|
(2)
Legal Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Will we be reimbursed for unexpected expenses (for example: purchased airline tickets, booked vacations, etc.) resulting from the deployment extension? A: While these issues will have to be fully resolved on an individual basis, here is some information to help you get started.
American Airlines/American Eagle 1-800-433-7300 Please contact individually through the website Click on Reservations/Refunds – www.aa.com for assistance in refunds or waivers of fees. Contact the Customer Relations or Refunds Department (918-254-3777) for assistance or fax to 1.817.967.4162. Servicemember will need a letter from Chain of Command. Servicemember will also need a copy of their extension orders and ticket information .
Delta Airlines 1-800-847-0578 Servicemember will need a letter from the Chain of Command and their ticket information. Family members on the same flight may also be eligible for a refund or credit for future flight.
Jetblue Airways 1-800-538-2583 There will be a 1 year credit. Servicemember may need to speak to a supervisor to explain the circumstances surrounding cancellation. Servicemember will need a letter from the Chain of Command and a copy of their orders.
Northwest Airlines 1-800-225-2525 -There will be a one year credit and a waiver of the regular $100 fee for Servicemembers and Family Members if the change is due to a change in military orders. Individuals will need to contact the airline individually with ticket information and orders. Passenger Refund Department 1.612.726.2422.
Southwest Airlines 1-800-435-9792 Supervisor stated that the SM can get refund or waived fees. Service Member and/or Family Member needs to contact Customer Relations from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM CST Monday through Friday at 1.214.792.4223 for assistance.
There are certain steps that you MUST take in order to ensure you the best results for these financial issues.
1) First contact the organization with which you purchased tickets, placed a deposit, or entered into some type of financial relationship. Explain the situation; let them know that you have an official memorandum explaining the extension (or the extension orders) and are requesting a change of ticket, refund, or your request. You may choose to call, or you may elect to have a military attorney in the Legal Assistance Office (253-967-0587) help you.
2) Most organizations will ask for some proof of the extension. You may have to provide them with a copy of the extension orders to acquire refunds or changes.
3) Keep copies of all documents and receipts; keep a written record of any denials. If completed on the internet, please print out receipts, confirmations, and e-mails. Take notes during telephone calls. Record the names of the customer service representatives with whom you speak. Ask that any denials of your request be put in writing, and mailed or e-mailed to you.
Q: My Power of Attorney is about to expire. What should I do? A: Powers of Attorney are available at the Fort Lewis Legal Assistance Office located in building 2027. Powers of Attorney are available: Mondays and Wednesdays 0900-1630; Tuesdays 0900-1130 and 1300-1630; Thursdays 1300-1630; and Fridays 0900-1130 and 1300-1430. Walk-in legal assistance is available on a first come-first-serve basis. Walk-in hours are: Tuesdays and Wednesdays 0900-1130 and 1300-1630; Thursdays 1300-1630; Fridays 0900-1130 and 1300-1430. The phone number is 253-967-0587. There is no way to “extend” an existing Power of Attorney (POA).
Q: Where can I get help with tax issues? A: The Fort Lewis Tax Center is open and can assist with any tax questions to include filing returns. The phone number is 253-967-1040. It is located in the basement of building 2026 B.
Q: What if I have a legal question not addressed above? A: For all other personal legal issues, please call the Legal Assistance Office at 253-967-0587, between 8:00AM and 5:00PM for an appointment.
Q: I entered a lease based on the assumption that my spouse would return to Washington on the date listed on his or her original orders. Now that he or she will not return on the original date, I will not need to rent in Washington until a later date. What can I do? A: The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) allows for residential leases to be terminated early and without penalty in specific circumstances. Those leases include: 1. leases that were executed by or on behalf of a person who then enters military service during the term of the lease 2. leases that were executed by a servicemember who then receives orders for a PCS (Permanent Change of Station) 3. leases that were executed by a servicemember who then receives orders to deploy for at least 90 days
In order to properly terminate such leases, the lessee must deliver written notice and a copy of deployment orders to the lessor. It is a good idea to have proof of delivery of the written notice. Therefore, it is recommended that delivery is made by certified mail or by hand delivery with a written receipt.
***If you think that you qualify for early termination of a residential lease, you should visit the Ft. Lewis Legal Assistance office. An attorney can verify your eligibility and can help prepare the required notice***
Q: My landlord told me that he or she did not need written notice of my intent to vacate my apartment and terminate my lease. I did not provide written notice, nor did I provide a copy of my spouse’s orders. My landlord wants to charge me rent? Do I have to pay? A: The SCRA requires a Soldier to provide written notice and a copy of orders to his or her landlord. The Servicemember may be financially liable for failure to provide the orders and/or written notice. If you have any questions or would like assistance, see a Legal Assistance Attorney.
|