How Veterans Are Earning Over $100K Per Year—Tax-Free—by Combining VA and SSDI Benefits

Will the VA Take Back Disability Benefit Payments? Overpayments Discovered

2025 VA Disability Pay Rates to Increase by 2.5%

Effective December 1, 2024, the 2025 VA disability pay rates will reflect a 2.5% increase, as announced by the Social Security Administration on October 10, 2024.

This adjustment is based on the latest Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA). Refer to the charts provided on this page to determine your eligibility and estimated monthly payout based on this increase.

A Text formatted version below:

2025 VA Disability Rates (Projected) – Without Children

Note: Veterans with 10%-20% ratings do not receive additional compensation for dependents.

2025 VA Disability Rates (Projected) – With Children

More insight at:
 DAV.ORG

Is There a $3,600 VA Stimulus Check in 2025? Here’s What Veterans Need to Know

With inflation and the rising cost of living continuing to impact millions of Americans, many veterans have been asking about the possibility of a $3,600 VA stimulus check in 2025. However, as of March 2025, there has been no official confirmation from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) or the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) regarding any such stimulus payment.

Instead, the only confirmed financial boost for veterans in 2025 is the 3.2% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), which has already been applied to monthly VA disability compensation and other federal benefits.

$3,600 VA Stimulus Checks in 2025: What’s the Reality?

Despite circulating rumors on social media and veteran forums, there is no standalone $3,600 VA stimulus check currently authorized by Congress, the VA, or the IRS.

The speculation appears to stem from confusion around the estimated annual increase in disability payments due to the COLA adjustment. For some veterans, the monthly increase from the 3.2% COLA could add up to around $3,600 across the entire year—but this is not a lump-sum stimulus payment.

Understanding the 2025 COLA Increase for Veterans

While a one-time stimulus isn’t on the table, eligible veterans are receiving more each month thanks to the 3.2% COLA increase. This adjustment, designed to help offset inflation, benefits those receiving:

• VA disability compensation
• VA pension
• Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC)
• Other VA-related monthly payments

How Much More Will You Receive?

Depending on the level of your disability compensation, the COLA increase could result in an additional $250 to $300 per month. Over a 12-month period, this can total roughly $3,600—but again, it is paid incrementally, not as a lump sum.

Learn more about the 2025 COLA increase on Military.Com.

2025 VA Payment Schedule

VA payments typically follow a predictable monthly schedule, usually issued on the first business day of the following month. If the 1st falls on a weekend or holiday, payments may arrive early.

Veterans should monitor their direct deposit accounts accordingly and contact VA support if payments are delayed.

Who Qualifies for VA Benefits?

To receive VA compensation or COLA-related increases, veterans must meet the following eligibility criteria:

• Honorable military service in any branch of the U.S. Armed Forces
• Permanent U.S. residency
• Service-connected disability (caused or aggravated by active duty)

If you meet these qualifications, you are automatically enrolled to receive COLA-based increases. No additional application is required.

The Bigger Picture: Financial Challenges Facing Veterans

While the COLA adjustment offers some relief, many veterans still face serious financial hurdles. These may include:

• Ongoing healthcare and disability-related expenses
• Limited employment opportunities due to service-connected conditions
• Rising costs of rent, utilities, and groceries

Financial educator Alex Beene notes that while COLA increases help preserve purchasing power, they rarely address the core affordability issues many disabled and retired veterans face.

How Veterans Can Stay Informed

To avoid misinformation and stay updated on real benefits, always rely on trusted, official sources:

• VA.gov – For all VA benefit updates
• IRS.gov – For tax-related relief and any future federal stimulus information
• SSA.gov – For Social Security-related COLA adjustments
• Benefits.gov – For an overview of available federal aid programs

Veterans can also contact the VA benefits hotline at 1-800-827-1000 or visit their local VA Regional Office for personalized assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is there a $3,600 VA stimulus check in 2025?
A: No. As of March 2025, there is no official confirmation of such a payment.

Q: Why do people mention $3,600?
A: That figure is the estimated annual increase in compensation some veterans receive from the 3.2% COLA adjustment.

Q: Do I need to apply for the COLA increase?
A: No. If you already receive VA compensation, the increase is automatic.

Final Thoughts

While there’s no special $3,600 VA stimulus check in 2025, the COLA increase offers steady monthly boosts that can add up significantly over the year. Veterans are encouraged to stay alert to future updates by checking VA.gov and IRS.gov regularly.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or financial advice. While all information is accurate as of the publication date and sourced from official government websites, readers are encouraged to verify details directly with the Department of Veterans Affairs or Internal Revenue Service for the most current updates.

In a move that’s left veterans groups, housing advocates, and thousands of former service members concerned, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has announced that it will end the Veteran Affairs Servicing Purchase (VASP) program—a key mortgage relief initiative created in response to its own prior missteps during the COVID-19 pandemic.

For many, this decision is more than a policy shift—it’s a potential turning point that could result in tens of thousands of veterans losing their homes.

What Happened?

Roughly a year and a half ago, during the aftermath of the pandemic, the VA made a sudden and highly criticized decision to end its COVID forbearance relief options, which had allowed veterans to pause their mortgage payments and tack them onto the end of their loan.

The abrupt halt came with no viable alternative, stranding thousands of veterans—many of whom were still recovering financially. Without a clear path to get current on their mortgages, veterans faced foreclosure or were forced to sell their homes.

After significant public pressure and a wave of veteran foreclosures, the VA implemented a stopgap solution: VASP. This program allowed the VA to purchase delinquent loans from mortgage servicers and offer affordable, low-interest payments directly to veterans. With rates as low as 2.5%, it helped more than 17,000 veterans avoid foreclosure.

But now, that lifeline is being pulled.

When Will the Program End?

According to the VA’s recent announcement on April 3, 2025, the VASP program will stop accepting new applications beginning May 1, 2025.

Their reasoning? The VA states it is “not set up or intended to be a mortgage loan restructuring service.” That has left many wondering: What’s next for veterans still at risk?

A History of Missteps

This latest announcement marks yet another chapter in a series of mismanaged efforts by the VA surrounding veteran mortgage relief.

To recap:

• During COVID, veterans were offered forbearance—an agreement with lenders to skip payments and add them to the end of the loan.

• In October 2022, the VA abruptly ended the partial claim program, which was the main tool for adding missed payments to the back of the mortgage.

• This left around 40,000 veterans without an affordable way to catch up, leading to a spike in foreclosures.

• VASP was created in response, offering relief to some—but not all—veterans in need.

Why Veterans Advocates Are Concerned

While the VA says it needs to step back from managing mortgages directly, no alternative relief program has been announced, and Congress has not passed new legislation to replace VASP.

Veterans groups and housing advocates are urging the VA to restore the partial claim option, which is still available to civilians through FHA, Fannie Mae, and Freddie Mac-backed mortgages. That method allows homeowners to move missed payments to the end of their loan term and resume payments—without the government needing to hold the loan.

Elizabeth B., representing the Mortgage Bankers Association, said it bluntly:

“Cutting the VASP program—especially before the VA stands up an alternative—would have one clear result: foreclosure. Period.”

A Bipartisan Push for a Replacement

Some Republican lawmakers, including Rep. Mike Bost (R-IL) and Rep. Derrick Van Orden (R-WI), have voiced their disapproval of VASP, but support a return to the partial claim system.

They argue it would provide veterans with relief while keeping the loan in the hands of traditional mortgage servicers—limiting government exposure while protecting veterans from losing their homes.

However, the Biden administration has stated that Congress must pass legislation to authorize such changes. Until that happens, the future remains uncertain for those who are still underwater on their loans.

Resources for Veterans in Need

If you or a fellow veteran is navigating this complex housing situation, there are still resources and trusted advisors who can help.

One of them is David Pekich of VA Housing Education—a veteran and long-time advocate for fair housing solutions. Whether you’re trying to refinance, lower your payment, convert your property into an investment, or just need honest guidance, David can provide clarity and options tailored to veterans.

With interest rates showing signs of decline, now may be a smart time to explore refinancing, especially with VASP coming to an end.

Final Thoughts

The VA’s decision to end the VASP program without a clear replacement once again puts thousands of veterans in a precarious position. Many are still dealing with the lingering effects of the pandemic and prior policy reversals.

For generations, the VA home loan program has been a powerful tool for building stability and wealth among those who’ve served. But unless the VA and Congress act swiftly to restore or replace critical relief options, that legacy may be tarnished for many.

💬 What Can You Do?

• Share this article with a fellow veteran or family member who might be affected.

• Contact your Congressional representatives to advocate for the reinstatement of partial claim options.

• Reach out to VA loan experts if you’re unsure about your mortgage options.

⚠️ Disclaimer:

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or housing advice. VeteransBenefitsHub.com is not affiliated with the Department of Veterans Affairs. Veterans experiencing mortgage distress are encouraged to contact the VA directly or speak with a certified housing counselor or VA loan expert.

More Resiurces about this topic: Militarytimes.com

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) has been evolving over the years, especially with the introduction of the Mission Act. One of the most significant aspects of this act is expanding VA Community Care, allowing veterans to access healthcare services outside of VA facilities. In this guide, we’ll break down how community care works, who is eligible, and why staying connected with your local VA is crucial.

What Is VA Community Care?

VA Community Care allows eligible veterans to receive healthcare services from approved non-VA providers. This option exists when VA facilities cannot offer the needed care or when it is in the veteran’s best medical interest to seek treatment elsewhere.

The concept of Community Care was solidified with the VA MISSION Act of 2018, which built upon previous initiatives to streamline veterans’ access to healthcare. The act clarified how veterans could seek care outside the VA and ensured that eligible veterans could access services in a timely and efficient manner.

Why Staying Connected to Your VA Matters

Even if you don’t need immediate care, maintaining regular contact with your VA facility is essential. Visiting at least once a year ensures that your eligibility for Community Care remains intact. If you haven’t been to a VA clinic in over a year, accessing Community Care might become more challenging. In some cases, re-establishing care might involve lengthy appointment wait times or even visits to an emergency room just to restore eligibility.

Eligibility Requirements for VA Community Care

To be eligible for Community Care, veterans must meet two basic requirements:

1. Enrollment in VA Healthcare: You must be enrolled or eligible for VA healthcare. If not yet enrolled, you can do so by submitting Form 10-10EZ on the VA’s website.

2. Approval from a VA Healthcare Team: Before receiving care from a community provider, you must obtain approval from your VA healthcare team. Attempting to seek care without prior authorization will result in the VA denying payment.

Additionally, veterans must meet at least one of the following criteria:

• Service Not Provided by the VA: If the VA does not offer the necessary medical service, Community Care may be approved.

• State or Territory Lacks Full-Service VA Healthcare: If you reside in a state or territory without full-service VA facilities (e.g., Alaska, Hawaii, Guam), you may qualify for Community Care.

• Distance Requirement Met: Veterans residing in Alaska, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, or Wyoming who met the 40-mile distance rule on June 6, 2018, may still qualify.

• Drive and Wait Time Standards:

  • Primary or Mental Healthcare: If the VA cannot provide an appointment within 30 minutes of drive time or 20 days from the request, Community Care may be authorized.

  • Specialty Care: If specialty care (e.g., cardiology) cannot be scheduled within 60 minutes of drive time or 28 days, veterans may use Community Care.

• Best Medical Interest: If your VA provider believes that specialized care is better served by a community provider, they may recommend Community Care.

• Quality Standards Not Met: If your local VA facility does not meet quality standards for the required treatment, you may receive authorization for community-based services.

Examples of VA Community Care Eligibility

Here are some real-world examples of when Community Care might be necessary:

1. Service Unavailable at VA: You require dialysis, but your local VA facility does not provide it.

2. No Full-Service Facility Nearby: You live in a remote state or territory without a full-service VA hospital.

3. Distance Rule Compliance: You live in a rural state and previously qualified under the 40-mile distance rule.

4. Drive and Wait Time:

   • Primary or Mental Healthcare: No appointment within 30 minutes or 20 days.

   • Specialty Care: No appointment within 60 minutes or 28 days.

5. Best Medical Interest: You need specialized care not available at your local VA.

6. Quality Standards Issue: The VA facility near you does not meet quality standards for your required treatment.

Final Thoughts: Navigating Community Care

Community Care can significantly impact veterans who need timely, specialized, or conveniently located healthcare. However, there are important steps to follow to ensure eligibility and approval. Always consult your VA healthcare team before seeking community-based services, and stay informed about your rights and requirements under the MISSION Act.

Disclaimer

The information provided here is intended to be a general guide and may not cover every situation. The VA healthcare system is complex and subject to change. For the most current and personalized information, visit the official VA Community Care page or consult with your local VA facility.

15 Ways You Could Lose Your VA Benefits: Don’t Make These Mistakes

As a veteran, your VA benefits are a vital part of your well-being and financial stability. However, there are several ways you could inadvertently lose or reduce these benefits. In this article, we will cover 15 ways you could lose your VA benefits, including a bonus tip that isn’t often discussed. Stay informed to protect the benefits you’ve earned.

1. Waiting Too Long to File

Delaying your claim can cause significant issues, as evidence becomes harder to gather over time. Filing as soon as possible after your service or injury is crucial to establishing a strong connection between your condition and your military service.

2. Incomplete Diagnosis or Treatment History

Providing an incomplete medical history or failing to document your conditions thoroughly can lead to denials or reductions in benefits. Always ensure your medical records are comprehensive and up to date.

3. Not Showing a Clear Service Connection (Nexus)

A service connection, or “nexus,” is critical for many VA claims. This link between your military service and your medical condition is often required unless the condition is presumptive. Without it, your claim will likely be denied.

4. Neglecting to File for Priority Review

Failing to request a priority review when applicable can delay your claim unnecessarily. This is especially important for veterans with severe disabilities or terminal illnesses.

Bonus Tip: Not Claiming Unemployability

If your disability prevents you from maintaining gainful employment, you may be eligible for Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU). Failing to claim unemployability can leave you without the full compensation you deserve.

5. Dishonorable Discharge or Other Than Honorable Discharge

If you were discharged under dishonorable conditions or other than honorable circumstances, you forfeit all VA benefits, including health care and education. While some “bad paper” discharges can be appealed or upgraded through the VA or Military Discharge Review Boards, it’s a difficult and lengthy process.

6. Fraud or Misrepresentation

Making false statements or knowingly submitting fraudulent claims can result in a total forfeiture of your VA benefits. The VA has strict procedures in place, including notifying you of any accusations and giving you the chance to respond. Criminal charges and repayment of benefits may also follow. Always be transparent and honest with your claims.

7. Incarceration

If you are convicted of a felony and incarcerated for more than 60 days, your disability compensation may be reduced or suspended. Pension benefits are entirely suspended during incarceration, although health care benefits may still be available. Even if charges are dismissed or reversed, it can take considerable effort to restore your benefits.

8. Failure to Report Income Changes

Certain benefits, like VA pension and Aid and Attendance, are income-sensitive. If your income increases and you fail to report it, your benefits may be adjusted or terminated. Always keep the VA updated on any changes to your financial situation.

9. Not Attending Medical Reexaminations

The VA may require periodic reexaminations for certain service-connected disabilities. Failing to attend these exams could result in a reduction or termination of your benefits. If you disagree with a decision about your condition improving, seek a second medical opinion to challenge it.

10. Noncompliance with Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Program (VR&E)

The VR&E program helps disabled veterans gain job skills and education. However, failing to participate actively or follow program guidelines can result in suspension or termination of benefits. Stay engaged and follow the rules to maintain eligibility.

11. Extended Time Abroad

Being out of the United States for extended periods can impact VA pension benefits. Always check with the VA before planning lengthy stays abroad to ensure your benefits won’t be affected.

12. Death of the Veteran

VA benefits generally do not transfer to surviving spouses or dependents. While there are survivor benefits like Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) and survivor pensions, eligibility criteria must be met, and the VA must be notified of the veteran’s death.

13. Changes in Dependency Status

Life changes such as divorce, remarriage, or children aging out of eligibility must be reported to the VA. Failure to do so can result in overpayment and a demand for repayment.

14. Receiving Conflicting Benefits

Receiving benefits from other sources, like military retirement or workers’ compensation, may affect your VA benefits. The VA enforces rules to prevent “double-dipping.” Always disclose any other benefits you are receiving to avoid potential penalties.

15. Neglecting to Stay Informed

VA policies and regulations change frequently. Failing to stay updated can result in missed opportunities for additional benefits or unexpected reductions. Regularly reviewing your eligibility and consulting with a VA representative can help you stay on top of your benefits.

Final Thoughts

While most veterans retain their benefits for life, staying informed about VA regulations and keeping your records up to date is essential. If you encounter issues or receive notifications of potential benefit loss, seek legal assistance or consult a VA representative promptly.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney or VA representative to address your specific situation and ensure that your benefits are protected.

Veterans Are Getting Ripped Off — Here’s Why

There’s no denying it: many veterans are being shortchanged when it comes to receiving their well-deserved benefits. The data backs this up, but the main reason behind it might surprise you — pride. It’s something that many veterans struggle with, and they’re not alone.

Pride can be a powerful and positive force, but it can also be the biggest roadblock for veterans trying to get the compensation they’re entitled to. It’s a mindset drilled into service members from the moment they enter boot camp — suck it up, don’t complain, keep moving forward. As soldiers, they were trained to think as a unit, to endure without question, and to handle pain and adversity with unwavering strength. Unfortunately, that same mentality often prevents them from seeking help once they’re out.

Pride as a Barrier to Benefits

For some veterans, pride keeps them from accepting the reality of their situation. They may not want to admit that they need help, and it can take years — sometimes even decades — to confront the truth and make progress. Many remain stuck in that same mindset, refusing to acknowledge that they’ve been hurt or that their lives are impacted by their service-related injuries.

Sometimes it takes a wake-up call to realize that pride is holding them back. Veterans need to see beyond old habits and recognize that pursuing disability compensation is not about weakness — it’s about securing the support they’ve earned.

Navigating the VA Claims Process

The VA claims process is complex and often feels like a battle of its own. While some active-duty personnel are taking proactive steps by filing claims within the one-year presumptive period or gathering medical evidence early, many veterans wait far too long, letting pride and misinformation get in the way.

If unsure where to start or feeling overwhelmed, it’s crucial to seek guidance from reliable sources. Medical evidence is key to a successful claim, and having a dedicated support team can make all the difference. Don’t hesitate to reach out to professionals who can help gather and present the necessary documentation.

The VA’s Perspective: Business, Not Charity

Let’s not sugarcoat it — the VA is a business. The system isn’t designed to make veterans’ lives easier; it’s designed to minimize payouts. They’re not going to hand over benefits without a fight. Understanding this reality is vital to building an effective strategy.

A claim is essentially a medical battle. It’s important to focus on gathering clear, credible evidence — from diagnosis to service connection to symptoms. Don’t waste time re-arguing points that have already been won. Instead, zero in on what still needs to be proven, and prepare for pushback.

Dealing with Opinions and Judgment

One of the hardest parts of the process is ignoring the noise from people who think they know the situation better than the veteran does. Comments like “You don’t look disabled” or “Why are you rated higher than me?” can hit hard, but they’re irrelevant. Each journey is unique, and the fight is with the system, not with the opinions of others.

There’s no need to justify a disability to anyone. Only a doctor’s opinion and medical records matter when it comes to a VA claim. Veterans should surround themselves with support and block out the negativity from those who don’t understand their struggles.

Strategic Risks and Personal Decisions

There’s always a risk when pursuing increased compensation. Filing for an increase can potentially result in a decrease if the VA decides to re-evaluate the condition. That’s why it’s essential to weigh the potential gains against the risks. Sometimes, holding onto what’s already secured is more important than pushing for a little extra.

Some veterans reach a point where they must decide whether to pursue Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) beyond their 100% Permanent and Total rating. After careful consideration, many choose not to risk their existing benefits. Every situation is different, but it’s crucial to think strategically and plan wisely.

Final Thoughts

The numbers don’t lie. With over 18 million veterans out there, it’s hard to believe that so many left the military completely unscathed. If you’re one of the countless veterans who walked away without a disability rating or adequate compensation, take a hard look at your situation. Pride might be the one thing standing in your way.

Take charge of your benefits claim. Seek help when needed, focus on the medical evidence, and don’t let pride or fear keep you from pursuing what’s rightfully yours.

Disclaimer:
This article is based on personal opinions and observations. Individual experiences may vary.

The theme of this discussion is Can You Use GI Bill or VA Benefits as Income? An Expert Weighs In

Welcome to Veterans Daily with Tina and Gema—your trusted source for veteran-related financial education. Today, we have an important topic: which veterans’ benefits you cannot use as income when purchasing a home or making other financial decisions. To help us navigate this subject, we’re joined by David, a mortgage expert and the creator of VA Housing Education, a YouTube channel dedicated to educating veterans on leveraging their benefits effectively.

Meet Our Expert: David from VA Housing Education

Tina: David, thanks for joining us again. For those unfamiliar with you, can you introduce yourself?

David: Absolutely. My name is David, and I run VA Housing Education, a YouTube channel dedicated to helping veterans understand how to maximize their benefits. Whether you’re currently serving, a veteran, or even a surviving spouse, it’s crucial to know how these benefits work so you can make informed financial decisions and avoid being taken advantage of.

Can the GI Bill Be Used as Qualified Income?

Gema: Let’s get straight to the big question, David. Can a veteran use their GI Bill benefits as qualified income for a mortgage or a car loan?

David: That’s a great question, and the short answer is no. GI Bill benefits—whether Post-9/11 or Montgomery—cannot be counted as income for mortgage qualification. The main reason is that these are temporary benefits, typically lasting only 36 months. Lenders prefer stable, long-term income sources, and since GI Bill benefits can stop at any time—especially if a veteran drops out of school—they don’t meet that standard.

Tina: What about using GI Bill benefits as income for renting a home?

David: That’s another common question. While technically a landlord could consider it, the same issue applies: the benefits are temporary. Most landlords and property managers prefer tenants with stable employment income. This is why school-derived benefits are not considered reliable income sources.

Exceptions: When GI Bill Income Can Be Used

Gema: So, just to clarify, there’s no scenario where a veteran can use their GI Bill income for loan qualification?

David: There is one exception. If a veteran is on active duty and attending school full-time while receiving BAH (Basic Allowance for Housing), then that income may be counted. Since active-duty pay is stable, lenders may consider the total income, including the housing allowance, when evaluating mortgage eligibility.

Tina: That’s a great strategy—using active-duty benefits to buy a home while stationed somewhere for school. Speaking of home buying, let’s shift gears a bit.

Using VA Loans for Multi-Family Homes

Gema: We know that VA loans can be used for single-family homes, but can a veteran use a VA loan to purchase a multi-family home?

David: Absolutely! A veteran can use a VA loan to purchase a multi-family property (up to four units) as long as they occupy one of the units. This can be a fantastic way to build wealth—living in one unit while renting out the others can significantly reduce housing costs or even generate positive cash flow.

Tina: That’s a game-changer for a lot of veterans who don’t realize this is an option!

What About Vocational Rehab and Caregiver Support?

Gema: Let’s talk about other benefits, like Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) or Chapter 35 survivor benefits. Can those be used as income?

David: Unfortunately, no. VR&E stipends and Chapter 35 benefits are considered school benefits, just like the GI Bill, and are not classified as steady income.

Tina: What about VA caregiver benefits? Can those be counted?

David: Surprisingly, no. Even though VA caregiver benefits provide financial support, they are not considered earned income for loan qualification. This is another area where many veterans assume they have qualifying income when they actually don’t.

VA Disability Pay: The One Benefit You Can Use

Gema: Since we’ve covered what can’t be used, let’s talk about what can. VA disability compensation — can that be used as income?

David: Yes! VA disability compensation is non-taxable income and can be used to qualify for mortgages, car loans, and other financial commitments. In fact, disability pay is often looked upon favorably by lenders because it’s stable and consistent.

Tina: What about back pay? Say a veteran moves from 50% to 100% disability and gets a large lump sum of retroactive pay. Can that help them qualify?

David: While back pay itself isn’t considered recurring income, it can be used strategically—like paying off debts to improve debt-to-income ratios or making a down payment to lower monthly mortgage payments. I’ve seen veterans go from being unable to qualify for a loan to securing a home just by using their back pay wisely.

Planning Ahead: The Key to Homeownership

Gema: It sounds like veterans need to start planning early if they want to use their benefits effectively. Any final advice?

David: Absolutely. A successful home purchase starts with credit and budgeting. Many veterans don’t realize how much their car payments and credit card debt impact their ability to qualify for a mortgage. Planning 6 to 12 months in advance—by improving credit scores, paying off debts, and understanding income qualifications—can make a huge difference.

Tina: And if all else fails, they can put it all on double zero at the casino, right? (Laughs)

David: (Laughs) Please don’t! Smart financial planning is the way to go.

Final Thoughts & Disclaimer

Understanding which benefits count as income is crucial when planning for homeownership. While GI Bill benefits, VR&E stipends, and caregiver support cannot be used to qualify for loans, VA disability compensation can. If you’re planning to buy a home using VA benefits, start early and seek expert guidance.

Disclaimer: Some personal comments within this article are opinionated; is for informational purposes only, and should not be considered financial or legal advice. Veterans should consult with a certified financial advisor or mortgage specialist before making any financial decisions. Individual names within this article may have been changed to protect their privacy.