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What Is a VA Certificate of Eligibility?

What you'll learn: The eligibility requirements for a VA COE and how to obtain one

EXPECTED READ TIME:2 MINUTES

A Certificate of Eligibility (COE) is a document generated by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (the VA) that will inform your VA loan lender that you meet the necessary VA eligibility requirements to obtain a VA loan. In addition, it also provides your lender with the necessary information in terms of your entitlement and fees. Entitlement is the total amount the VA will guarantee for your loan.

Am I eligible for a VA loan COE?

For complete eligibility details, make sure to check the VA website. To get started, you can first see if you meet one or more of the following general guidelines:

  • Any veteran who served after August 2, 1990 is eligible if they served for 24 continuous months.
  • Anyone who is currently on active duty is eligible after 90 continuous days of service.
  • Members of the National Guard and Reservists become eligible after 90 continuous days of service.

What do I need to apply for a COE?

  • If you are a veteran, you will need a copy of your discharge papers (DD214).
  • If you are an active-duty Service Member, you will need a statement of your service signed by your commander or personnel officer with the following:
    • Full name
    • Social Security number
    • Date of birth
    • Date you entered duty
    • What the duration of any lost time in service was (if any)
    • Name of the command supplying the information
  • If you are a current or former activated member of the National Guard or Reserve you will need a copy of your discharge papers (DD214).

You can find additional information on what you'll need before you apply, as well as actually apply, on the VA website.

Does a VA loan COE expire?

Your certificate will never expire. However, if you obtained your certificate while on active duty, and you are now a veteran, you’ll need to apply for a new COE.

How long does it typically take to obtain a VA COE?

The VA suggests that the average time to make a decision on your COE is approximately 30 days. It might be a good idea to budget 4-6 weeks to be safe. Starting to think about the entire process of buying a home will help you get better prepared before you begin your home search and pre-approval process.

If I get a COE, am I guaranteed to get a VA loan?

Despite the fact that a VA loan is a loan backed by the VA, obtaining a COE does not guarantee that you will qualify for a VA loan. A COE is a document that simply outlines that you have met the eligibility requirements to obtain a VA loan, but you still need to apply through your financial institution and meet its credit criteria — including credit score, income, and debt to income ratio (DTI).

How do I get a COE?

You can apply directly for a COE online or print this form directly from the VA website and mail it in.

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1Rates are updated daily at 10:15am EST. The advertised rates and points are subject to change. The information provided is based on discount point, which equals percent of the loan amount, and assumes the purpose of the loan is to purchase a property with a 30-year, conforming, fixed-rate loan. Loan amount of $450,000; loan-to-value ratio of 95%; credit score of 760; and DTI of 18% or less. The property is an existing single-family home and will be used as a primary residence. The advertised rates are based on certain assumptions and loan scenarios, and the rate you may receive will depend on your individual circumstances, including your credit history, loan amount, down payment, and our internal credit criteria. Other rates, points, and terms may be available. All loans are subject to credit and property approval.