VA hub
The Certificate of Eligibility (COE): a walk-through
The COE is the VA's proof that you may use the home loan benefit. Most lenders ask for it. Here is how to get one.
What it is
The Certificate of Eligibility is a document from the VA that shows a lender you have earned the home loan benefit and, in many cases, how much of your entitlement is available. It is not a loan, an approval or a promise to lend.
Way 1: through a lender
Many lenders that make VA loans can request your COE for you from the VA. Often this is the quickest route. Ask the lender to do it, and ask what they need from you.
Way 2: online with the VA
You can ask for a COE yourself through the VA's own online service (the VA's eBenefits and va.gov pages). Start from the VA Home Loans page linked below, find the Certificate of Eligibility, and sign in to the VA's own site. AskResi never asks for your VA login.
Way 3: by mail
You can mail a completed VA Form 26-1880, Request for a Certificate of Eligibility for VA Home Loan Benefits, along with your papers. The form and its mailing address are on the VA's own site, so use the page linked below and not a copy.
Papers for service members on active duty
The VA asks for a statement of service signed by the unit or personnel office. It should show your name, social security number, date of birth, entry date, the duration of any lost time, and the name of the command providing the information. Check the VA's page for the current wording.
Papers for veterans
The VA asks for proof of separation from service, such as a DD Form 214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty). Check the VA's page for what it accepts for your period of service.
Papers for National Guard and Reserve members
The VA asks for evidence of service and, depending on the case, a statement of service, proof of good standing or a separation document. Which ones apply depends on your service, so read the VA's page for your situation.
Papers for surviving spouses
The VA has its own application and its own list of papers for surviving spouses, including the service member's record and proof of the relationship. Start from the VA Home Loans page and read what it asks for.
Good to know
A lender will ask how much entitlement is left on your COE. If you have used the benefit before, say so. If you cannot find your papers, the VA's page says how to ask for copies.
More VA topics
- How a VA loan worksA regular loan from a regular lender, with a government guarantee behind it.
- Who may be eligibleThe VA decides, and it looks at service, not at a person's background.
- The funding feeA one-time cost that helps keep the VA loan program running.
- Down payment and entitlementTwo words that come up in every VA loan conversation.
- The VA appraisal and the homeThe VA looks at the house as well as the buyer.
Educational only. AskResi is not a lender.