Compare Today's VA Mortgage Rates

Current VA mortgage rates

NerdWallet’s mortgage rate tool can help you find competitive, customized VA mortgage rates. In the “Refine results” section, enter a few details, and in moments you’ll get a rate quote tailored to meet your needs, without having to provide any personal information. From there, you can start the process of getting approved for your VA home loan.

VA loan eligibility requirements

• Active-duty service members who served 90 continuous days.

• Veterans who have met length-of-service requirements (generally 90 days in wartime and 181 days in peacetime).

• Service members or veterans who have completed 90 days of active-duty service or six creditable years in the Selected Reserve or National Guard.

• Surviving spouses of veterans who died while in service, died from a service-connected disability, went missing in action or were a prisoner of war. Surviving spouses who have remarried are only eligible if the marriage was after age 57 or after Dec. 16, 2003. 

Select members of other organizations may also be eligible, such as Public Health Service Officers or Officers of the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration.

What determines my VA loan interest rate?

Many factors influence the mortgage rate you’re offered, including the economy, your financial details and the lender. The best way to find out if you’re being quoted a good VA mortgage rate is to apply with multiple lenders.

With a Loan Estimate from each lender compared side-by-side, you’ll be able to see which lender is giving you a good mortgage rate combined with the lowest origination fees.

Personal details that will influence your rate offers include your:

• Credit score: Generally speaking, higher scores come with lower rates. While the VA doesn’t set a specific minimum credit score, lenders will generally want to see a score of at least 620. 

• Existing debt: Ideally, your total amount of monthly debt obligations (including your mortgage and other loans) should not account for more than 41% of your monthly pre-tax income. 

• Loan term: While shorter mortgage terms will have a higher monthly payment (say, a 15-year loan vs. a 30-year loan), they also come with lower rates. 

• Down payment: While this isn’t required for a VA loan, a down payment will lower your loan-to-value ratio, which can result in a lower rate.

• Overall market conditions: Average mortgage rates fluctuate daily and are influenced by many economic factors, as well as the actions of the Federal Reserve.  

• Lender: Interest rates can vary by lender, which is why it’s important to shop around with at least three. NerdWallet’s experts have curated a list of our top picks for VA lending. 

How VA loans compare with conventional mortgages

For home shoppers who qualify, VA loans have unique benefits over conventional loans.

On average, VA home loans tend to have better mortgage rates than conventional loans. The rate you’re offered will depend on your credit score and other personal financial details, as well as the lender.

» MORE: VA loans vs. conventional loans

Pros and cons of VA loans

VA loans are often a good deal for borrowers who qualify — especially if they want to buy without making a down payment. Here are some benefits and one drawback to VA loans.

» MORE: Get your credit score for free

» MORE: What is APR and how does it affect your mortgage?

Learn more about VA loans:

• FHA vs. VA Loan: Which One Is Right For You?

• VA loan calculator

• Best VA mortgage lenders