Updated August 2026. These are the questions Kentucky veterans and active-duty service members ask most about VA home loans. Short, current answers — no outdated loan-limit math.

Is there a maximum VA loan amount in Kentucky?

If you have full entitlement (you’ve never used your VA benefit, or you’ve paid off a prior VA loan and had entitlement restored), the VA does not set a loan limit. Your maximum loan is determined by what the lender approves you for based on income, credit, and the appraised value of the home — not by a VA cap.

Loan limits only come into play if you have partial entitlement — for example, an active VA loan on another home or a prior VA loan that ended in foreclosure. In that case the conforming loan limit applies ($832,750 for all Kentucky counties in 2026), and borrowing above your remaining entitlement may require a down payment. See the official VA loan limit guidance.

How much of the loan does the VA guarantee?

The VA guarantees up to 25% of the loan amount for lenders. That guaranty is why VA lenders can offer $0 down with no monthly mortgage insurance. The guaranty protects the lender — the borrower is still responsible for repaying the loan.

Do I need a down payment?

No — with full entitlement you can finance 100% of the purchase price as long as it doesn’t exceed the appraised value. Many Kentucky veterans do bring some money to closing for prepaid taxes, insurance, and closing costs, though seller concessions (up to 4%) and down payment assistance can cover much of that. See our VA closing costs guide.

What credit score do I need for a Kentucky VA loan?

The VA itself does not set a minimum credit score — individual lenders do. Many Kentucky lenders look for scores around 580–620, and manual underwriting may be possible with credit issues. Full details in our Kentucky VA credit score guide.

How much is the VA funding fee in 2026?

For purchase loans: 2.15% with less than 5% down on first use (3.3% for subsequent use), dropping to 1.5% with 5–9.99% down and 1.25% with 10% or more down. Veterans receiving VA disability compensation, eligible surviving spouses, and active-duty Purple Heart recipients are exempt. Current schedule: VA funding fee and closing costs.

Who is eligible for a VA loan?

  • Veterans who meet minimum active-duty service requirements (generally 90 days during wartime or 181 days during peacetime)
  • Active-duty service members with at least 90 continuous days of service
  • National Guard and Reserve members with 6 years of service — or 90 days of active service under qualifying orders (Kentucky Guard eligibility details)
  • Surviving spouses of veterans who died in service or from a service-connected disability (and who have not remarried, with limited exceptions)

How do I get my Certificate of Eligibility (COE)?

Three ways: (1) I can usually pull it electronically in minutes through the lender portal when you apply; (2) request it yourself at VA.gov; or (3) mail VA Form 26-1880. Most Kentucky borrowers never have to touch the paperwork — we handle it during pre-approval.

Does my VA entitlement expire?

No. VA home loan entitlement does not expire. Veterans from any service era who meet the eligibility requirements can still use the benefit today, even decades after separation.

Can I use my VA loan benefit more than once?

Yes. When you sell a home and pay off the VA loan, you can have your entitlement fully restored and start over. You can also have two VA loans at the same time in some situations (for example, a PCS move) using remaining entitlement. The funding fee is higher on subsequent use (3.3% with less than 5% down) unless you’re exempt.

Does the VA make loans directly?

Generally no — VA loans are made by private lenders and guaranteed by the VA. Direct VA lending exists only in narrow cases, such as the Native American Direct Loan program for homes on federal trust land.

Can I combine a VA loan with down payment assistance in Kentucky?

Often yes. The Kentucky Housing Corporation (KHC) offers VA first mortgages that can be paired with its Down Payment Assistance program — even on a $0-down VA loan, assistance can help with closing costs and prepaids. Ask me whether the KHC route or a straight VA loan with seller concessions is the better fit for your situation.

Have a question that isn’t covered here?

Start with the full Kentucky VA Loan Requirements guide, or reach out directly — there’s no cost or obligation to ask.

Joel Lobb, Senior Loan Officer — EVO Mortgage
911 Barret Ave., Louisville, KY 40204
Text or call: 502-905-3708 | Email: kentuckyloan@gmail.com
NMLS #57916 | Company NMLS #1738461 | Equal Housing Lender

This site is not affiliated with or acting on behalf of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Information is for educational purposes and is not a commitment to lend. Guidelines can change; loan approval is subject to underwriting and program requirements.