Published On: July 20, 2026

Guaranty Bank Partners with Greenlight to Help Parents Raise Financially Smart Kids and Teens

Guaranty Bank is now partnering with Greenlight® Financial Technology, Inc. (“Greenlight”) to better serve families and help the next generation build healthy financial futures. Guaranty Bank customers will have free† access to Greenlight’s award-winning family finance app, available through the Greenlight for Banks program.

Research shows that 91% of kids and teens believe they need financial knowledge and skills to achieve their life goals, and 94% of parents agree.* Still, only 35 states require a personal finance course for students, and teens score an average of 64% on the National Financial Literacy Test, showing a clear gap in financial education that is accessible and effective. Parents also rank personal finance as the #1 most difficult life skill to teach their children with 81% saying they wish they had more financial education tools and resources.**

Greenlight offers a debit card and app that teaches kids and teens how to earn, save, give and spend wisely, all with parental supervision. Using the Greenlight app, parents can quickly send money, automate allowance payments, manage chores, set flexible spending controls, get real-time notifications of all transactions, and more. Kids get hands-on money management experience, along with access to Greenlight Level Up™, an in-app financial literacy game with a best-in-class curriculum, educational challenges, and rewards.

“At Guaranty Bank, we believe financial education should start early and be accessible. Our partnership with Greenlight gives parents and kids the tools they need to learn, practice, and grow together, right from their everyday banking experience,” said Hue Townsend, CEO of Guaranty Bank.

Guaranty Bank customers can receive a free† Greenlight subscription by registering through gbtonline.com/greenlight/ and adding their Guaranty Bank account as a funding source.

About Guaranty Bank:

Founded in 1943, Guaranty Bank is a privately held financial institution serving individuals, businesses, and communities across Mississippi and Tennessee. With 38 locations and a full range of consumer, commercial, mortgage, and wealth services, Guaranty Bank combines the strength of a modern financial partner with the personal relationships of a community bank. As a certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), the bank is deeply committed to expanding access to financial services and supporting economic growth in the communities it serves. For more information about Guaranty Bank, please visit gbtonline.com or follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram

†Guaranty Bank customers are eligible for the Greenlight SELECT plan at no cost when they connect their Guaranty Bank account as the Greenlight funding source for the entirety of the promotion. Subject to minimum balance requirements and identity verification. Upgrades will result in additional fees. Upon termination of promotion, members will be responsible for associated monthly fees. See terms for details. Offer ends 6/16/2029. Offer subject to change and partner participation.

*Survey insights were collected by Greenlight through a Researchscape survey fielded between March 22 and March 24, 2024, among 2,310 respondents in the U.S., split between kids and teens ages 10-19 and parents of 10-19 year olds.

**Survey insights were collected by Greenlight through a Researchscape survey fielded between February 9-12, 2023, among 1,034 U.S. respondents, all of whom were working parents of 8-18 year olds.

Published On: July 16, 2026

Mississippi Homeowner Receives $15,000 Grant to Replace Roof Through Guaranty Bank & FHLB Dallas  

In the small town of Indianola, Mississippi, a story of hope and kindness quietly unfolded reminding us of the power of community support. Demetrius Perryman, a disabled individual living on a fixed disability income, was facing a daunting challenge. Her roof was leaking and deteriorating, threatening the safety and comfort of her family.  

For Demetrius, the leaking roof was more than just an inconvenience. It was a source of constant worry, especially during rainy days when water seeped into her home causing damage that could escalate into costly repairs. To make matters worse, insurance coverage was not available for the roof replacement, determining the roof as outdated and beyond repair assistance. With limited financial resources, the situation felt overwhelming.  

A Ray of Hope from Guaranty Bank and The Federal Home Loan Bank Dallas 

A beacon of hope arrived when a family member told Demetrius to reach out to Guaranty Bank for assistance. Working in partnership with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas through its FORTIFIED Fund, Guaranty Bank helped guide her through the application process. Demetrius was approved for a FORTIFIED Roof grant that made it possible to replace her damaged roof, stop the leaks, and prevent further deterioration of her home.  

The grant did more than fix a roof, it restored peace of mind. For Demetrius, it meant a safer, more comfortable home where her family could thrive without the constant fear of water damage. It meant stability in a time of uncertainty and a reminder that kindness and support from a local community bank truly matter.  

In her own words, Demetrius sent a letter to Guaranty Bank that expressed deep gratitude:  

“Your support has made a tangible difference in our lives, providing stability and peace of mind when we needed it most. We are deeply grateful for this opportunity and the kindness extended to our family. Thank you once again for your generosity and support. Your assistance has made a lasting impact on my family’s safety and well-being.” 

What is the Federal Home Loan Bank FORTIFIED Fund?  

  • A grant program administered by the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas, covering Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, and Texas. 
  • Helps income-qualified homeowners get a FORTIFIED Roof which is built to withstand hurricanes, high winds, hail, and severe thunderstorms. 
  • $10 million was allocated to the fund in 2026. 
  • Funds are available on a first-come, first-served basis beginning with $5 million in January and then $5 million in July until funds are exhausted.  
  • A FORTIFIED Roof can double a roof’s uplift strength, reduce water intrusion by up to 95%, and increase home value by an average of 7%.  
  • Homeowners can also receive meaningful home insurance savings by receiving a FORTIFIED Roof Certificate upon completion.  

How To Apply for the Federal Home Loan Bank FORTIFIED Fund and Eligibility Criteria 

  • Applications must be submitted by an FHLB Dallas member financial institution like Guaranty Bank. 
  • Eligible households may receive up to $17,000 toward replacing a roof on an existing home.
  • Households must have and show proof of income at or below 120% of the area median income.  
  • The home must be an owner-occupied primary residence. 
  • Roof replacements must pass pre-evaluation and be installed by a certified FORTIFIED contractor.  
  • Grant approval, amount, and timing are subject to FHLB Dallas program requirement, documentation, certified contractor/evaluator requirements and availability of funds.

 About Guaranty Bank:

Founded in 1943, Guaranty Bank is a privately held financial institution serving individuals, businesses, and communities across Mississippi and Tennessee. With 38 locations and a full range of consumer, commercial, mortgage, and wealth services, Guaranty Bank combines the strength of a modern financial partner with the personal relationships of a community bank. As a certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), the bank is deeply committed to expanding access to financial services and supporting economic growth in the communities it serves. For more information about Guaranty Bank, please visit gbtonline.com or follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.  

About Federal Home Loan Bank Dallas:

The Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas (FHLB Dallas) is a part of the Federal Home Loan Bank System, which consists of 11 district Federal Home Loan Banks created in 1932 to provide capital for mortgage funding and support for community investment. The Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas (FHLB Dallas), with total assets of 97.1 billion as of March 30, 2026, is a member-owned cooperative that supports housing and community development by providing competitively priced loans and other credit products to approximately 780 members and associated institutions in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico and Texas. For more information visit FHLB Dallas Home.

Published On: July 15, 2026

Federal Student Loan Limits Are Changing: Why We Partnered with College Ave to Help Prepare Students

For many students and families, paying for college requires planning, savings, scholarships, grants, federal aid, and sometimes private financing. Now, upcoming federal student loan changes are making that planning conversation even more important, especially for graduate students, professional students, and parents who have historically relied on federal PLUS loans to help cover the full cost of attendance.

What’s Changing in Federal Student Loan Borrowing

Beginning July 1, 2026, several federal student loan rules are scheduled to change under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The Department of Education has noted that the changes affect loan limits and repayment options for borrowers and will continue to provide implementation guidance. 

  • Graduate student borrowing is expected to be limited to $20,500 per year, with a $100,000 aggregate cap for the degree.
  • Professional student borrowing is expected to be limited to $50,000 per year, with a $200,000 aggregate cap for the degree.
  • Parent PLUS borrowing is expected to be capped at $20,000 per year and $65,000 total per student.
  • Graduate PLUS loans are expected to be eliminated for new borrowers, changing how many students fund advanced degrees.

Why Federal Student Loan Limits Matter for Students and Families

These changes do not eliminate the need for education financing; they change the order and urgency of the conversation. Families may need to compare school costs earlier, understand borrowing limits sooner, and identify responsible ways to close any remaining funding gaps after scholarships, grants, savings, and federal student aid have been considered. 

For undergraduate families, the Parent PLUS cap may affect households that are expected to use federal parent borrowing to cover costs above the student’s direct federal loan eligibility. For graduate and professional students, the change may be even more significant because many programs have tuition and living expenses that exceed the new annual and aggregate limits. 

Why We Partnered with College Ave

Guaranty Bank chose to partner with College Ave because individuals need clear, flexible options at a time when education financing is becoming more complex. College Ave focuses on private student loans for undergraduate students, graduate students, professional degree students, and parents, with an online application process, no origination fees, fixed and variable rate options, and repayment choices designed to fit different budgets. 

Just as important, College Ave positions private student loans as a potential way to fill a financing gap after students and families have explored scholarships, grants, savings, and federal student aid. That approach aligns with how we believe education financing should be discussed, starting with the lowest-cost and individually tailored options, then evaluating private financing only when it makes sense for the borrower’s broader financial plan. All private student loans are subject to credit approval, underwriting requirements, and program eligibility criteria.

What Families Should Do to Start the Student Loan Application Process

  • File the FAFSA and review all federal aid eligibility first. 
  • Ask the school’s financial aid office how the new federal loan limits may apply to the student’s program and enrollment timeline. 
  • Compare the total cost of attendance, not just tuition, including housing, books, fees, transportation, and required equipment. 
  • Estimate the funding gap after scholarships, grants, savings, income, and federal loans. 
  • If a gap remains, compare private loan options carefully, including rate type, repayment term, monthly payment, cosigner requirements, fees, and total cost over time. 

How to Learn More About College Ave

As federal loan rules evolve, our goal is to help students and families make informed, confident decisions. Partnering with College Ave gives us another way to support those conversations with tools and financing options that may help bridge the gap when federal aid, savings, and scholarships are not enough.  This is a pivotal time for proactive planning. If college, graduate school, or professional school is on the horizon, it is important to learn more about the new federal limits. Visit our College Avenue information page and explore the full range of responsible funding options available to you.

*Guaranty Bank & Trust may receive a referral fee if you click on this link and obtain a student loan from College Ave.

Published On: July 6, 2026

More Fun, Less Spending: A Parent’s Guide to Saving Money This Summer

Summer is all about sunshine, family time, and making memories, but all those activities can add up fast. The good news? You don’t have to sacrifice fun to stay on budget. With a little planning and creativity, your family can enjoy a memorable summer without overspending.

Here are some practical (and fun!) summer budgeting tips:

Embrace Free Budget Friendly Family Activities

Some of the best summer memories don’t cost a thing.

  • Visit local parks, splash pads, or nature trails
  • Attend free community events, concerts, or festivals
  • Have a family movie night in the backyard
  • Explore your local library and their summer activity schedules

Pack Snacks & Meals

Food is one of the biggest hidden costs during summer outings.

Instead of eating out every time:

  • Pack a cooler with drinks, sandwiches, and snacks
  • Plan picnics at parks or beaches to elevate the setting
  • Let your kids help prepare and plan meals

Not only will you save money, but you’ll also avoid long lines and last-minute splurges.

Set a Summer Spending Budget

Giving your summer spending a clear limit helps you stay in control.

Break it down and stay committed to:

  • Entertainment
  • Food & Dining
  • Travel

Easily track your spending with our online banking application. After logging into your account, navigate to the Financial Tools section on your home screen. You can link external accounts and credit cards within the Financial Tools section to view spending across institutions in one place. Please review our Privacy Policy for details on how your information is used and shared when you connect external accounts. You can also assign spending categories and set specific budgets for areas like entertainment and travel, helping you stay accountable to your summer budgeting goals.

Give Your Kids Their Own Budget

Summer is a great time to teach your children about money.

Give your kids a small weekly cash allowance for treats or activities and let them decide how to spend or save it. This builds smart money habits early. Note: Our online banking tools are designed for adult account holders.

Make Memories and Save Money This Summer

The best part of summer isn’t how much you spend, but it’s the time you spend together. By being intentional with your money, you can enjoy all the season has to offer without the stress of overspending.

 A simple day at the park, a homemade picnic, or a backyard game night can be just as meaningful (and often more memorable) than expensive outing.

Remember: You can monitor your transaction history and account activity by logging into your online banking application here: Account Services | Guaranty Bank

Note that some transactions may take time to post or reflect in your account balance.

The Financial Tools section is available at no additional charge to eligible account holders.  

Published On: July 6, 2026

Guaranty Bank Appoints Diédre Barret as EVP, Chief Experience Officer

BELZONI, MS – Hue Townsend, CEO of Guaranty Bank, is pleased to announce the appointment of Diédre Barret as Executive Vice President, Chief Experience Officer (CXO), a role that will lead the bank’s strategy for delivering a consistent, service‑first experience for clients, employees, and communities.

Barret, a 23-year veteran of Guaranty Bank, is widely recognized as a dynamic, people-centered leader who has helped redefine what it means to be a primary financial partner. She brings together innovation, technology, communication, and genuine human connection to ensure banking remains both personal and impactful.

“Diédre has an extraordinary ability to see the big picture while staying deeply committed to local impact,” said CEO, Hue Townsend. “Her leadership strengthens our identity as a trusted community bank while pushing us forward with fresh ideas, sharper execution, and a unified vision for how we serve.”

In her new role as Chief Experience Officer, Barret will guide the work, defining, coaching and executing a consistent service first experience across all Guaranty Bank locations. Her focus will be on moving beyond transactions to ensure teams show up every day as trusted advisors, building relationships, solving problems, and delivering on the bank’s mission to help people and communities prosper.

Barret is known for cultivating an environment where ideas thrive and people achieve their best. She is a fierce advocate for the power of community banking, believing that strong relationships and tailored solutions are essential to long‑term community success.

“This structure strengthens accountability, sharpens execution, and supports our vision while maintaining who we are at our core,” Barret said. “I’m honored to lead this work and excited for what it means for our clients, our teams, and the communities we serve.”

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Barret remains deeply rooted in Belzoni, Mississippi, home to Guaranty Bank’s flagship office. She and her husband, Spencer, are the proud parents of three children, and she is also a proud “Honey” to three grandchildren.

About Guaranty Bank:

Founded in 1943, Guaranty Bank is a privately held financial institution serving individuals, businesses, and communities across Mississippi and Tennessee. With 38 locations and a full range of consumer, commercial, mortgage, and wealth services, Guaranty Bank combines the strength of a modern financial partner with the personal relationships of a community bank. As a certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), the bank is deeply committed to expanding access to financial services and supporting economic growth in the communities it serves. 

For more information about Guaranty Bank, please visit gbtonline.com or follow us on FacebookLinkedIn and Instagram.  

Media Contact: Mary Ashley O’Reilly at maryashley@gbtonline.com

Published On: July 6, 2026

Melissa Brady Joins Guaranty Bank as EVP, Chief Marketing Officer

BELZONI, MS – Hue Townsend, CEO of Guaranty Bank, is pleased to announce that Melissa Brady has joined the bank as Executive Vice President, Chief Marketing Officer, where she will lead marketing strategy, brand development, and corporate communications. In this role, Brady will oversee integrated marketing initiatives designed to strengthen brand awareness, deepen customer relationships, support business growth, and advance the bank’s long‑term strategic objectives.

Brady brings more than 20 years of experience driving marketing transformation and growth for national and global organizations. Prior to joining Guaranty Bank, she served as Senior Vice President of Marketing, Communications, and Customer Experience at Fogelman, and previously held leadership roles at ServiceMaster, FedEx, and Juice Plus+.

A Mississippi native, Brady holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Mississippi State University and a Master of Science in Integrated Marketing Communications from Northwestern University. She also serves on the Board of the Regional One Health Foundation, a nonprofit organization that supports one of the Mid‑South’s leading academic medical centers and trauma hospitals.

“Melissa is a dynamic and strategic leader whose expertise will elevate our brand and strengthen our connection with customers across the communities we serve,” said CEO Hue Townsend. “Her vision and experience will play a critical role in advancing our mission and supporting our continued growth.”

About Guaranty Bank:

Founded in 1943, Guaranty Bank is a privately held financial institution serving individuals, businesses, and communities across Mississippi and Tennessee. With 38 locations and a full range of consumer, commercial, mortgage, and wealth services, Guaranty Bank combines the strength of a modern financial partner with the personal relationships of a community bank. As a certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), the bank is deeply committed to expanding access to financial services and supporting economic growth in the communities it serves. 

For more information about Guaranty Bank, please visit gbtonline.com or follow us on FacebookLinkedIn and Instagram.  

Media Contact: Mary Ashley O’Reilly at maryashley@gbtonline.com

Published On: May 28, 2026

Teach Children to Save: Guaranty Bank Brings Financial Literacy to 550 Students in April 2026

BELZONI, MS – Hue Townsend, CEO of Guaranty Bank, is proud to announce the bank’s participation in the American Bankers Association Foundation’s Teach Children to Save program throughout April 2026, reaching nearly 550 students promoting financial literacy across our community.

As part of Guaranty Bank’s continued commitment to financial literacy and community investment, representatives from more than 80% of branches across our bank-wide footprint participated in the initiative by visiting local classrooms and leading financial education discussions.

 What Is the Teach Children to Save Program?

The Teach Children to Save program is a national initiative held in April where bankers, educators, and volunteers teach children K–8 about saving, budgeting, and making good financial decisions.

Throughout the month, Guaranty Bank team members introduced students to foundational money management concepts through interactive conversations and real-life examples, including:

Key Money Lessons Taught to Students

  • Spend, Save, Share: Decide in advance how much of allowance or earnings goes to each category.
  • Open a savings account: Let kids monitor growth and see the value of money.
  • Teach needs vs. wants: Show how saving covers essentials while preparing for wants.
  • Use real purchases: Have kids pay with their own money to understand cost.
  • Create a savings goal: Give it a name and picture so it feels personal.

Why Early Financial Education Matters

For many students, these lessons provide exposure to financial concepts they may not otherwise encounter in a traditional classroom setting. Guaranty Bank views financial education as a critical part of strengthening the long-term success of the communities it serves.

Branch Manager of our Ridgeland office, Cindy Deerman, shared “teaching kids to save is one of the best money habits we can share. Whether a first grader is dreaming big—like pretending to save for a Range Rover—or just hoping to buy a fun new toy, saving early helps them learn how to set goals, make good choices, and practice patience.”

Building Stronger Communities Through Financial Literacy

These small lessons help kids feel confident. Over time, they turn into important life skills—planning ahead, avoiding impulse buys, and feeling in control of their money. When we help kids build these habits now, we’re giving them a strong start and helping them grow into smart, thoughtful money‑makers in the future.

By cultivating a community that values financial literacy, we give our children the tools, support, and inspiration they need to build a secure future. Together, we’re not just teaching them to save money, we’re teaching them to save for their dreams.

About Teach Children To Save:

ABA Foundation, a (501C)3, provides free programs and resources to help banks support the financial well-being of their customers and communities. ABA Foundation’s mission is to inspire, equip and empower banks of all sizes to build thriving, resilient and equitable communities. Learn more at: https://www.aba.com/advocacy/community-programs/teach-children-save

About Guaranty Bank:

Guaranty Bank’s mission is to set the standard in our communities for excellence in financial service products and their delivery, to strengthen the communities we serve, and to help improve the quality of life in those areas; while creating lasting value for our shareholders, employees, and customers. Learn more at Personal & Business Banking Services | Guaranty Bank

Published On: May 13, 2026

Kaley Cassandras, Branch Manager, Joins Guaranty Bank

BELZONI, MS – Hue Townsend, CEO of Guaranty Bank, is pleased to announce that Kaley Cassandras has joined Guaranty Bank as Branch Manager in Oakland.

Kaley is a graduate of Gateway Christian School and actively participates in the local Oakland Chamber. She frequently volunteers with Fayette Cares, demonstrating her commitment to the community. As a devoted mom and wife, she enjoys life with her two-year-old child and their English bulldog. In her free time, Kaley loves kayaking and cherishing moments outdoors with her family.

Nick Nichols, President and Commercial Banker in Oakland, shared his enthusiasm for Kaley’s leadership, stating, “We’re excited for Kaley to lead our team, and I am confident she will make meaningful contributions to both our customers and our community.”.

Kaley began her banking career in 2021 and has gained experience in all facets of the industry. Through her career, she has served as a teller, consumer service representative, loan assistant, assistant branch manager, and now she proudly serves as the branch manager at our Oakland office.

About Guaranty Bank & Trust: 

Guaranty Bank’s mission is to set the standard in our communities for excellence in financial service products and their delivery, to strengthen the communities we serve, and to help improve the quality of life in those areas; while creating last value for our shareholders, employees, and customers. Learn more at Personal & Business Banking Services | Guaranty Bank

Published On: May 13, 2026

Graduation, What’s Next? Let’s Build Your Future

Graduating from college marks an exciting milestone filled with new opportunities and responsibilities. One of the most important aspects of this transition is gaining financial independence and responsibility. From managing student loans to budgeting for daily expenses, graduates face a steep learning curve. At Guaranty Bank, we take pride in helping young adults navigate these challenges and build a strong financial foundation for their future.

Why Financial Responsibility Matters for Graduates

Financial responsibility is more than just managing money—it’s about making informed decisions that impact long-term financial health. For graduates, this means:

  • Understanding credit and debt management
  • Building savings and emergency funds
  • Planning for major expenses like rent, transportation, and insurance
  • Setting financial goals such as buying a home or investing

Without proper guidance, graduates risk falling into debt traps or missing opportunities to grow their wealth.

How Guaranty Bank Can Support Graduates in Achieving Financial Goals

We offer a variety of tools and services designed to empower graduates to take control of their finances:

1. Student-Friendly Banking Products

  • We provide accounts tailored for students and recent graduates, featuring low fees, no minimum balance requirements, and easy access to funds.

2. Financial Education and Resources

  • We offer in-person financial literacy workshops and online content focused on budgeting, credit building, and investing basics. These resources help graduates make informed decisions.

3. Credit Building Opportunities

  • Establishing good credit early is vital. We can provide credit cards with manageable limits to help graduates build credit history responsibly.

4. Personalized Financial Planning

  • Through one-on-one consultations, we can help graduates create customized budgets, set savings goals, and plan for loan repayment strategies.

5. Digital Tools and Apps

  • Our digital banking platform includes budgeting features, spending trackers, and alerts that help graduates monitor their finances in real time and avoid overspending.

Let’s Get Started!

Graduates can begin building financial confidence by taking a few simple steps:

1. Opening a checking and savings account to separate spending and saving.

2. Setting up automatic transfers to build an emergency fund.

3. Using budgeting tools like GOALS in our banking application to track income and expenses.

4. Applying for a credit card designed for beginners and paying balances in full each month.

5. Scheduling regular financial check-ins with a bank advisor to adjust plans as life changes.

Financial responsibility is a critical skill for graduates entering adulthood. At Guaranty Bank, we have a unique opportunity to guide and support young adults through this transition with tailored products, education, and tools. By working together, graduates can build a strong financial future, avoid common pitfalls, and achieve their dreams with confidence. We look forward to helping graduates confidently step into financial independence and work toward their long-term goals.

For more information on how we can support your financial journey after graduation, visit your local Guaranty Bank branch or learn more about all the resources we have to offer! 

Open a student checking account: Personal Checking | Guaranty Bank

Apply for a credit card: Personal Credit Cards | Guaranty Bank

Financial literacy classes: Financial Education Events | Guaranty Bank

Investing in your future: Investing in your Future EVERFI | Guaranty Bank

Financial foundations: Financial Foundations EVERFI | Guaranty Bank

Online banking features: Digital Banking | Guaranty Bank


Disclaimer:

This material is provided for general information and educational purposes only and is not intended as financial, legal, or investment advice. The information presented may not be suitable for all individuals and should not be relied upon as the sole basis for financial decisions. 

Published On: May 13, 2026

VA Loans Explained: What Veterans Need to Know Before Buying a Home

A VA Loan is a mortgage loan program established by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to help veterans, active-duty service members, and eligible surviving spouses purchase, build, or refinance a home. This benefit is designed to make homeownership more accessible and affordable for those who have served in the military.

VA Loans offer several advantages that set them apart from conventional loans. They typically require no down payment, have competitive interest rates, and do not require private mortgage insurance (PMI). This means veterans can often buy a home with little to no upfront cost and lower monthly payments.

Below are a few common frequently asked questions answered by our very own veteran at Guaranty Bank, Vice President, Mortgage Loan Officer, Doug Capps.

  • What are the benefits of a VA Loan? VA loans allow for 100% financing with no down payment, no monthly mortgage insurance, flexible credit requirements, and competitive interest rates. 
  •  Who qualifies for a VA Loan? Veterans, active duty, National Guard and reserve members, and some surviving spouses. There are service history, length of service, and duty requirements for eligibility.
  •  Can I use my VA Home Loan benefit more than once? Yes, VA loans are not just a one-time use loan. You can re-use your home loan benefits over and over, and in some cases, you could have two VA loans at one time (based upon eligibility and available VA entitlement).
  • How do I get my Certificate of Eligibility (COE)? Lenders can obtain this information directly from VA, but in some situations, VA may require additional documentation from the borrower to prove eligibility.
  • Does my credit score matter for a VA Loan? VA does not impose a minimum credit score requirement. However, this is a lender-to-lender requirement, as many lenders do require a minimum credit score to qualify.
  • Are there closing costs or funding fees associated with a VA Loan? Yes, VA loans have normal closing costs and pre-paid items associated with mortgage financing. VA loans also require upfront funding fees (which can be financed into the loan) and some Veterans may be exempt.
  • Can I use a VA Loan to buy a second home or investment property? Unfortunately, no. VA loans are allowed for primary residences only.
  • Is there a maximum VA Loan amount I can obtain? No, VA does not have a maximum loan amount. Instead, this is determined by the lender (based upon their maximum allowed loan amount) and the borrower’s capability of qualifying. 
  • Can you refinance with a VA Loan? Yes, VA allows for two types of refinances: either a cash-out refinance up to 100% of your home value, or an IRRRL (Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan) which offers a streamline process and no appraisal.

Additionally, VA Loans provide flexible credit requirements and limit closing costs, making it easier for veterans to qualify and manage the financial aspects of homeownership. The program also offers protections against foreclosure in certain situations, providing an extra layer of security for veterans.

Overall, a VA Loan is a valuable benefit that supports veterans in achieving the dream of owning a home, recognizing their service and sacrifice with favorable loan terms and support. To learn more please visit: https://gbt.mymortgage-online.com/LoanOptions.html#Govt

Educational Disclaimer:

This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute a loan offer, commitment, or approval. All loan programs, terms, eligibility requirements, and credit standards are subject to change at any time. Loan approval requires a complete application and underwriting review. Down payment assistance programs have limited availability and may include income limits, credit requirements, homebuyer education, and property eligibility criteria. Appraisal values and inspection results cannot be guaranteed. For specific information about your situation, please contact one of our loan officers.

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