What are the three criteria established by the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) to determine if an individual will be protected?

The correct answer identifies the specific conditions under which the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) provides protection for individuals. The criteria that must be met are that the person is in the military of the United States, actively serving in a duty status, and has been materially affected by that duty.

Being "in the military of the United States" establishes the individual's eligibility as a servicemember, while being "on active duty" confirms that they are currently serving, which is essential for SCRA protections to apply. The third criterion, being "materially affected as a result of active duty status," is critical as it signifies that the individual's financial situation or ability to manage obligations has been adversely impacted due to their military service. This connection between service and financial hardship is what qualifies them for the protections afforded by the SCRA, such as the ability to suspend certain legal proceedings or defer certain financial obligations while on active duty.

Other options fail to encapsulate the necessary relationship between military status, active duty, and material effect on financial circumstances, which is fundamental to the protections outlined in the SCRA.