A Guide to Getting Your VA Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
If you’re a veteran, active-duty service member, or eligible spouse looking to secure a VA-backed home loan, the VA Certificate of Eligibility (COE) is your gateway.
This essential document verifies your eligibility for VA loan benefits, such as zero down payment, no private mortgage insurance (PMI), and favorable interest rates.
While the COE alone doesn’t guarantee loan approval, it confirms you meet the service requirements.
This guide will walk you through what the COE is, who qualifies, how to obtain it, and its critical role in helping you secure your dream home.
What is the VA Certificate of Eligibility (COE)?
A VA Certificate of Eligibility (COE) confirms a person’s eligibility for benefits provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA):
- VA Loans: A COE is essential for applying for a VA loan, proving the applicant meets eligibility criteria. It outlines the VA’s loan entitlement, which guarantees the amount the VA will repay the lender if the borrower defaults.
- Education Benefits: The COE verifies eligibility for Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits, detailing remaining entitlements, usage time limits, and percentage eligibility.
- Other VA Benefits: A COE may also be required for additional VA programs.
The VA issues the COE after reviewing an application, which can be submitted online. Lenders often retrieve COEs directly from the VA database using the veteran’s Social Security number and date of birth.
Who is Eligible for a VA Loan?
Eligibility for a VA loan is primarily extended to U.S. military veterans, active-duty service members, certain National Guard and Reserve members, and some surviving spouses. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) sets specific service requirements to qualify, and generally, eligibility depends on the length and character of service:
- Veterans: Must have served a minimum period of active duty, typically 90 consecutive days during wartime or 181 days during peacetime. Discharge must be under conditions other than dishonorable.
- Active-Duty Service Members: Currently serving members are eligible after 90 continuous days of active duty.
- National Guard and Reserve Members: Those who have completed six years of service or been called to active duty for at least 90 days during wartime are eligible.
- Surviving Spouses: Spouses of service members who died in the line of duty or from a service-related disability may qualify for VA loan benefits.
For the most accurate eligibility confirmation, potential borrowers should obtain their Certificate of Eligibility (COE) directly through the VA or with lender assistance.
VA Loan Eligibility Calculator
How to Obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
Once you’ve confirmed your eligibility, follow one of these methods to request your COE:
Required Documents
- Veterans: DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge).
- Active-Duty Members: Statement of service signed by your commanding officer.
- National Guard/Reserves: DD-214 or Retirement Points Statement.
- Surviving Spouses: VA Form 21P-534EZ, death certificate, and marriage license.
Methods to Apply
| Method | Processing Time | Advantages |
|---|---|---|
| Online (eBenefits) | Instant | Fast and straightforward. |
| Through Your Lender | Minutes to Hours | Simplifies the process. |
| By Mail | 4–6 Weeks | Ideal for those without online access. |
Key Information on Your COE
The COE provides vital details for your lender to assess your VA loan application. Here’s what you’ll find:
- Funding Fee Status: Indicates whether you’re exempt (e.g., due to a service-connected disability) or required to pay the funding fee.
- Entitlement Code: Reflects your service period and benefit eligibility. For example, Code 10 represents Persian Gulf War service.
- Previous Loan Usage: Lists past VA loans to determine remaining entitlement.
Common Entitlement Codes
| Entitlement Code | Period of Service |
|---|---|
| 1 | World War II |
| 5 | Entitlement Restored |
| 6 | Un-remarried Surviving Spouse |
| 10 | Persian Gulf War |
Using Your COE for Second-Time VA Loans
Veterans can reuse their COE after paying off a prior VA loan, either fully restoring or partially using their entitlement.
Options for Reusing a COE
- Full Restoration: Available if the previous loan is paid in full, and the property is sold.
- Partial Entitlement: Can be used alongside an active loan, though a down payment may be required.
Consult your lender to confirm your entitlement status and maximize your benefits.
Special Eligibility Cases
Some unique scenarios allow eligibility outside standard requirements:
Title 32 vs. Title 10 Service for National Guard
- Title 32: Includes state-controlled but federally funded service, like disaster response.
- Title 10: Covers federally active-duty service, such as wartime deployments.
Veterans with Less-Than-Honorable Discharges
- May qualify through medical discharges, discharge upgrades, or Character of Service Determinations.
Understanding VA Loan Entitlement
Your COE includes basic and bonus entitlements, determining how much the VA will guarantee for your loan.
| Entitlement Type | Coverage | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Entitlement | Up to $36,000 | For loans under $144,000. |
| Bonus Entitlement | Homes over $144,000 | Enables no-down-payment financing. |
Frequently Asked Questions
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 confirms a veteran’s or service member’s eligibility for VA home loan benefits. It verifies that the individual meets service requirements for a VA-backed loan, which offers benefits like no down payment and competitive interest rates. While the COE confirms eligibility, loan approval also depends on financial factors like credit score and income.
How can I obtain my VA Certificate of Eligibility?
There are three primary ways to get your COE. You can apply online through the VA’s eBenefits portal for immediate results. VA-approved lenders can often retrieve it for you through the VA’s system, which is fast and convenient. You can also submit a VA Form 26-1880 by mail, but this process takes 4–6 weeks to complete.
What documents are required to apply for a COE?
The required documents depend on your service status. Veterans need a DD-214 form, while active-duty members need a signed statement of service. National Guard and Reserve members typically need NGB Form 22 or points statements, and surviving spouses must provide marriage and death certificates along with VA Form 21P-534EZ, if applicable.
Does the COE have an expiration date?
The COE does not expire, but if it was issued while you were on active duty, you may need an updated version after discharge to reflect your current status. This ensures the document is accurate when applying for a VA loan.
Can I use my COE for multiple VA loans?
You can use your COE for multiple VA loans, provided you restore your entitlement after each use. Full entitlement restoration typically requires selling the property and paying off the VA loan. Partial entitlement may be available, but it may require a down payment for subsequent loans.
What is the VA funding fee, and am I exempt?
The VA funding fee is a one-time charge to offset the cost of the VA loan program for taxpayers. The fee varies based on factors like loan usage and down payment amount. Veterans receiving compensation for a service-connected disability or surviving spouses of veterans who died in service are exempt from the funding fee.
What should I do if my COE application is denied?
If your application is denied, review the denial letter for specific reasons. Common issues include missing or incomplete documentation or failure to meet service eligibility requirements. You can appeal by providing additional evidence or documentation. For further help, contact your regional loan center or work with a VA-approved lender.
Can a surviving spouse obtain a COE?
Yes, surviving spouses may qualify for a COE if they meet specific conditions. They must be unmarried or remarried after age 57. The veteran must have died in service or from a service-related condition. Spouses must provide documents like marriage and death certificates and complete VA Form 21P-534EZ to apply.