What is an Affected Individual? A Comprehensive Legal Overview
Definition & Meaning
An affected individual is a person who meets specific criteria related to military service or disaster situations. According to federal law, this term refers to someone who:
- Is on active duty during a war, military operation, or national emergency.
- Is performing qualifying National Guard duty during such times.
- Lives or works in an area declared a disaster zone due to a national emergency.
- Has experienced direct economic hardship because of a war or military operation, as determined by the Secretary of Education.
Legal Use & context
The term "affected individual" is primarily used in the context of education law, particularly in relation to student assistance programs. It is relevant for individuals seeking relief or assistance due to circumstances arising from military service or natural disasters. Understanding this term can help users navigate legal documents and applications for educational benefits or financial aid, especially through resources like US Legal Forms, which offer templates for related legal processes.
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A service member deployed overseas during a national emergency qualifies as an affected individual, allowing them to access certain educational benefits.
Example 2: A resident of a city affected by a natural disaster, such as a hurricane, may qualify as an affected individual if they experience economic hardship as a result. (hypothetical example)
Relevant laws & statutes
The primary statute governing the term "affected individual" is 20 USCS § 1098ee, which outlines the definition and criteria for individuals seeking educational assistance related to military service and national emergencies.