VA IRRRL in Michigan: How to Refinance Your VA Loan the Easy Way

September 5, 2025 / jpalmortgage /

VA IRRRL in Michigan: How to Refinance Your VA Loan the Easy Way

If you’re a veteran or active-duty service member in Michigan with a VA home loan, you may have heard about the VA Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan (IRRRL). Also called a “VA Streamline Refinance,” the IRRRL makes it simple and affordable to lower your mortgage interest rate, reduce your monthly payment, or switch from an adjustable-rate to a fixed-rate loan.

At JPAL Mortgage, we help Michigan veterans with this powerful refinance option. Here’s everything you need to know.

What Is a VA IRRRL?

The VA IRRRL is a refinance program designed specifically for veterans who already have a VA loan. Its purpose is to make refinancing fast, simple, and low cost. Unlike other refinances, there’s:

  • No appraisal required in most cases, but not all

  • No income verification required

  • No out-of-pocket costs (fees are typically rolled into the new loan)

  • No need to re-use your VA entitlement

That’s why it’s called a “Streamline Refinance” — it’s quick and straightforward.

Why Michigan Veterans Choose a VA IRRRL

Here are the most common reasons we see veterans choose an IRRRL in Michigan:

  • Lower monthly payment: If rates have dropped since you got your VA loan, you could save big. Check out our awesome refinance calculator to see how much could potentially save!

  • Switch to a fixed rate: If you’re in an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM), refinancing to a fixed rate gives peace of mind.

  • Save money on interest: Over the life of your loan, a lower rate can save you thousands.

  • Minimal paperwork: Unlike other refinance programs, the IRRRL is designed to be fast and hassle-free.

Who Is Eligible for a VA IRRRL?

To qualify, you must:

  • Already have a VA-backed mortgage

  • Be current on your payments (no more than one late payment in the past 12 months)

  • Use the IRRRL to refinance into another VA loan

You don’t need to occupy the home — as long as you certify that you once lived there. This is a huge advantage for Michigan veterans who bought their home with a VA loan but have since moved.

How Much Does a VA IRRRL Cost?

One of the best parts of the IRRRL is that it’s low cost:

  • The VA funding fee depends on a few factors, but we can help determine it for you (and waived entirely in certain cases).

  • Most closing costs are rolled into the new loan.

  • You might not need to bring money to closing.

How Long Does a VA IRRRL Take in Michigan?

Thanks to our partnership with lenders like United Wholesale Mortgage (UWM), JPAL Mortgage can often close VA IRRRL refinances in just a few weeks — much faster than the industry average.

Do I Need an Appraisal for a VA IRRRL in Michigan?

One of the biggest advantages of the VA IRRRL (Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan) is that most of the time, an appraisal isn’t required. This makes the process faster and more affordable for veterans throughout Michigan.

In some cases, an appraisal may be needed — for example, if you’re taking cash out or making certain changes to your loan terms. But at JPAL Mortgage, we’ve got you covered: we reimburse the cost of a VA appraisal up to $600 for every veteran we serve.

That means even if an appraisal is needed, you won’t have to worry about it eating into your savings.

Why Veterans in Grand Rapids and Beyond Trust JPAL Mortgage for Their VA Refinance

We’re proud to serve those who’ve served. As a local mortgage broker in Grand Rapids, JPAL Mortgage partners with top VA lenders to provide fast closings, competitive rates, and personal service. Whether you’re refinancing through the VA IRRRL or purchasing a new home, we’re here to help every step of the way.

Plus, as a special commitment to veterans, we reimburse up to $600 of appraisal costs. That means you save money from day one.

Whether you’re in Grand Rapids, Holland, or anywhere across Michigan, we’ll make your VA IRRRL smooth, simple, and stress-free.

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If not, that’s Ok! Here’s some more information to help answer additional questions:

VA IRRRL: Michigan VA Refinance — Frequently Asked Questions

1. What exactly is a VA IRRRL refinance?

A VA Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan (IRRRL) is a special program designed just for veterans and active service members. It allows you to lower your interest rate or move from an adjustable to a fixed rate with less paperwork and typically no appraisal. At JPAL Mortgage, we make this process fast and stress-free so you can start saving sooner.

2. Do I need a new appraisal to refinance with a VA loan?

In many cases, no — one of the best parts of the VA IRRRL program is that you usually don’t need a new appraisal. That saves you time, money, and hassle. And if an appraisal does end up being required, JPAL Mortgage will reimburse you up to $600 to cover the cost.

3. How much will a VA refinance cost me?

Every refinance has some costs (closing fees, title updates, etc.), but VA refinances are usually much lower than traditional loans. At JPAL Mortgage, we’ll walk you through every number up front so there are no surprises, and we even help cover your appraisal. Our goal is to make refinancing affordable and worth it for your budget.

4. Can I skip a mortgage payment when I refinance with a VA loan?

Not exactly. You don’t get to skip a payment, but the timing of your refinance may give you a short break before your new payment is due. We’ll explain how this works during your refinance so you know exactly what to expect.

5. How long does it take to close a VA refinance?

Every situation is different, but most of our VA refinances close in 30 days or less. Because we work with lenders like United Wholesale Mortgage (UWM) — one of the fastest lenders in the country — we’re often able to close even quicker than that.

6. Can I take cash out with a VA refinance?

Yes — but that’s a different program than the IRRRL. A VA Cash-Out Refinance lets you use your home equity for things like paying off debt, making home improvements, or other needs. JPAL Mortgage can help you explore both options to see what makes the most sense for your goals.

7. Can the IRRRL increase my payments?

Yes, especially if you’re moving from an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) or shortening your term. That’s allowed under VA rules—but lenders must still ensure you can afford the new payment.

The Bottom Line

If you’re a veteran or service member in Michigan, the VA IRRRL could be the easiest way to lower your rate and save money. With no appraisal in most cases, little paperwork, and fast closings, it’s one of the most powerful refinance tools available.

Ready to see how much you could save with a VA IRRRL?

Contact us at: hello@jpalmortgage.com or 616-465-5725

JPAL Mortgage is proudly based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where its two owners were born and raised! We love our veterans and truly appreciate your service! It’s a passion of ours to make the mortgage process smooth and stress-free here in Michigan! Learn more about the team at JPAL

JPAL Mortgage – Your best friend in home finance.

All loans require complete underwriting approval, including satisfactory appraisal and clear title work. Interest rates and closing costs are subject to change. NMLS ID #2189752 | Equal Housing Opportunity