Basic Eligibility Requirements for a VA Loan.
The VA loan is guaranteed by the Department of Veterans Affairs but provided through private lenders. Both the VA and each individual lender have requirements that must be met to use the VA loan benefit.
VA home loan eligibility depends on service dates, length and type of service, duty status, and qualifying exceptions. A Certificate of Eligibility (COE) confirms eligibility for the VA home loan benefit; it does not guarantee loan approval. Borrowers must also meet applicable credit, income, and occupancy requirements. Review VA’s current eligibility criteria for your service history. Read the official guidance.
Obtaining a Certificate of Eligibility
One of the first steps to using your VA loan entitlement is demonstrating your eligibility to your lender. This is done through obtaining a Certificate of Eligibility, or COE, from the Department of Veterans Affairs.
The COE is not required when applying for a VA loan but will be necessary to get during the loan process. Oftentimes, your lender can request the COE on your behalf with your permission.
To get your COE, you can:
- Apply through the mail with VA Form 26-1880
- Request your COE online through VA.gov; VA also explains how to apply through a lender or by mail. Read the official guidance.
- Apply through your lender