ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

Who Qualifies for a COE?

Service requirements vary by service branch and era. Most veterans, active-duty members, and qualifying spouses are eligible.

Active Duty

  • 90 continuous days of active service (wartime)
  • 181 days (peacetime)
  • Currently serving 90+ days

Veterans

  • Honorable discharge required
  • Minimum 90 days active duty (wartime)
  • 181 days (peacetime)

National Guard/Reserves

  • 6 years in Guard or Reserves
  • 90 days active duty (if called)
  • Honorable discharge

Surviving Spouses

  • Spouse died in service or from service-connected disability
  • Receiving DIC payments
  • Unremarried (or remarried after age 57)

Certain Others

  • US Public Health Service officers
  • Cadets at service academies
  • Certain merchant mariners (WWII)

Not Sure If You Qualify?

We can quickly verify your eligibility and help you obtain your COE during the pre-approval process.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

COE Questions

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REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

What You'll Need for Your COE

The documents required depend on your service history. Most veterans only need their DD-214 discharge papers.

DD-214 (Veterans)

Copy of your discharge paperwork showing character of service. DD-214 Member Copy 4 is best.

Statement of Service (Active Duty)

Signed by commander showing dates of service if you're currently serving.

NGB 22 (National Guard)

Report of Separation and Record of Service for Guard members.

Marriage/Death Certificate (Surviving Spouses)

Proof of marriage to veteran and veteran's death certificate.

Step-by-Step: Apply Online

1

Create Account

Go to VA.gov and create an account using DS Logon, ID.me, or Login.gov credentials.

2

Navigate to Home Loans

Find "Request a VA Home Loan COE" under VA Benefits and Health Care section.

3

Enter Service Details

Provide your service dates, discharge status, and branch information.

4

Upload Documents

Upload DD-214 or other required service documents (if VA doesn't have them on file).

5

Submit & Download

Submit application. If approved instantly, download your COE immediately. Otherwise, VA will mail it within 10 business days.

Apply on VA.gov
VA CERTIFICATE OF ELIGIBILITY

Get Your VA Certificate of Eligibility
Fast & Easy

Your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) proves to lenders you qualify for VA loan benefits. Learn how to obtain your COE in minutes online or let us help you get it.

Get Pre-Approved (We'll Get Your COE)

Get COE in 24 Hours or Less

Apply for pre-approval and we'll obtain your Certificate of Eligibility as part of the process - completely free.

3 Ways to Get Your COE

1. Online (eBenefits)

Fastest method. Log into VA's eBenefits portal or VA.gov with your DS Logon or ID.me account. Get instant COE if you meet requirements.

Apply on VA.gov →

2. Through Your Lender

We obtain your COE for you during pre-approval using VA's WebLGY system. Zero hassle on your end.

3. Mail VA Form 26-1880

Download Form 26-1880, complete it, and mail with discharge papers (DD-214) to your VA Regional Loan Center. Takes 2-6 weeks.

Download Form →