Hey everyone, I was a co-signer on a car loan before I joined the military. I know SCRA applies to active duty members, but does it apply to me as a co-signer too? My loan was started before I enlisted, and I’m just wondering if I can get the same protections as the primary borrower. I’ve got a high interest rate on it (like 16%) and I’m hoping SCRA could help. Anyone know how this works?
I’m in the same boat! I was a co-signer too and thought SCRA would automatically apply to me. Turns out, it doesn’t unless you petition for it in court. It’s a pain, but I guess that’s how it works.
Brianna said:
I’m in the same boat! I was a co-signer too and thought SCRA would automatically apply to me. Turns out, it doesn’t unless you petition for it in court. It’s a pain, but I guess that’s how it works.
Wait, so you can only apply for SCRA if there’s a court case? That’s kinda frustrating. Does anyone know if it’s worth trying to petition?
@Hollis
Yeah, pretty much. You need a judge to extend the protection to you as a co-signer. I think it’s not worth it unless there’s a legal issue with the loan.
Ohh I didn’t know SCRA didn’t automatically apply to co-signers. So basically, it’s not gonna help unless something goes wrong with the loan?
Cypress said:
Ohh I didn’t know SCRA didn’t automatically apply to co-signers. So basically, it’s not gonna help unless something goes wrong with the loan?
Yep, exactly. It’s like you’re not considered the primary person with the loan, so they don’t just automatically give you the same benefits.
I thought the SCRA could help with things like interest rates, but if there’s no lawsuit, it doesn’t seem like you’d get much help. Sorry to hear that, though. 
Zen said:
I thought the SCRA could help with things like interest rates, but if there’s no lawsuit, it doesn’t seem like you’d get much help. Sorry to hear that, though.
Yeah, it’s a bummer. Was hoping to lower the 16% rate but looks like that won’t happen unless things get messy with the loan.
I have a similar situation with my car loan, and I was hoping the SCRA would help. But I guess unless there’s a legal dispute, it doesn’t apply. That’s frustrating.
Sal said:
I have a similar situation with my car loan, and I was hoping the SCRA would help. But I guess unless there’s a legal dispute, it doesn’t apply. That’s frustrating.
Same here, didn’t know it worked like that. I guess I’ll just keep paying and hope I don’t run into any issues. 
I had the same question a while ago. It’s super annoying, but co-signers don’t get the same automatic benefits unless there’s a court case. Not much we can do unless things go south.
Frey said:
I had the same question a while ago. It’s super annoying, but co-signers don’t get the same automatic benefits unless there’s a court case. Not much we can do unless things go south.
That’s such a bummer. Seems like the SCRA is meant for active duty, but it doesn’t really do much for co-signers.