Who it is for
- Veterans checking first-time eligibility
- Active-duty buyers
- Surviving spouses
Typical VA Loan Eligibility Requirements requirements
| Service | 90 days active wartime, 181 days peacetime, or 6 years Guard/Reserve (rules vary) |
|---|---|
| COE | Certificate of Eligibility from the VA |
| Entitlement | Full entitlement = no VA loan limit in most cases |
| Occupancy | Primary residence |
Figures are typical market ranges as of October 2026. Actual terms depend on the lender, your credit, the property and the program, and are confirmed on your Loan Estimate or term sheet.
How it works
- Request your COE through the VA portal or your lender.
- Confirm entitlement amount.
- Get pre-approved.
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Pros and cons
Advantages
- Clear entitlement rules
- Reusable benefit
Trade-offs
- Funding fee for most first uses
Documents you’ll need
- DD-214 or statement of service
- COE
VA Loan Eligibility Requirements FAQ
How do I get my Certificate of Eligibility?
Through the VA eBenefits portal, by mail with VA Form 26-1880, or ask your lender to pull it.
Can I use a VA loan more than once?
Yes. Entitlement can be restored or reused; see our VA loan overview.
Who is eligible for a VA loan?
Veterans, active-duty service members, many National Guard and Reserve members with 6 years of service, and certain surviving spouses. Service length rules vary by era.
What is entitlement?
The VA’s promise to guarantee part of your loan. Full entitlement means no VA loan limit in most counties. Partial entitlement (when you still hold a prior VA loan) has limits.
How do I restore my entitlement?
Usually by selling the home and paying off the VA loan. A one-time restoration is also possible in some cases without selling.
Do I need a COE before I shop?
Not before shopping, but you need it before closing. Many lenders can pull it for you in minutes once you provide your DD-214 or service details.
Can Guard and Reserve members get VA loans?
Yes, generally with 6 years of service, or 90 days of active duty under certain call-ups. Rules have expanded in recent years.
Does VA eligibility expire?
No. Once earned, it does not expire. You can use it decades after service.
Can I be denied a VA loan with a COE?
Yes. The COE proves eligibility, but the lender still must approve your credit, income and the property. Eligibility is step one, not the whole approval.
Official sources
How VA Loan Eligibility Requirements compare
| VA Loan Eligibility Requirements | VA Loans | VA Purchase Loans | VA IRRRL (Streamline Refinance) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Veterans checking first-time eligibility | Veterans and active-duty service members | Eligible buyers purchasing a primary home | Current VA loan holders |
| Down payment | , | $0 with full entitlement | $0 with full entitlement | , |
| Credit | , | VA sets no minimum; lenders commonly look for 580–620 | , | , |
| Income docs | , | , | , | , |
Typical ranges, your Loan Estimate or term sheet confirms actual terms.
Coming soon: a 2-minute walkthrough from our loan team.
Related programs
VA Loans
A VA loan is a mortgage guaranteed by the Department of Veterans Affairs that lets eligible veterans, active-duty service members and certain surviving spouses buy with no down payment and no monthly mortgage insurance.
VA Purchase Loans
A VA purchase loan lets eligible borrowers buy a primary home with no down payment and no monthly mortgage insurance.
VA IRRRL (Streamline Refinance)
A VA IRRRL (Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan) replaces an existing VA loan with a new VA loan at a lower rate or more stable terms, usually with limited documentation and often no appraisal.