When can I refi a VA Loan?

 

One of the most common questions Veterans ask is whether they can refinance their VA loan through the Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan (IRRRL) program before they’ve made a full 12 months of payments.

The short answer: Yes, as long as you have made a minimum of 6 months on-time monthly payments to your current mortgage servicer.

While many lenders prefer to see a 12-month payment history, the VA doesn’t have a hard-and-fast rule requiring a full year of payments. What matters most is that you’ve made at least six consecutive on-time payments, and that your lender’s internal policy allows an early refinance.

VA IRRRL Early Refinance Guidelines

Here’s what to keep in mind if you’re considering an early refinance:
✅ Payment History: Most lenders want at least six months of on-time mortgage payments.
✅ Seasoning Requirement: The VA requires at least 210 days from the first payment date and at least six consecutive monthly payments before the refinance can close.
✅ Net Tangible Benefit: You must show a clear financial benefit — such as lowering your rate, switching from ARM to fixed, or shortening the term.
✅ Credit and Income: Even though IRRRLs are “streamlined,” lenders still review credit and income to ensure you can comfortably afford the new loan.

Example:

Let’s say you closed on your home loan in January. You made your first payment in March. By September (after six payments and more than 210 days since your first payment date), you could be eligible for an IRRRL — even if you haven’t reached a full year.

If rates have dropped since you bought your home, that early refinance could lower your monthly payment, save on interest over time, and free up extra cash for other goals.

The Bottom Line

Don’t wait a full year if you don’t have to.
If you’re a Veteran or Active Duty service member with a VA loan, you may be able to refinance sooner than you think — and the savings could add up quickly.

Before applying, talk to a VA-approved lender who understands the 210-day rule and the nuances of VA refinance timing.

Ready to find out if you qualify for an early IRRRL refinance?
Let’s review your situation together — it only takes a few minutes.

📞 972-832-5761
🌐 www.natecarver.com

About the Author

Nate Carver
Veteran | Mortgage Loan Officer | Premier Lending, Inc.
Helping Veterans and families achieve homeownership through education, strategy, and heart.

About Between Two Doors

Between Two Doors is a podcast where I talk with Realtors about their journey, aiming to connect home buyers and sellers with agents on a more personal level. I ask "right brain" questions that go beyond transactions, focusing on the experiences, values, and passions that make these professionals great at what they do.

Listen to more episodes at: https://www.betweentwodoors.com

Sponsored by:
Premier Lending, Inc.
https://www.natecarver.com

NMLS Numbers:
NMLS: 2004738
Licensed by the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI). Equal Housing Opportunity.
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Contact: 972-832-5761

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