What Is Veterans United in Massachusetts?
Veterans United Home Loans is licensed in Massachusetts as Mortgage Research Center, LLC, doing business as Veterans United Home Loans, under Massachusetts Licensed Broker and Lender #MC1907. The company is headquartered in Columbia, Missouri, and does not maintain a physical branch office in Massachusetts. Massachusetts borrowers work with Veterans United loan officers remotely or online, with in-person service available through the company’s digital platform and phone consultations. Veterans United is the nation’s largest VA lender and is licensed in all 50 states.
Quick Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Benefit | VA home loans with $0 down, no PMI, and competitive rates |
| Eligibility | Veterans, active duty, Guard, Reserve, surviving spouses with COE |
| Application | Online, by phone, or through digital platform |
| Processing Time | Average 34 days to close (company-wide) |
| Official Agency | U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) |
| Required Forms | Certificate of Eligibility (COE), VA Form 26-1880 if needed |
| Massachusetts License | MC1907 (Broker and Lender) |
| Updated For | 2026 |
Veterans United Massachusetts Licensing and Branch Information
Veterans United does not operate a brick-and-mortar branch in Massachusetts. The company is licensed in the state as Mortgage Research Center, LLC, DBA Veterans United Home Loans, under Massachusetts Licensed Broker #MC1907 and Massachusetts Licensed Lender #MC1907. Massachusetts borrowers are served remotely by loan officers who are licensed to conduct business in the state. The company operates physical branches in approximately 17–18 states, but Massachusetts is not among them. For Massachusetts borrowers, the primary point of contact is the company’s national call center at (800) 884-5560 or the online application portal.
| Licensing Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Legal Entity | Mortgage Research Center, LLC |
| DBA | Veterans United Home Loans |
| Massachusetts Broker License | MC1907 |
| Massachusetts Lender License | MC1907 |
| Physical Branch in MA | None |
| National Phone | (800) 884-5560 |
| NMLS ID | 1907 |
Massachusetts VA Loan Limits for 2026
Massachusetts VA loan limits vary by county for 2026, with significant differences between the Boston metro area, the islands, and the western part of the state. Veterans with full entitlement have no VA loan limit and can borrow above the conforming limit with no down payment, subject to lender approval and appraisal. Partial entitlement borrowers are measured against the county conforming loan limit. For 2026, the baseline conforming loan limit in most Massachusetts counties is $832,750. Boston-area counties — including Suffolk, Norfolk, Middlesex, Essex, and Plymouth — have a limit of $962,550. Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket have the highest limit in the state at $1,249,125.
| County/Region | 2026 VA Loan Limit (Partial Entitlement) |
|---|---|
| Most Massachusetts counties | $832,750 |
| Boston metro (Suffolk, Norfolk, Middlesex, Essex, Plymouth) | $962,550 |
| Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket | $1,249,125 |
What This Means for Massachusetts Veterans
If you have full entitlement, you are not restricted by these limits. You can buy a home above $1.2 million on Martha’s Vineyard with zero down if you qualify for the loan and the property appraises for the purchase price. If you have partial entitlement — for example, because you have an existing VA loan — your entitlement is measured against the county limit. In high-cost Boston-area counties, the $962,550 limit provides substantial buying power.
Massachusetts VA Loan Benefits
A Massachusetts VA loan is a home loan guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and made by a private lender like Veterans United. Because the VA guarantees part of the loan, the lender can approve it with no down payment when the borrower has full entitlement and no monthly mortgage insurance. The same federal VA loan program applies in every state, but Massachusetts adds state-level tax benefits and housing programs that can significantly reduce a veteran’s long-term costs.
Key VA Loan Benefits for Massachusetts Borrowers
$0 down payment with full entitlement. No down payment is required for eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and qualifying surviving spouses.
No private mortgage insurance (PMI). Conventional loans typically require PMI when the down payment is less than 20%. VA loans never require it.
No VA minimum credit score. The VA does not set a minimum credit score, but most lenders including Veterans United require a score of at least 620.
Competitive interest rates. VA loan rates are typically lower than conventional loan rates.
No loan limit with full entitlement. Massachusetts buyers with full entitlement are not restricted by county conforming loan limits.
Seller can pay closing costs. The VA allows sellers to contribute to closing costs, which can reduce the buyer’s out-of-pocket expenses.
2026 VA Funding Fee Rates in Massachusetts
| Down Payment | First Use | Subsequent Use |
|---|---|---|
| Less than 5% | 2.15% | 3.30% |
| 5%–9.99% | 1.50% | 1.50% |
| 10% or more | 1.25% | 1.25% |
Veterans receiving VA disability compensation for a service-connected disability are exempt from the funding fee. Surviving spouses of veterans who died in service or from a service-connected disability are also exempt. Purple Heart recipients are exempt as well. The funding fee can be financed into the loan instead of paid at closing, though this increases the loan balance.
Massachusetts State Benefits for Veterans
Massachusetts offers a robust set of state-level benefits for veterans that complement the federal VA loan program. These programs are administered by the Executive Office of Veterans Services (EOVS), MassHousing, and local municipalities.
Clause 22 Property Tax Exemption
Veterans May Qualify for Extra Benefits
Check available financial assistance, healthcare programs and other opportunities that may apply to you.
Check EligibilityMassachusetts General Laws Chapter 59, Section 5, Clause 22 provides a property tax exemption for veterans with a service-connected disability of 10% or more. The base exemption amount is $400, though individual municipalities may increase this amount. In Boston, the exemption is $423 for Fiscal Year 2027. The exemption also applies to Purple Heart recipients, Gold Star mothers and fathers, and the spouses or surviving spouses (who have not remarried) of veterans entitled to the exemption under Clause 22.
| Clause 22 Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Who Qualifies | Veterans with 10%+ service-connected disability, Purple Heart recipients, Gold Star parents, qualifying spouses |
| Base Exemption | $400 (varies by municipality; Boston is $423) |
| Domicile Requirement | Legal resident of Massachusetts and domiciled in state at least 6 months prior to service |
| How to Apply | File with local assessor by December 15 (varies by municipality) |
Clause 22D: Full Exemption for Surviving Spouses
Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 59, Section 5, Clause 22D provides a full property tax exemption on the taxable valuation of real property for surviving spouses of soldiers, sailors, National Guard members, and veterans who died in service or from a service-connected disability. The surviving spouse must remain an owner and occupant of the domicile and must not remarry. This exemption has no income or home value limit.
Clause 22F: Paraplegic Veterans Exemption
Clause 22F provides a total property tax exemption for veterans who are paraplegic as a result of service-connected injury. This exemption applies to the full amount of the taxable valuation of the property.
MassHousing Home for the Brave Program
MassHousing’s Home for the Brave program offers affordable, low downpayment mortgage financing for veterans of the U.S. Armed Services. The program is administered by MassHousing, the state’s housing finance agency, and is available through approved community banks.
Program Features:
Up to 97% financing on single-family homes and condominiums
95% financing on 2-, 3-, and 4-family homes
MI Plus mortgage insurance, which covers principal and interest payments for up to six months in case of unemployment or deployment
Closing cost assistance available through MassHousing grants
Eligibility:
Veterans of the U.S. Armed Services
Active-duty military
Spouses of soldiers, sailors, or marines killed while on active duty
Must purchase a primary residence
Must have good credit
Total housing debt must be less than 41% and total monthly debt less than 45%
Two months’ reserves required for multi-family properties
First-time homebuyers must complete a homebuyer counseling course
How to Apply: Contact a participating MassHousing lender. MassHousing is located at One Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02108, and can be reached at 617-854-1000.
MassHousing $2,500 Closing Credit for Veterans
Members of the National Guard or Reserves, active-duty military, veterans, and Gold Star Families may be eligible for a $2,500 closing cost credit through MassHousing. This credit is available on MassHousing mortgage loans and can be combined with down payment assistance.
MassVets Benefit Estimator and Chapter 115
Massachusetts operates Chapter 115, a state-funded program that provides direct financial assistance to eligible Massachusetts veterans and their families who are facing financial hardship. Benefits may cover daily living expenses, medical and dental costs, rent and housing support, dependent support, homelessness prevention, and outpatient behavioral health services. In 2025, the Healey-Driscoll Administration launched the MassVets Benefit Estimator, an online tool that helps veterans determine their eligibility for monthly financial assistance through the Chapter 115 Safety Net Program. Veterans can access the estimator at vets.mass.gov.
Massachusetts Veterans’ Annuity
Massachusetts provides a $2,000 per year annuity to qualifying veterans. The annuity is available to veterans who meet specific service and residency requirements. Veterans should contact their local Veterans’ Service Officer (VSO) for eligibility details and application assistance.
Veterans United Massachusetts Customer Reviews
Veterans United maintains a company-wide customer satisfaction rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on thousands of reviews. On the company’s own review platform, 98.2% of reviewers would recommend Veterans United to friends and family. However, third-party review sites show a wider range of experiences, and some Massachusetts-specific feedback highlights both strengths and areas for improvement.
What Massachusetts Veterans Say
A Vietnam Era veteran who purchased a home in Wilmington, Massachusetts praised the experience: “I’m a Vietnam Era Veteran and I just purchased a beautiful home located in Wilmington, Massachusetts thanks to Veterans United, Matt Colgin and his awesome team.” Another Massachusetts reviewer noted the team was “amazing every step of the way. Very caring, very helpful, and most of all they answered any and all questions I had along the way.”
A Massachusetts-specific review on Veterans United’s own platform noted: “I think in general, the team may have some blind spots in markets where they don’t service consistently or frequently. Massachusetts has a low veterans population. All resolved quickly. There was some ‘back and forth’ over some MA specific issues.”
Common Complaints from Massachusetts Borrowers
Some Massachusetts borrowers have reported frustration with persistent marketing calls. One reviewer on SmartCustomer wrote: “The calls are relentless and they won’t take no for an answer.” Another noted issues with NIFA (Nebraska Investment Finance Authority) processing, though that complaint came from a Nebraska borrower. On ConsumerAffairs, a Massachusetts reviewer praised the experience: “We had an outstanding experience with our Veterans United mortgage loan team. They were flawless from start to finish — quick, professional, and always respectful.”
How Veterans United Compares in Massachusetts
| Factor | Veterans United | Massachusetts Local Lenders |
|---|---|---|
| Physical branch in MA | No | Varies |
| VA loan specialization | High (largest VA lender) | Varies |
| Massachusetts-specific knowledge | Limited by remote model | Local expertise |
| Customer satisfaction (company-wide) | 4.8/5 | Varies |
| Closing speed | Average 34 days | Varies |
| MassHousing participation | No | Yes (approved lenders) |
| NIFA/state program integration | No | Varies |
Massachusetts borrowers who want to combine a VA loan with MassHousing programs, the $2,500 closing credit, or other state-specific benefits may need to work with a lender that participates in those programs. Veterans United does not participate in MassHousing’s Home for the Brave or the $2,500 closing credit program. Veterans who prioritize state program integration may benefit from working with a Massachusetts-based lender that participates in MassHousing programs.
How to Apply for a VA Loan in Massachusetts Through Veterans United
The application process for a VA loan through Veterans United follows a standard sequence. Massachusetts borrowers complete the process online or by phone with a licensed loan officer.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Get pre-approved. Contact Veterans United at (800) 884-5560 or apply online. You will need your Certificate of Eligibility (COE), which you can obtain through VA.gov or your lender.
Gather required documents. You will need your DD-214, recent pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements, and a valid government-issued ID.
Submit your loan application. Your loan officer will review your financial profile and recommend the best VA loan option for your situation.
Get a VA appraisal. The VA requires an appraisal to determine the home’s fair market value. The appraiser will check for safety and structural issues.
Close on your home. Once the appraisal and underwriting are complete, you will sign closing documents. Veterans United’s average time to close is 34 days.
Required Documents for Massachusetts VA Loans
Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty)
Recent pay stubs covering the last 30 days
Two years of federal tax returns
Bank statements showing reserves
Valid government-issued photo ID
If applicable: VA disability award letter, Purple Heart documentation, or surviving spouse documentation
Required VA Forms
VA Form 26-1880: Request for a Certificate of Eligibility (if you do not already have one)
VA Form 26-6393: Loan Analysis
VA Form 26-1805: Notice to Veterans of Funding Fee
DD-214: Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty
Massachusetts VA Loan Closing Costs
Massachusetts VA loan closing costs typically range from 2% to 5% of the purchase price. In Boston, the average VA mortgage closing cost is approximately $7,473. These costs include appraisal fees, title examination and insurance, recording fees, prepaid escrows, and lender fees. The VA funding fee, if applicable, is a separate cost that can be financed into the loan.
| Cost Category | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Appraisal | $500–$800 |
| Title examination and insurance | $1,500–$2,500 |
| Recording fees | $200–$500 |
| Prepaid escrows (taxes, insurance) | $2,000–$4,000 |
| Lender fees | $1,000–$2,000 |
| VA funding fee (if not exempt) | 1.25%–3.30% of loan amount |
Massachusetts VA loans allow sellers to contribute to closing costs, which can reduce the buyer’s out-of-pocket expenses. The VA also restricts certain closing costs that lenders can charge veterans.
Common Mistakes Massachusetts Veterans Make
Not exploring MassHousing programs. The Home for the Brave program and the $2,500 closing credit can reduce costs, but Veterans United does not participate in these programs. Veterans who want to use state benefits may need a MassHousing-approved lender.
Filing for Clause 22 exemption after the deadline. Property tax exemption applications generally must be filed with the local assessor by December 15, though deadlines vary by municipality. Missing the deadline means losing the exemption for that tax year.
Assuming the funding fee is always required. Veterans receiving VA disability compensation, Purple Heart recipients, and qualifying surviving spouses are exempt from the VA funding fee. Make sure your lender applies the exemption.
Not budgeting for closing costs. Even with $0 down, Massachusetts VA loans carry closing costs that typically run 2%–5% of the purchase price. Buyers should plan for these expenses.
Using a lender unfamiliar with Massachusetts. Massachusetts has unique property tax rules, insurance considerations, and state-specific housing programs. Local lenders may be better positioned to navigate these issues.
Massachusetts VA Loan Assumption Rules
VA loans originated on or after March 1, 1988, are assumable with lender approval. In Massachusetts, VA loan assumptions are processed by the loan servicer, not the VA. The timeline depends on the servicer, but most assumptions take 45 to 90 days from application to closing.
The VA funding fee on an assumption is 0.5% of the remaining loan balance, due within 15 days. The servicer may also charge an assumption processing fee of up to $300. The veteran seller’s entitlement remains tied to the loan until it is paid in full unless the assumer is an eligible veteran who substitutes their entitlement.
| Assumption Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Funding Fee | 0.5% of assumed balance |
| Processing Fee | Up to $300 |
| Servicer Approval | Required |
| Release of Liability | Must be obtained in writing |
| Entitlement Restoration | Only through substitution of entitlement |
| Typical Timeline | 45–90 days |
Latest Rule Changes for 2026
The 2026 conforming loan limit for VA loans in Massachusetts increased to $832,750 in most counties, $962,550 in Boston-area counties, and $1,249,125 on Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. Veterans with full entitlement are not restricted by these limits.
The VA funding fee schedule remains unchanged for 2026: 2.15% for first use with less than 5% down, 3.30% for subsequent use, 1.50% with 5%–9.99% down, and 1.25% with 10% or more down. Veterans receiving disability compensation continue to be exempt.
Pending Massachusetts legislation would update disabled veterans’ tax exemption totals. The bill, HD.3212, would increase the exemption amounts under Clause 22 to reflect inflation and current housing costs. The bill is under consideration in the Massachusetts Legislature.
Common Questions
Does Veterans United have a branch office in Massachusetts?
No. Veterans United does not operate a physical branch in Massachusetts. The company is licensed in the state under Mortgage Research Center, LLC, and serves Massachusetts borrowers remotely through its online platform and phone consultations. The national phone number is (800) 884-5560.
What is the VA loan limit in Massachusetts for 2026?
The 2026 VA loan limit is $832,750 in most Massachusetts counties, $962,550 in Boston-area counties including Suffolk, Norfolk, Middlesex, Essex, and Plymouth, and $1,249,125 on Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. Veterans with full entitlement have no VA loan limit.
Does Veterans United participate in MassHousing programs?
No. Veterans United does not participate in MassHousing’s Home for the Brave program or the $2,500 closing credit for veterans. Veterans who want to use these state programs should work with a MassHousing-approved lender.
What is the Massachusetts Clause 22 tax exemption?
Clause 22 is a Massachusetts property tax exemption for veterans with a service-connected disability of 10% or more. The base exemption is $400, and individual municipalities may increase this amount. Boston’s exemption is $423 for Fiscal Year 2027.
Are VA loans assumable in Massachusetts?
Yes. VA loans originated on or after March 1, 1988, are assumable with servicer approval. The VA funding fee on an assumption is 0.5% of the remaining loan balance. The veteran seller’s entitlement remains tied to the loan until it is paid in full unless a substitution of entitlement occurs.
What credit score does Veterans United require for a VA loan in Massachusetts?
Veterans United requires a minimum credit score of 620 for VA loans. The VA itself does not set a minimum credit score, but most lenders apply their own overlays. Some Massachusetts lenders accept scores as low as 580 for VA loans.
Can I use a VA loan to buy a multi-family home in Massachusetts?
Yes. VA loans can be used to purchase multi-family properties with up to four units, provided the borrower occupies one unit as their primary residence. The MassHousing Home for the Brave program offers 95% financing on 2-, 3-, and 4-family homes.
What is the VA funding fee in Massachusetts for 2026?
The funding fee is 2.15% for first use with less than 5% down, 3.30% for subsequent use, 1.50% with 5%–9.99% down, and 1.25% with 10% or more down. Veterans receiving disability compensation, Purple Heart recipients, and qualifying surviving spouses are exempt.
How long does it take to close a VA loan in Massachusetts?
Veterans United’s average time to close is 34 days company-wide. Massachusetts-specific closings may take slightly longer depending on the lender, property type, and local market conditions. VA loan assumptions typically take 45 to 90 days.
What Massachusetts state benefits are available for veterans?
Massachusetts offers the Clause 22 property tax exemption, Clause 22D full exemption for surviving spouses, MassHousing Home for the Brave mortgage program, a $2,500 closing credit for veterans, Chapter 115 financial assistance, and a $2,000 annual annuity for qualifying veterans.
Key Takeaways
Veterans United is licensed in Massachusetts under MC1907 but does not have a physical branch in the state; all service is provided remotely.
The 2026 VA loan limit is $832,750 in most Massachusetts counties, $962,550 in Boston-area counties, and $1,249,125 on Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket.
Veterans with full entitlement have no VA loan limit in Massachusetts and can buy above $1.2 million with zero down if qualified.
Massachusetts Clause 22 provides a $400 property tax exemption for veterans with a 10%+ service-connected disability, with higher amounts in some municipalities.
MassHousing’s Home for the Brave program offers up to 97% financing and MI Plus job-loss protection for veterans.
The MassHousing $2,500 closing credit is available for veterans, active-duty military, Guard, Reserve, and Gold Star Families.
Veterans United does not participate in MassHousing programs; veterans who want state benefits should work with a MassHousing-approved lender.
The 2026 VA funding fee is 2.15% for first use with less than 5% down, 3.30% for subsequent use; disabled veterans are exempt.
Massachusetts VA loan closing costs typically range from 2% to 5% of the purchase price, with Boston averaging $7,473.
Chapter 115 provides direct financial assistance for Massachusetts veterans facing hardship, with the MassVets Benefit Estimator available at vets.mass.gov.
Official Resources
Veterans United Home Loans: veteransunited.com | (800) 884-5560 | NMLS #1907
VA Home Loans: VA.gov — Housing Assistance
VA Loan Limits: VA.gov — Loan Limits
Massachusetts Executive Office of Veterans Services: mass.gov/orgs/executive-office-of-veterans-services
MassVets Benefit Estimator: vets.mass.gov
MassHousing Home for the Brave: mass.gov — A Home for the Brave
MassHousing Homebuyer Programs: masshousing.com/buy-a-home/programs
Massachusetts Clause 22 Tax Exemption: mass.gov — M.G.L. c.59 § 5
Massachusetts Department of Revenue: mass.gov/orgs/department-of-revenue
🇺🇸 IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER – Veterans Benefits Information
This site provides general information about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits for educational and informational purposes only.
- Not Official: We are NOT affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), or any other government agency.
- No Legal/Financial Advice: The content on this website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or medical advice. VA benefits rules change frequently – always consult with an accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO) or a qualified professional for your specific situation.
- Official Sources: For official, binding information and to apply for benefits, always visit official .gov websites: VA.gov, Benefits.VA.gov, or SSA.gov.
- No Data Collection: This site does not collect, store, or process any personal information. It does not have login forms, contact forms, or any system to capture user data. We never ask for your Social Security Number, bank details, or any personal information.
- 🚨 Scam Alert: The VA and other government agencies never charge fees for benefit applications. If anyone asks for money to "process" your VA claim, it is a scam. Report it to the VA Office of Inspector General at VA.gov/OIG.
- Advertising: This site uses third-party advertising (Adsterra) to cover operational costs. We do not endorse or guarantee any products or services advertised.
📌 Information provided as of June 2026. Always verify current eligibility and rules with official .gov sources.
This site is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or any government agency. All information is for educational purposes only. Please visit VA.gov for official information.
