How You Can Get a VA Loan Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
How To Get a VA Loan Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
Introduction
This guide will explain what a VA Certificate of Eligibility (COE) is, how to get one, and why it’s essential to have as you go through the VA loan process.
A certificate of eligibility is an official document that verifies your military service and establishes you as being eligible for the VA Home Loan Benefit. The COE is obtained from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) or your lender, and it’s typically one of the first steps you’ll take when applying for a VA mortgage.
Who Can Apply for a VA COE?
There are several types of people who can apply for a VA COE. Here are the most common ones:
- Veterans
- Active-duty service members
- Activated reservists
- National Guard members
Veterans and active-duty service members can apply for a VA COE if they are discharged from active military service under any condition other than dishonorable.
The VA will also issue a COE to veterans whose active-duty service was terminated due to a disability incurred in, or aggravated by, military service. In some cases, the VA may issue a COE to surviving spouses of veterans who died while on active duty. This benefit is not automatically granted; it must be requested by the spouse and approved by the VA.
Getting a VA COE is easy and will help you use your VA Home Loan Benefit.
There are 3 easy ways to obtain your Certificate of Eligibility.
- The easiest way is with a VA Approved Lender. They are able to use Web LGY to get it.
- To request a COE by mail, fill out a Request for a Certificate of Eligibility (VA Form 26-1880) and mail it to the address for your regional loan center. In Washington, Idaho, and Oregon your regional loan center is in Denver, Colorado. You can find the address on the last page of the form. Please note that mail requests may take longer than requesting a COE online or through your lender.
3. You can Request a COE on the E-Benefits Website, You may need your DS Logon Account to do so.
Eligible vs Qualified
If you have a VA Certificate of Eligibility you will still need to qualify for the home loan benefit. This will be done through your lender and is based on your credit, income, and assets.
You can start a pre-approval by clicking HERE
Conclusion
In summary, getting a VA Certificate of Eligibility (COE) is important to ensure you are eligible for the Home Loan Benefit. We hope this article has helped you understand how to get a certificate of eligibility and what it means for your home purchase process. If you have any questions or concerns about your specific situation, please contact us at 509.991.3493
