complaint if you’ve been a victim of a scam or other dishonest business practices.
