VA Certificate of Eligibility: Everything You Need to Know
In this Article
A VA Certificate of Eligibility (COE) is the key that unlocks the powerful benefits of a VA-backed home loan. Veterans, active-duty service members, National Guard or Reserve personnel, and certain surviving spouses can all use a COE to access flexible lending terms, no private mortgage insurance (PMI), and no or low down payment requirements.
While the COE doesn’t guarantee loan approval by itself, it proves you meet the military service requirements that qualify you for a VA mortgage.
This guide will walk you through what a COE is, who needs one, how to get it, and how to use it effectively throughout 2025 and beyond.
What Is a VA Certificate of Eligibility (COE)?
A VA Certificate of Eligibility is an official document provided by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs which you can request via the VA eBenefits portal. It confirms that your military service (or your spouse’s service, if you’re an eligible surviving spouse) meets the criteria necessary to receive a VA-backed loan. Although additional financial factors—such as credit score, income, debt-to-income ratio, and property requirements—will still determine final loan approval, this document is an essential starting point.
- The COE verifies that your service record meets eligibility thresholds for a VA-backed mortgage.
- Lenders require it to confirm you can receive VA loan benefits like no PMI and limited or no down payment.
- The COE itself doesn’t expire, but service changes or previous loan usage can affect how much entitlement you have.
Why the COE Matters
Even if you’re certain you qualify for VA benefits, the lender must see official documentation from the Department of Veterans Affairs. That’s where the COE comes in. By presenting a COE, you’ll streamline the loan application stage and avoid potential confusion about your military status or entitlement.
- Demonstrates official proof of eligibility so lenders can process your loan faster.
- Indicates any funding fee exemptions, which can save thousands on closing costs.
- Shows how much of your VA entitlement is available for your loan.
- Supports second-time or multiple-time usage if you’ve had VA loans before.
Because the VA home loan program offers competitive interest rates, no ongoing mortgage insurance, and flexible credit requirements, verifying your eligibility is critical. Obtaining the COE early helps set realistic expectations about your purchase or refinance power.
VA Loan Eligibility Calculator
Who Qualifies for a VA Certificate of Eligibility?
Many service categories qualify for a COE, but each group may have different documentation or service duration requirements. Understanding these distinctions can help you gather the right paperwork and ensure your application goes smoothly.
Veterans
Most veterans are eligible if they served a minimum required length of active duty, typically 90 consecutive days during wartime or 181 days during peacetime. An other-than-dishonorable discharge is necessary. If your discharge is less than honorable, you may still qualify under specific circumstances, such as medical discharges or discharge upgrades.
- At least 90 days of active service in wartime or 181 days in peacetime.
- Character of discharge cannot be dishonorable, though waivers exist in certain cases.
- Must provide a DD-214 to verify dates of service and discharge status.
Active-Duty Service Members
Individuals currently serving in the military may become eligible after at least 90 continuous days of active duty. A statement of service signed by a commanding officer is usually needed instead of a DD-214, since they are still on active duty.
- Must complete at least 90 continuous days of active service.
- Statement of service must detail name, Social Security Number, and service dates.
- Potential immediate eligibility for a COE if meeting minimum service thresholds.
Guard and Reserve Members
Members of the National Guard and Reserve often have separate criteria. Generally, six years of honorable service in the Selected Reserve is required if they were never activated. If called to active duty under Title 10 orders, they may qualify with fewer total years.
- Must complete six years in the Selected Reserve if never activated.
- If activated under Title 10 for at least 90 days, may qualify sooner.
- Need to submit either a DD-214 (for activated members) or a points statement (for never-activated members).
Surviving Spouses
Un-remarried spouses of service members who died on active duty or due to a service-connected disability can qualify for a COE. In some cases, remarried surviving spouses can still be eligible if certain conditions are met (like remarriage after a certain age). Documentation includes a marriage license and death certificate, plus a relevant VA form if not receiving Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC).
- Spouse’s death must be service-related or occur in the line of duty.
- Typically must remain un-remarried, though remarriage exceptions can apply after a certain age.
- Must provide marriage and death certificates and a specific VA form if not already on record.
The VA designed its eligibility guidelines to reward honorable military service while also ensuring that lending standards remain robust. Once you’re confident you meet these service requirements, it’s time to apply for the actual certificate.
How to Obtain a Certificate of Eligibility
Once you’ve established your eligibility, the next step is to apply for your COE. There are three main ways to do this, depending on your preference and circumstances.
Required Documents for COE Application
Before you apply, ensure you have the following documents:
- Veterans: DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty).
- Active-Duty Members: Statement of service signed by a commanding officer.
- National Guard/Reserves: DD-214 or Retirement Points Statement along with proof of honorable service.
- Surviving Spouses: Death certificate, marriage license, and VA Form 21P-534EZ (if not already receiving Dependency & Indemnity Compensation).
Methods to Apply for a COE
You can request a COE in one of the following ways:
Online via eBenefits Portal
- Online: Using the eBenefits Portal is the fastest method, allowing you to apply digitally and receive instant results if your documentation is straightforward.
- Through Your Lender: Most VA-approved lenders can obtain your COE for you using the VA’s automated system. This is typically done when you start the loan application process, and it can save you time.
- By Mail: Complete VA Form 26-1880 and send it with your supporting documents to the appropriate VA regional loan center. This is the slowest method and can take 4-6 weeks for processing.
| Method | Processing Time | Advantages |
|---|---|---|
| Online via eBenefits | Usually Instant | Fastest, easy to use |
| Through Lender | Minutes to a Few Hours | Simplifies the process; handled by lender |
| By Mail | 4-6 Weeks | Useful for those without easy online access |
What the COE Tells You
The COE is more than just proof of eligibility—it contains crucial information that your lender will use to assess your loan application. Here’s what to look for:
Funding Fee Exemption Status
- Exempt: If you have a service-related disability, your COE may show an exempt status, meaning you won’t need to pay the VA funding fee.
- Non-exempt: Borrowers who are not exempt must pay a funding fee, which is typically 2.3% of the loan amount for first-time VA loan users and 3.6% for subsequent loans.
Entitlement Code
Your entitlement code indicates the period in which you served and your corresponding VA benefits. For example:
- Entitlement Code 10: Indicates you served during the Persian Gulf War.
- Entitlement Code 5: Means you’ve used a VA loan before and may need to pay a higher funding fee on a subsequent loan.
| Entitlement Code | Period of Service |
|---|---|
| 1 | World War II |
| 2 | Korean War |
| 5 | Entitlement Restored |
| 6 | Un-remarried Surviving Spouse |
| 10 | Persian Gulf War |
Previous VA Loans
The COE also lists any prior VA loans you’ve used, showing the amount borrowed, the date of the loan, the entitlement used, and whether the loan is still active. This is important for determining how much remaining entitlement you have.
COE for Second-Time VA Loan Users
Veterans can reuse their Certificate of Eligibility (COE) after paying off a previous VA loan, enabling access to additional VA loan benefits. Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for:
- Full Entitlement Restoration: Available if your previous VA loan is fully paid off and the property is sold. You can request restoration through the VA to regain your full entitlement, allowing no-down-payment financing.
- Partial Entitlement: If you still have an active VA loan or haven’t sold the previous property, you can use any remaining entitlement for another VA loan. This may require a down payment depending on the loan amount.
Keep in mind that partial entitlement can impact the amount of financing available without a down payment. Understanding how much entitlement remains is crucial when planning for a second VA loan.
Veterans should also consider potential funding fee adjustments, as subsequent uses often come with higher fees. Work with your lender to assess your entitlement status and ensure you maximize your COE benefits for subsequent home purchases.
Eligibility Exceptions and Special Cases
When it comes to VA loan eligibility, some unique situations warrant special consideration. While most veterans and service members meet standard criteria, exceptions and special cases provide access to those whose circumstances differ slightly.
Title 32 vs. Title 10 Service for National Guard Members
National Guard members may qualify for a VA loan based on the nature and duration of their service. The distinction between Title 32 and Title 10 orders is critical:
- Title 32 Service: Refers to state-controlled duty but federally funded (e.g., responding to natural disasters). VA eligibility under Title 32 typically requires:
- At least 90 cumulative days of active service during wartime.
- Completion of six years of honorable service in the Selected Reserve.
- Title 10 Service: Covers federal active-duty service (e.g., deployment to war zones). National Guard members serving under Title 10 orders generally qualify for VA loans after 90 continuous days of service.
Veterans with Less-Than-Honorable Discharges
Veterans with less-than-honorable discharges may still qualify under specific circumstances, such as:
- Medical Discharge: If a veteran was discharged due to a service-related medical condition, they may qualify for VA loan benefits.
- Discharge Upgrade: Veterans can apply for a discharge upgrade through the VA or Department of Defense to meet eligibility requirements.
- Character of Service Determination: Veterans can request this review from the VA, which evaluates their service history to determine if they qualify for VA benefits despite their discharge status.
Reservists’ Eligibility Clarifications
Reservists who serve in the Selected Reserve are eligible for VA loans under the following conditions:
- Six years of service in the Selected Reserve with an honorable discharge.
- Completion of 90 days of active service under Title 10 orders, particularly during wartime or a national emergency.
- Eligibility extends to those retired from the Reserves or discharged due to a service-connected disability.
Unique Cases for Surviving Spouses
Surviving spouses of veterans have unique eligibility conditions:
- Unmarried Spouses: Eligibility applies if the service member died in the line of duty or from a service-connected condition, provided the spouse has not remarried.
- Remarriage After Age 57: Surviving spouses who remarry after age 57 (and after December 16, 2003) may retain eligibility.
- Spouses of MIA/POWs: Spouses of service members missing in action or held as prisoners of war for more than 90 days are eligible.
- Documentation Requirements: To apply, surviving spouses must provide proof such as:
- Marriage certificate.
- Death certificate of the service member.
- VA Form 21P-534EZ if not already receiving Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC).
Using Your COE Multiple Times
VA loans are reusable benefits, meaning you can tap into your COE more than once. The key is how much entitlement remains and whether you fully paid off or refinanced any prior VA loans.
Full Entitlement Restoration
If you sold or refinanced your previous property and completely paid off the VA loan, you can usually apply for full entitlement restoration. This process essentially resets your entitlement so you can secure a new loan with zero down payment, subject to your income and credit qualifications.
- Ensure your prior VA loan is fully repaid and the property is no longer in your name.
- Request restoration from the VA by submitting the required form and documentation.
- Check your updated COE to verify the restoration is complete before proceeding with a new loan.
Partial Entitlement
If you still own a home financed with a VA loan, you might only have partial entitlement left. This reduced entitlement can mean you have to make a down payment if you want another VA-backed loan above a certain amount. However, partial entitlement can still be beneficial for financing a second property in some scenarios, such as relocating for work.
- You may owe a down payment if the new purchase price exceeds your remaining entitlement.
- Subsequent usage funding fee rates usually apply, unless you’re exempt.
- Lenders will calculate your remaining entitlement by reviewing your current COE and any active VA loans.
Multiple loan usage is especially relevant for growing families or service members who transfer frequently. As long as you meet debt-to-income and the VA credit guidelines, partial entitlement may help you secure additional properties for personal use or as part of a real estate strategy.
Key Information Found on Your COE
The COE provides more than just entitlement details. Here’s what to look for:
- Entitlement Code: Indicates your service period and eligibility type (e.g., Gulf War, peacetime, or surviving spouse).
- Funding Fee Exemption Status: Shows whether you are exempt from paying the VA funding fee due to a service-connected disability or other qualifying factors.
- Previous Loan Usage: Lists prior VA loans, including the amount and status, to determine remaining entitlement.
Using Your Entitlement
While the entitlement on your COE is an essential factor, it does not guarantee loan approval. Lenders will also assess your financial profile, including:
- Credit Score: The VA does not set a minimum, but most lenders require 580-620 or higher.
- Income: No set limits, but lenders evaluate debt-to-income (DTI) ratios, typically aiming for 41% or lower.
- Property Requirements: The home must meet Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs) to ensure safety, functionality, and livability.
Troubleshooting Common COE Issues
Sometimes, even if you’re clearly eligible, you might run into problems when requesting your COE. Common challenges include missing records, system errors, or initial denials.
- Missing or Unavailable DD-214: Request duplicates from the National Archives or local records office.
- Online System Can’t Find You: Confirm your Social Security Number, date of birth, and service dates match your military records exactly.
- Initial Denial: You may need an official discharge upgrade, an appeal, or more detailed documentation of your service.
- Slow Mail Processing: If 6+ weeks have passed, call the VA’s regional loan center for a status update on your mailed application.
Solving these issues usually requires patience and thorough recordkeeping. In many cases, the VA just needs additional proof of service or clarifications about your discharge to approve the certificate. If you’re pressed for time, consider applying through a knowledgeable lender who can expedite the process using the VA’s automated systems.
Understanding Your VA Certificate of Eligibility
Once approved, your COE will list several crucial pieces of information that directly affect your mortgage eligibility. Knowing what each section represents helps you and your lender determine how much you can borrow without a down payment and whether you must pay a funding fee.
Entitlement (Basic vs. Bonus)
The core function of the COE is to show how much entitlement the VA will guarantee on your behalf. Traditional basic entitlement is up to $36,000 for loans under $144,000, but home prices have risen, making “Bonus Entitlement” a major factor for most borrowers.
- Basic Entitlement: Typically $36,000, often used in conjunction with bonus entitlement for modern home prices.
- Bonus Entitlement: Allows larger loan amounts without a down payment if you qualify financially.
Not a Direct Limit on Loan Size: The entitlement just indicates how much the VA will back; lenders still assess your credit and income for final amounts.
Funding Fee Exemption Status
Your COE also shows whether you must pay the VA funding fee. Those with service-connected disabilities often receive reduced closing costs. Non-exempt borrowers pay a percentage based on whether it’s a first or subsequent use of the VA loan benefit.
- First-Time Usage: Usually around 2.3% of the loan amount for eligible borrowers.
- Subsequent Usage: Typically 3.6%, but still lower than typical mortgage insurance costs for many loans.
- Exemption: Veterans or service members with a qualifying disability rating often pay no funding fee at all.
Entitlement Codes
Your COE will often feature a code that corresponds to your period or type of service. While these codes help the VA organize different service eras, they can also affect your funding fee rates or usage patterns.
Entitlement Code Service Era / Usage General Notes
| Entitlement Code | Service Era / Usage | General Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 01 | World War II | Historical reference for older vets |
| 05 | Entitlement Restored | Indicates previous usage and subsequent restored eligibility |
| 06 | Un-Remarried Surviving Spouse | Applies to spouses who meet VA eligibility criteria |
| 10 | Persian Gulf War / Post-9/11 Era | Common code for modern-era veterans and service members |
Understanding your code helps clarify whether you’re a first-time user or have reestablished entitlement after using a VA loan before.
The Bottom Line
Securing a VA Certificate of Eligibility is your first official step toward accessing the many benefits of a VA home loan. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to purchase another property, the COE provides concrete proof of your service-based entitlement, funding fee status, and how much of your VA benefits you can leverage.
Here are some final quick tips for making the most of your COE:
- Apply Early: Getting the COE before house hunting can speed up closing and prevent last-minute issues.
- Double-Check Your Documents: Ensure forms like DD-214 or your statement of service are accurate and up to date.
- Ask About Restoration: If you paid off a VA loan in full, look into restoring your entitlement for additional no-down-payment mortgages.
- Explore Exemptions: If you have a service-connected disability, confirm whether you qualify for a funding fee exemption.
- Stay Informed: Monitor any changes in VA guidelines or loan limits each year so you can optimize your benefits.
With the COE in hand, you’ll be positioned to enjoy the unique advantages of VA financing, potentially saving significant money on down payments, mortgage insurance, and interest. As you move forward in 2025 and beyond, keep your COE current, understand your entitlements, and work with a lender who knows the intricacies of VA loans. By doing so, you’ll make the most of your hard-earned benefits and secure a home for you and your family—now and in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a VA Certificate of Eligibility (COE)?
A VA Certificate of Eligibility (COE) is an official document from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs that verifies a veteran or service member’s eligibility for a VA-backed home loan.
2. How can I obtain a COE?
You can obtain a COE by applying online through the VA’s eBenefits portal, through a VA-approved lender, or by mailing a completed VA Form 26-1880 to the appropriate VA regional loan center.
3. Who is eligible for a COE?
Eligibility for a COE includes veterans, active-duty service members, certain National Guard and Reserve members, and some surviving spouses, provided they meet specific service requirements.
4. Does the COE guarantee loan approval?
No, the COE confirms eligibility for a VA loan but does not guarantee loan approval. Lenders will also assess credit, income, and other financial factors.
5. How long does it take to get a COE?
Obtaining a COE online or through a lender can be instantaneous if your records are complete. Mailing a request may take up to 6 weeks.
6. Can I use my COE more than once?
Yes, you can reuse your COE if you have remaining entitlement or have restored your entitlement after paying off a previous VA loan.
7. What documents are required to apply for a COE?
Required documents vary: veterans need a DD-214; active-duty members need a statement of service; National Guard/Reserve members need NGB Form 22 or retirement points statement; surviving spouses need the veteran’s death certificate, marriage license, and VA Form 21P-534EZ.
8. Does the COE expire?
No, a COE does not expire. However, if you obtained it while on active duty, you may need to get a new one after discharge.
9. What is shown on the COE?
The COE displays information such as entitlement amount, funding fee exemption status, and any prior VA loan usage.
10. What should I do if I lose my COE?
If you lose your COE, you can request a new one through the eBenefits portal, your lender, or by mailing VA Form 26-1880 to the VA.
