The VA funding fee is a one-time charge on most VA-backed home loans, ranging from 0.5% to 3.3% of the loan amount, depending on factors like loan type, down payment, and prior VA loan use. It funds the VA loan program and reduces taxpayer burden. Some veterans, such as those with disability compensation or surviving spouses, are exempt. The fee can be paid upfront or rolled into the loan and is refundable if disability status is granted retroactively.