VA Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan (IRRRL): Reduce the Monthly Payment for Your VA Loan
In this guide, we’ll explain exactly what a VA IRRRL (Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan) is, who qualifies, and why it’s smarter than a standard rate-and-term refinance for eligible homeowners.
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What is a VA IRRRL?
- No appraisal or income/asset documentation required in most cases
- No credit check if you’re refinancing with your current servicer
- Lower VA funding fee: only 0.5%, or waived for service-connected disabilities
- Ability to roll closing costs and funding fees into the loan
- Flexible term options: up to original term + 10 years (max 30 yrs + 32 days)
- Quick closings with minimal paperwork
Quick Answer
A VA IRRRL is a streamlined, low-cost refinance option available only to current VA loan borrowers. It’s perfect for lowering rates or stabilizing payments fast and easily.
Why Consider a VA IRRRL?
Here's why eligible homeowners choose to refinance with a VA IRRRL
Competitive Interest Rates
Because the loan is backed by the VA, lenders can offer lower rates than many other loan types.
Low-to-No Closing Costs
The VA limits what closing costs a borrower can pay, protecting your out-of-pocket expenses at closing.
Minimal Documentation Required
VA IRRRLs are designed to be streamlined. In most cases, you won’t need to provide a new appraisal, income verification, or even a credit check, helping you get to the closing table faster and cheaper than a conventional refi.
Pro Tip
You only need to wait 210 days from the first payment on your current VA loan before refinancing with an IRRRL, so you may be eligible sooner than you think.
VA Loan Eligibility Requirements in 2025
Existing VA Loan
You must already have a VA-backed home loan. IRRRLs can’t be used to refinance a conventional, FHA, or USDA loan.
Current Occupancy
You need to certify that you currently live in, or have previously lived in, the home being refinanced.
Clean Payment History
Typically, you must be current on your existing VA loan with no more than one late payment (30+ days past due) in the past 12 months.
Waiting Period Passed
At least 210 days must pass since the first payment on your current VA loan before you can refinance with an IRRRL.
Debt-to-Income (DTI)
Typically 41%, but can be higher in certain circumstances
Compare a VA IRRRL to a Rate & Term Refinance
VA IRRRL
Rate & Term Refi
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How to Apply for a VA IRRRL
Pre-Qualification
Answer a few quick questions online or with a UMortgage Loan Originator (LO).
Get Custom Loan Options
We’ll confirm your VA eligibility and show you your lower-rate refinance options, usually with no appraisal or income docs required.
Lock In Your Rate
When you see a competitive VA rate, you can lock it in—protecting your payment from market swings.
Streamlined Closing
Finalize your paperwork, verify VA entitlement, and close quickly, often faster than other refinance programs.
Frequently Asked Questions About VA IRRRLs
Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions we get about VA IRRRLs
Here's Why UMortgage is Your Best Choice
Relationships, Not Transactions
We’re here for more than just your mortgage. We’ll stick with you beyond closing to help you gain financial freedom through homeownership.
Local & Nationwide Expertise
With licensed loan officers across the country and deep knowledge of your local market, we’ll help you buy with confidence anywhere you call home.
Fast, Transparent Closings
We communicate with you every step of the homebuying or refinance process so you can close quickly without any hidden fees or surprises.