VA Funding Fee Calculator

The VA funding fee is a one-time charge collected at closing on every VA-guaranteed loan, funding the program for future veterans. The fee varies by loan type, down payment, and whether it is your first or subsequent use of the VA entitlement. Service-connected disabled veterans and surviving spouses are exempt. Source: VA Pamphlet 26-7 Chapter 8.

2026 Fee Schedule

Purchase or construction: 2.15% (first use, 0% down), 1.5% (first use, 5%+ down), 1.25% (first use, 10%+ down). Subsequent use: 3.30% (0% down), 1.5%, 1.25%. IRRRL streamline refinance: flat 0.5%. Cash-out refinance: 2.15% first use / 3.30% subsequent. Native American Direct Loan: 1.25%. The fee is unchanged from 2023-2026.

Who Is Exempt

Veterans receiving VA service-connected disability compensation (any rating 10%+), surviving spouses receiving DIC, Purple Heart recipients on active duty at closing, and active-duty service members with a Purple Heart award are exempt. The exemption must be verified by VA — usually the lender obtains a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) showing exempt status. If you become exempt after closing, you may be entitled to a refund.

Financing the Fee

Most borrowers add the funding fee to the loan balance rather than paying cash at closing. Financing the fee preserves cash but adds to total interest paid over 30 years. A $7,535 fee (2.15% × $350k) financed over 30 years at 6.5% costs about $47.65/month — totaling $17,154 over the loan life. If you have the cash, pay at closing to save the interest.

Last updated May 2026. Sources: VA Pamphlet 26-7 Chapter 8, VA Funding Fee Tables.