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The 2025 VA disability pay chart is projected to see a 2.6% COLA increase, impacting monthly compensation for veterans. While the official numbers arrive in October 2024, estimates show potential changes in VA disability pay for 2025, with a 100% disability rating potentially increasing to $3,835.99. These adjustments aim to reflect cost-of-living changes, though whether […]

Navy Federal offers VA loans with competitive rates and no lender fees, but rates fluctuate, and membership is required. Explore the benefits and drawbacks of Navy Federal’s VA loan rates: while they can be low, they aren’t always the best. Credit score flexibility and military-focused service are pros, but limited branch presence and mixed service

Many misconceptions surround VA loans, but the truth paints a much more favorable picture for veterans. Contrary to popular belief, VA loans can be reused, and their closing times are comparable to conventional loans. VA appraisals are designed to ensure the property’s safety and livability—not to derail deals. While the VA funding fee replaces private

VA Loan vs. Conventional Loan—you’ve heard both tossed around, but here’s the real: which one makes sense for you right now? And here’s a bigger question most vets are asking—can you use a VA loan more than once? Short answer: yes. But let’s not stop there. Every day I talk to folks in the real

The VA IRRRL streamlines refinancing for veterans, requiring six on-time payments and 210 days from the first payment due date. This VA IRRRL refinance timeline ensures borrowers benefit from lower rates without rapid refinancing. IRRRL lowers rates, while VA cash-out refinances access equity. IRRRL skips appraisals and income checks, unlike cash-out. VA IRRRL Refinance Timeline

VA loan refinancing offers two main paths: IRRRL for streamlining existing VA loans to lower rates, and cash-out refinance for accessing home equity, even from non-VA loans. Understanding VA loan refinancing options is crucial for veterans. IRRRL simplifies with no appraisal or income checks, while cash-out enables debt consolidation or investment, requiring more thorough underwriting.

Your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) is determined by three key factors: duty station ZIP code, pay grade, and dependency status. Learn what determines your BAH amount: location significantly impacts rates due to local rental costs, higher ranks receive more allowance, and having dependents increases BAH. Annual DoD adjustments and PCS moves also affect BAH.

BAH, or Basic Allowance for Housing, aids military members with off-base housing costs. Rates vary by rank, location, and dependency status. Learn how BAH rates are determined for 2025, factoring in rental market averages and utility costs. The DoD aims for about 95% coverage, not always 100%. BAH differs from COLA and is separate from

VA loans, despite flexible standards, strictly enforce residual income requirements, ensuring borrowers can manage living expenses after paying debts. This means meeting VA residual income requirements is crucial, as it measures post-expense financial breathing room, not just DTI. Common issues include underestimating expenses, low co-borrower income, omitted non-taxable income, large households with modest income, and

Military members often overlook their Leave and Earnings Statement (LES), missing vital financial insights. Using Your LES for Smart Financial Planning involves understanding entitlements, deductions, and TSP contributions. Regular LES review helps prevent errors, aligns spending with income, and facilitates informed decisions on savings, investments, and real estate, ultimately ensuring financial stability. What’s Really Holding