VA Certificate of Eligibility
Veterans, active-duty service members, and eligible spouses seeking a VA home loan must first obtain a VA Certificate of Eligibility, or COE.
Requesting a COE and applying for a VA-backed home loan can be complex and confusing. Veterans Guide is here to provide straightforward, accessible support at every stage. This guide will help you understand what a VA COE is, who qualifies, and how to obtain one.
What Is a VA Certificate of Eligibility, or COE?
A COE is an official document from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs verifying your eligibility for a VA home loan. VA home loans are issued by private lenders such as banks, mortgage companies, and credit unions. However, the VA guarantees a portion of the loan amount, thus encouraging lenders to offer better terms.
A COE is necessary to prove to mortgage lenders that you meet the military service requirements to apply for a VA-backed loan. The COE also includes your entitlement amount, which indicates the portion of your loan that the VA will back.
While the COE confirms to a lender that you are eligible for a VA home loan, it does not guarantee that you will receive a loan pre-approval or approval. You still must meet the income and credit requirements typically set by lenders to receive a loan approval.
You do not necessarily need to obtain your COE before starting your VA loan application process or beginning house-hunting. Often, a lender can assist you with requesting a COE.
Who Needs a VA Certificate of Eligibility?
The VA’s home loan program assists service members and veterans with buying, building, or improving a home or refinancing a current home loan. However, to obtain a loan, you must first obtain a COE.
To obtain a COE and qualify for a VA home loan, the applicant must meet the following minimum eligibility requirements:
- Veterans: You are generally eligible if you have completed at least 90 days of active service in wartime or 181 days in peacetime. However, the requirements may vary depending on when you served.
- Active-duty service members: You are generally eligible if you have completed at least 90 continuous days of active service.
- National Guard and Reserve members: If you have never been activated, you are eligible if you have completed six years in the National Guard or the Selected Reserve. In the alternative, you are eligible if you have served at least 90 days of non-training active-duty.
- Surviving spouses: Single spouses of service members who died on active duty or from a service-connected disability can request a COE.
How To Apply for a VA Certificate of Eligibility
There are three main methods to request your COE.
Online Application
Requesting a COE through the VA’s eBenefits portal is generally the most convenient method for many. Once you log in to the portal or create an account, complete and submit VA Form 26-1880. If your service records are already updated in the VA’s online system, you could qualify to access your COE from the website automatically.
Apply Through a Mortgage Lender
If you have already chosen a VA-approved mortgage lender to work with, they may be authorized to assist you in obtaining your COE. Most lenders have access to the VA’s WebLGY system, which allows them to request your certificate electronically.
By Mail
You can also request a COE by mailing a completed VA Form 26-1880 along with all the required supporting documentation to the appropriate VA regional loan center. The addresses for the various loan centers across different states are listed on the form.
Regardless of the application method, you must submit supporting documents for the VA to review. The documentation depends on your status, as follows:
- Veterans: You must submit a copy of your military discharge or separation papers, or DD214.
- Active-duty service members: You must submit a statement of service signed by your commanding officer or personnel officer, which shows the date you entered duty and other personal information.
- National Guard or Reserve members: Depending on whether you are a current or former activated member, additional forms may be required to prove your service, such as the DD214 or NGB Form 22.
- Surviving spouses: You must submit a copy of your marriage certificate, the veteran’s death certificate, and DD214. In some cases, a VA Form 26-1817 may also be required for unmarried surviving spouses to prove their VA loan eligibility.
What Happens After You Get Your COE?
After receiving your VA COE, you can focus on house-hunting and working with a VA-approved lender to get your VA home loan approved. Contact multiple lenders to explore your options and compare loan terms before settling on one you trust. Mortgage rates, closing costs, fees, and other terms will vary by lender.
During the loan application process, lenders will examine key financial metrics, including your income, credit history, and debt-to-income ratio, to ensure you meet the home loan credit requirements. Generally, lenders require borrowers to have a minimum credit score of 620.
However, having a lower credit score does not automatically mean you will be denied. Your lender will also consider other factors, such as the value of your assets or your ability to put down a sizable down payment.
When searching for your ideal house or mobile home, a mortgage pre-approval letter from your lender is helpful. It provides an estimate of what you can afford, helping narrow your search to houses within your budget. It also offers an advantage in negotiations by showing sellers and real estate agents you are a serious and motivated buyer.
Upon receiving a loan approval, your lender will also assist you in finalizing your home purchase and ensuring your home meets the VA’s minimum property requirements.
Veterans with service-connected disabilities can also consider applying for VA housing grants. These funds allow eligible veterans to buy, build, or improve their homes to accommodate their disabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are answers to frequently asked questions about the VA Certificate of Eligibility.
How Long Does It Take To Receive a COE?
The COE processing time varies depending on your method of application. Online requests or applications through your lender are usually processed quickly. The VA aims to resolve COE requests within five business days. However, mail applications may take several weeks longer.
Can I Get a COE if I Have Bad Credit?
You may still obtain a COE even with bad credit. The VA does not set a minimum credit score to be eligible for a COE or VA-backed loans. However, a borrower must meet the private mortgage lender’s credit requirements and guidelines.
Does a COE Guarantee a Loan Approval?
No. Before approving or denying your loan, lenders will still consider various financial factors, including your income, assets, and debt.
What if I Lost My COE?
If you have misplaced your COE, you can request a replacement by applying for a new COE online, by mail, or through your lender.
Do I Need a New COE if I Use My VA Loan Benefits Again?
Once the COE has been issued, it does not expire and may be reused. Your entitlement can also be restored to obtain a new VA-backed mortgage if you meet the eligibility requirements. You can request an entitlement restoration by mail, online, or through your lender.
Get Help With Your VA COE or Home Loan
Navigating the home loan process can be complicated and overwhelming without the right information and support. Veterans Guide can connect you with a trusted VA-approved lender to help you secure your VA COE and guide you through every step of the VA home loan process.
Our team is dedicated to helping all veterans and military service members attain the VA benefits they deserve for their service. Contact Veterans Guide today for personalized assistance.
Client Reviews
ANN WILLIAMS SHELLY DONNETT'E Want to Increase Your VA Rating?
