New Justice Department Fact Sheets Clarify Lease Termination Rights for Servicemembers and Veterans

The U.S. Department of Justice announced the release of two new fact sheets designed to help servicemembers and veterans avoid unnecessary rent payments and costly fees. Released around Veterans Day, the guidance details how military personnel and their dependents can legally end residential, business, and vehicle leases early upon receiving eligible military orders.

Military families frequently relocate through a process called Permanent Change of Station moves, which often leads to leases that need to be terminated early. The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act permits servicemembers to cancel these agreements so they are not stuck paying for housing or vehicles they can no longer use while serving the country.

Understanding Eligible Military Orders

The new fact sheets place special emphasis on an often-overlooked part of lease termination rights: retirement and separation orders. When servicemembers transition into veteran status, they receive retirement or separation papers showing they are leaving military service. Because these are not typical moving orders, leaseholders and landlords may not realize they are covered under the law, which can leave transitioning families paying for homes or vehicles they no longer need.

Enforcement and Legal Protections

The Servicemembers and Veterans Initiative, part of the Civil Rights Division, works to protect the rights of armed forces members and veterans from unfair treatment. The Housing and Civil Enforcement Section, alongside U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, enforces the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act across the country. Since 2011, this enforcement effort has secured over $490 million in monetary relief for more than 153,000 servicemembers.

Steps for Affected Servicemembers and Veterans

Servicemembers, veterans, and dependents who believe their rights under the law have been violated should contact their nearest Armed Forces Legal Assistance Program Office to review their options. Office locations can be found online through the military legal assistance directory. Individuals who are not eligible for military legal assistance services may submit a complaint directly through the Justice Department’s civil rights website to request a review of their claim.

Navigating lease terminations and transitioning out of the military can involve complex legal questions. Speaking with an attorney can help ensure that military families understand their rights and successfully resolve any disputes regarding early lease cancellations.

This article is general information based on U.S. Department of Justice and court or agency records available at publication time. It is not legal advice; laws and deadlines differ by state and by case. Published November 11, 2026.