VA Loans in California

California has the largest veteran population in the nation, along with a state home loan program that has been serving veterans for more than a century. The federal VA loan benefit is the same in every state: eligible buyers can buy with no down payment and competitive rates.

California benefits for veterans

Property tax relief for veterans

The Disabled Veterans' Exemption reduces the taxable value of the home of a veteran who is rated totally disabled by the VA, is paid at the total disability rate because they can't work, is blind in both eyes, or has lost the use of two or more limbs.

There is a basic version of the exemption and a larger version for households under an annual income limit. The income-based version has to be renewed each year.

An unmarried surviving spouse may claim the exemption in certain cases, including when the veteran died from a service-connected injury or illness.

How to apply: Claims are filed with the assessor's office in the county where the home is located.

Other housing-related benefits

CalVet Home Loans is a state-run home financing program for veterans buying a home in California. It offers its own loans, separate from lenders' VA loans.
California also has a separate, more limited Veterans' Exemption for veterans who don't qualify for the disabled veterans' version.

VA loan basics

The essentials that apply in California and every other state.

VA Loan Requirements & EligibilityThe benefit is earned through service. You'll need a Certificate of Eligibility, a home you'll live in, and a loan that fits your budget.Read more VA Loan BenefitsBuy with no down payment and competitive rates, with no prepayment penalty and a benefit you can use again.Read more VA Loan Costs & FeesThe main VA-specific cost is a one-time funding fee. Many borrowers are exempt, and it can often be rolled into the loan.Read more Types of VA LoansUse the benefit to buy a home, lower the rate on a current VA loan, or turn home equity into cash.Read more

Read the full VA loan guide · Choose a different state

Talk to a loan officer

Questions about VA loans in California?

A Fidelity loan officer can talk through your eligibility and options one-on-one.

This page is for informational purposes only and is not a commitment to lend or an offer of credit. Program availability, terms and eligibility vary and are subject to change. Fidelity Funding Bancorp is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or any government agency. Chu & Associates, Inc. DBA Fidelity Funding Bancorp. NMLS ID# 1076900. All loans are subject to credit approval, underwriting guidelines and property eligibility. Not available in all states.