VA Loans 2026: The Ultimate Guide
$0 down payment, no PMI, and the best rates available. Your complete guide to VA home loans for veterans, active-duty service members, and surviving spouses.
Check VA Rates TodayVA Loan Benefits at a Glance
What Is a VA Loan?
A VA loan is a mortgage guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs that offers $0 down payment, no PMI, and competitive interest rates for eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and surviving spouses. The VA doesn't lend directly — it guarantees a portion of the loan, reducing risk for lenders.
Who Is Eligible for a VA Loan?
To qualify for a VA loan, you must have served 90 consecutive days during wartime, 181 days during peacetime, or 6 years in the National Guard or Reserve. Surviving spouses of veterans who died in service or from service-connected disabilities are also eligible.
VA Funding Fee 2026
The VA funding fee ranges from 1.25% to 3.3% of the loan amount. It can be paid upfront or rolled into the loan. Veterans with a 10%+ service-connected disability rating are exempt from the funding fee.
| Down Payment | First Use | Subsequent Use |
|---|---|---|
| 0% (no down) | 2.15% | 3.3% |
| 5-9.99% | 1.5% | 1.5% |
| 10%+ | 1.25% | 1.25% |
| Disabled Veterans (10%+) | $0 (Exempt) | $0 (Exempt) |
Check Your VA Loan Eligibility
See if you qualify for $0 down and the best rates available.
Check My VA EligibilityVA Loan FAQ
What is a VA loan?
A mortgage guaranteed by the VA offering $0 down, no PMI, and competitive rates for eligible veterans and service members.
Who is eligible?
90 days wartime service, 181 days peacetime, 6 years Guard/Reserve, or surviving spouse of eligible veteran.
Is there a loan limit?
No limit with full entitlement. Reduced entitlement is subject to conforming limits ($766,550 most areas).
What is the funding fee?
1.25-3.3% of loan amount. Waived for disabled veterans with 10%+ rating.
Can I use VA loan benefits more than once?
Yes! VA entitlement is reusable. You can use it multiple times throughout your life.
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