VA loan Certificate of Eligibility (COE)

Before a lender can give you a VA home loan, you need a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) — the document that proves to the lender you've earned the VA home-loan benefit. Getting it is usually quick.

Who qualifies

Most veterans, active-duty service members, and many National Guard and Reserve members who meet the minimum service requirements qualify, as do some surviving spouses. Your COE confirms eligibility and shows your entitlement.

Entitlement — why it matters

If you have your full entitlement, there's no VA loan limit and no required down payment — lenders can finance 100% (subject to their own limits and your qualifying). If you already have a VA loan or had one foreclosed, you may have reduced (second-tier) entitlement, which can still allow a second VA loan with some math. Entitlement can be restored once you sell and pay off a prior VA loan.

How to get your COE (fastest first)

  1. Through your lender — most can pull it instantly through the VA's online system. This is usually the fastest route.
  2. Online yourself at VA.gov.
  3. By mail with VA Form 26-1880. Have your DD-214 (veterans) or a statement of service (active duty) ready.

Next: estimate your budget with the VA loan affordability tool, and check whether you owe a funding fee (veterans getting VA disability pay are exempt).

General information, not lending advice. Eligibility and entitlement are determined by the VA and your lender. Source: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.