Home-buying laws & updates

VA Home Loan Funding Fee (2026)

The one-time fee on VA-backed purchase loans and how your down payment changes it.

Every item cites an official source (FHFA, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, HUD or VA) and the date we checked it. Last checked Oct 22, 2026.

General information only. Not legal, tax or financial advice. RentToolkit is not a lender, law firm or financial adviser. Mortgage rules change often and lenders can add stricter rules of their own ("overlays"), so confirm with the official source and a licensed loan officer before you act.

Official, in effect VA purchase loan funding fee

First use: 2.15% with less than 5% down, 1.5% with 5% or more, and 1.25% with 10% or more. After first use: 3.3%, 1.5% and 1.25%. Some veterans, such as those receiving VA disability compensation, don't pay it. VA loans can be used on a 1-4 unit home you live in.

Jargon buster: Funding fee. A one-time fee VA charges on most VA-backed loans. You can pay it at closing or roll it into the loan.
Worked example: VA funding fee
  • $200,000 home with $10,000 down (5%), first use.
  • Loan $190,000 × 1.5% = $2,850.

Example numbers are for learning only. Your lender's figures will differ.

Source: VA.gov: VA funding fee and closing costs · Checked Oct 22, 2026

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General information only. Not legal, tax or financial advice. RentToolkit is not a lender, law firm or financial adviser. Mortgage rules change often and lenders can add stricter rules of their own ("overlays"), so confirm with the official source and a licensed loan officer before you act.