IRRRL, VA cash-out or leaving VA: choosing your refinance path
Entitlement after refinancing
At the fork
An IRRRL keeps your entitlement tied to the same home. A VA cash-out refinance also uses entitlement. Refinancing out of VA pays off the VA loan, after which VA may restore entitlement under its rules, which often require that the home be sold or that you use a one-time restoration if you keep it. Ask VA or your lender to confirm before relying on future entitlement.
Last reviewed against the primary sources listed below.
At a glance
| Path | Entitlement |
|---|---|
| IRRRL | Stays with the same home |
| VA cash-out | Used for the new VA loan |
| Out of VA | May be restored after payoff, under VA rules |
Choosing a path
Can I get my VA entitlement back if I refinance to conventional?
Possibly; VA can restore entitlement after the VA loan is paid off under its rules. Ask VA how it applies to you.