How do you verify that you are eligible for a VA loan? You gather the evidence, submit it to the VA, and receive a Certificate of Eligibility (COE). The COE verifies to the lender that you qualify for a VA-backed loan.
How do you verify that you are eligible for a VA loan? You gather the evidence, submit it to the VA, and receive a Certificate of Eligibility (COE). The COE verifies to the lender that you qualify for a VA-backed loan.
This page describes the evidence you submit to verify your eligibility for a VA home loan and how to submit the evidence and obtain a COE.
Evidence Needed
The evidence you need depends on the nature of your eligibility. Consult the table below to determine your category and the evidence you will need when applying.
| Category | Evidence to Apply |
| Veteran, Current or former National Guard or Reserve member who has been activated Federal active service | DD form 214 - required ot have a copy showing the character of service (item 24) and the narrative reason for separation (item 28). |
| Active Duty Servicemember | A current statement of service:
|
| Current National Guard or Reserve member who has never been Federal active service | Statement of service:
|
| Discharged member of the National Guard who has never been activated for Federal active service | NGB Form 22, Report of Separation and Record of Service, for each period of National Guard service -OR- NGB Form 23, Retirement Points Accounting, and proof of the character of service |
| Discharged member of the Selected Reserve who has never been activated for Federal active service | Copy of your latest annual retirement points statement and evidence of honorable service |
| If you are a Surviving Spouse in Receipt of DIC (Dependency & Indemnity Compensation) benefits |
If you're already receiving Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), you need to submit a VA form 26-1817 and the veteran's DD214 (if available.) Put the Servicemember's Social Security number on all documents. |
| If you are a Surviving Spouse and are not receiving DIC (Dependency & Indemnity Compensation) benefits |
Submit the following to the appropriate Compensation and Pension office:
|
Applying for a COE
After gathering the evidence you need, you can apply for your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) in the following ways.
Servicemembers, Veterans, and National Guard and Reserve Members
To get your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) online, please go to the VA's VETS.GOV website.
Most lenders have access to the Web LGY system. This Internet-based application can establish eligibility and issue an online COE in a matter of seconds. Not all cases can be processed through Web LGY - only those for which VA has sufficient data in our records. However, Veterans are encouraged to ask their lenders about this method of obtaining a certificate.
Surviving Spouses
Spouses can get the necessary forms on the VA's VETS.GOV website or apply through their lender as above.
Take the Next Step
If you're ready to move forward, or just want more information, the first step is to get no-obligation rate quotes.