(a) Interest. In addition to the principal amount of the debt, the debtor is liable for the payment of interest. Interest accrues on the principal amount of the debt as of the date of default, as defined in § 201.2(h) of this part, as follows:

(1) In the case of a debt based upon the assignment of a defaulted note, interest is assessed at the lesser of the rate specified in the note or the United States Treasury's current value of funds rate in effect on the date the Title I insurance claim was paid.

(2) In the case of a debt based upon the assignment of a judgment, interest is assessed at the lesser of the rate specified in the judgment or the United States Treasury's current value of funds rate in effect on the date the Title I insurance claim was paid.

(b) Penalties and administrative costs. The Secretary shall assess reasonable administrative costs and penalties as authorized in 31 U.S.C. 3717,unless.