publications & resources

Publications

"THE U.S. MARINE CORPS RESERVE COME TO THE FORE"

This is the first of a two-part series to document the evolution of the Marine Corps Reserve by Col Walter Ford. To read this first part click here.

Resources

PTSD: National Center for PTSD

Need to talk to someone, having trouble sleeping at night, "flashbacks", feel lonely, need to talk to smeone? You are not alone! Select the title and you will begin taking that road to recover. Don't wait another minute, what are you waiting for? The National Center for PTSD is dedicated to research and education on trauma and PTSD. We work to assure that the latest research findings help those exposed to trauma. This service is not simply for our latest veterans, it is for EVERY VETERAN!

Veteran Administration Loans

A VA loan is an incredible benefit for veterans or active duty service members. Unfortunately, many people who are eligible to receive this benefit aren’t aware they qualify, and most of those who aren’t aware are found in the Reserve and National Guard.

Reservists and National Guard members are entitled to the same VA loan benefits as those in regular military service, with slight exception. It’s important to help these servicemen and women understand their eligibility requirements so that they too can take advantage of the benefits a VA mortgage has to offer.

In a nutshell, a VA loan is a mortgage issued by approved lenders that’s guaranteed by the federal government. It allows eligible service members and veterans to either refinance up to 100% of their home or buy a new home with no money down.

Members of the National Guard or Reserve may qualify for a VA loan if they meet one of the following qualifications:

Served six years in selected reserve and were either
- honorably discharged
- retired

Transferred to Standby Reserve, or an element of the Ready Reserve other than the Selected Reserve, after honorable service

Served in the Selected Reserve for more than six years
Served in active duty for more than 90 days during a wartime period
Discharged or released from active duty for a service-related disability

Once eligibility is determined, the Reservist or National Guard member must obtain their Certificate of Eligibility (COE). The COE can be obtained through their mortgage lender as long as they have proper proof of service. If necessary, VA Form 26-1880 can be submitted to the Atlanta Regional Loan Center online or by mail.

The main difference for Reservists and National Guard members seeking a VA loan can be found in the funding fee, or the cost associated with obtaining a VA loan that helps ensure that the loan continues to require no down payment and no monthly mortgage insurance.

Down Payment	First Time Use	Subsequent Use
None	2.4%	3.3%
5% or more (up to 10%)	1.75%	1.75%
10% or more	1.5%	1.5%

First Time Use	Subsequent Use
2.4%	3.3%

A VA loan is an incredible – and exclusive – benefit that eligible servicemen and women should take advantage of. They provide opportunities not offered with other loans, like the ability to refinance up to 100% of a home’s worth, no down payments on a home purchase, relaxed credit requirements, and more. If you or your spouse are in the Reserve or National Guard, and you’d like to know more about your options, contact a VA-approved lender, like Quicken Loans, to learn more.