Veteran Finance Blog

VA Loans

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📅 Feb 25, 2026 ⏱️ 6 min read ✍️ VRT Staff

IRRRL Streamline Refinance: Everything Veterans Need to Know in 2026

The Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan (IRRRL) is the simplest and fastest way to lower your VA mortgage payment. With minimal paperwork, no appraisal in most cases, and a funding fee of just 0.5%, the IRRRL is designed to save veterans money quickly. Here's your complete guide with current rates, eligibility requirements, and tips to get the best deal.

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VA Disability

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📅 Feb 22, 2026 ⏱️ 8 min read ✍️ VRT Staff

5 Mistakes Veterans Make When Filing VA Disability Claims (And How to Avoid Them)

Filing a VA disability claim can be overwhelming, but understanding common mistakes can dramatically improve your chances of getting a fair rating. From insufficient medical evidence to missing secondary conditions, learn the five critical errors that cost veterans their earned benefits and how to avoid each one.

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Finance

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📅 Feb 19, 2026 ⏱️ 5 min read ✍️ VRT Staff

What to Do With Your TSP After Leaving the Military

Your Thrift Savings Plan doesn't disappear when your service ends. With industry-low expense ratios of about 0.04%, the TSP remains one of the best retirement vehicles available. Learn your options: keep it in TSP, roll over to an IRA, consolidate with a 401(k), or start withdrawals.

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Benefits

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📅 Feb 15, 2026 ⏱️ 7 min read ✍️ VRT Staff

10 Veteran Benefits Most Don't Know They Qualify For

Beyond the well-known VA healthcare, GI Bill, and home loan benefit, there are dozens of lesser-known perks available to veterans. From state property tax exemptions to free national park access, space-available military flights, and commissary privileges — discover benefits you might be leaving on the table.

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Career

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📅 Feb 12, 2026 ⏱️ 6 min read ✍️ VRT Staff

SkillBridge: How to Land a Civilian Job While Still on Active Duty

The DoD SkillBridge program allows service members to intern with civilian employers during their last 180 days while still receiving military pay and benefits. Learn how to apply, which companies participate, and strategies to turn your internship into a full-time offer.

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Refinance

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📅 Feb 8, 2026 ⏱️ 5 min read ✍️ VRT Staff

VA Cash-Out Refinance vs. IRRRL: Which Is Right For You?

Both the IRRRL and VA cash-out refinance can save you money, but they serve very different purposes. The IRRRL is about lowering your rate quickly, while cash-out lets you tap up to 100% of your home equity. Compare costs, eligibility, and scenarios to find the best fit.

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