If you’ve fallen behind on your mortgage because of a temporary hardship, you’re not alone. Medical issues, job changes, or unexpected life events can make it difficult to keep up with payments, even if you’ve always paid on time.
The VA Partial Claim Program gives eligible veterans another option to get back on track without immediately paying the full past-due balance or refinancing their loan.
What is the VA Partial Claim Program?
The program allows your mortgage servicer to move your missed payments into a separate, interest-free subordinate lien.
Instead of paying the past-due amount today, that balance is repaid when you sell the home, refinance the mortgage, or pay off the loan.
The goal is simple: help eligible veterans recover from a temporary hardship while keeping their existing mortgage in place.
Who may qualify?
While eligibility is determined by your loan servicer and the VA, the program is generally intended for veterans who:
Have a VA-guaranteed home loan
Experienced a temporary financial hardship
Are behind on their mortgage payments
Can resume making their regular monthly payment after assistance
Every situation is different, so your servicer will review your circumstances before determining eligibility.
Why this matters
Before this program, many homeowners had fewer options for resolving mortgage delinquency. The Partial Claim Program provides another path that may help borrowers avoid more costly alternatives while remaining in their home.
For many veterans, it can provide valuable breathing room after recovering from an unexpected financial setback.
What should you do?
If you’re currently in forbearance or have fallen behind on your mortgage payments, contact your loan servicer as soon as possible. Ask whether the VA Partial Claim Program is available for your loan and what documentation may be required.
The sooner you begin the conversation, the more options you’re likely to have.
Final thoughts
Every veteran’s situation is unique. The VA Partial Claim Program won’t be the right solution for everyone, but it may provide meaningful relief for borrowers who experienced a temporary hardship and are ready to move forward.
Understanding your options early can make a significant difference. If you have questions about how the program works or how it could affect future home financing, speaking with a knowledgeable mortgage professional can help you make an informed decision.
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