**BREAKING: FACT CHECK — Claims that billions in VA home loan benefits are “sitting unused” are misleading.** Viral posts suggest veterans are leaving $300 billion on the table by not using the program, but experts say the real story is more nuanced. While participation is lower than eligible population (~33% usage), the program isn’t “unused” due to neglect — many vets own homes already, face strict credit or duty requirements, or opt for conventional loans with smaller fees. Also, the $300B figure often cited refers to *total available loan guarantee authority*, not unclaimed cash. Bottom line: benefits are real and underused, but not “lost.”