Native American Direct Loan (NADL)
VA lends the money directly (not through a bank) to buy, build or improve a home on federal trust land, or to refinance an existing NADL to a lower rate. It's open to Native American Veterans, and to non-Native Veterans married to a Native American.
You need a VA Certificate of Eligibility, you must meet VA's credit and income standards and live in the home, and your tribe must have an agreement with VA. Most loans need no down payment. A funding fee may apply. Rates change, so ask VA for today's rate.
VA Native American Direct Loan
Or email NADL@va.gov.
VA and tribal governments
VA's Office of Tribal Government Relations works with tribes on access to health care and benefits, with specialists by region. If your tribe has a Veterans office or a tribal Veterans representative, start there; they know both systems.
Ask your tribal or Indian Health Service clinic and your VA team how your care can work together, so you don't pay twice or repeat tests.
Housing, rides and benefits
Many reservations are far from VA. Free rides, rural ride grants and video visits can help. Some housing programs, including a tribal version of HUD-VASH, serve Native Veterans.
Questions to bring to an accredited representative
County Veteran service officers and VSO representatives help at no cost. Accredited attorneys and claims agents may charge fees in the limited situations allowed by law.
- Does my tribe have an agreement with VA for the Native American Direct Loan?
- Who is the tribal Veterans representative or VA tribal specialist for my area?
- Can my tribal or IHS clinic and VA share my care?
Your next step
Official sources
Reviewed against these sources on October 26, 2026. Rules change. Confirm details with VA or an accredited representative before you act on them.
This guide is general education. It does not decide your eligibility, it is not legal or medical advice, and Helping The Brave is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Keep reading
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