How to Get a VA Certificate of Eligibility

A VA home loan is a fantastic opportunity for eligible service members, veterans, and their families. These VA-backed mortgages offer numerous benefits for those looking to buy or refinance their homes, including competitive interest rates, no down payment, and more. 

If you’re considering a VA home loan, one of the first steps to take is securing your Certificate of Eligibility (COE). This is a crucial document that confirms your eligibility for VA loan benefits. 

At Commander Mortgage, we know the VA home loan process can be overwhelming–but we’re here to help you navigate it every step of the way, starting with securing your COE. This helpful guide includes all the info you need, whether you’re a service member or a surviving spouse. 

What Is a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)?

You can consider your COE your ticket to VA loan benefits. This vital certificate provided by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs verifies to lenders that you meet the service requirements for a VA loan. It includes crucial information like your branch of service and entitlement code.

Who Qualifies for a COE?

In order to qualify for a COE–and, in turn, a VA loan–you must meet one of the following criteria:

• 90 consecutive days of active-duty service during wartime
• 181 consecutive days of active-duty service during peacetime
• 90 days in the National Guard and Reserves since August 2, 1990, or 6 years in the Selected Reserve or National Guard 
• Surviving spouses of service members who are missing in action, prisoners of war, or have died during active-duty service or as a result of a service-related injury

How to Get Your COE

If you meet the above criteria, congratulations! You’re one step closer to securing your VA loan. It’s time to get started on your application process by securing your COE–and it doesn’t have to be complicated. 

No matter your service background, there are three main ways to apply for a COE:

1. Online: Submit your application through the VA’s eBenefits portal.
2. Through a Lender: Most VA-approved lenders, like Commander Mortgage, can request your COE for you.
3. By Mail: Complete the appropriate VA form (such as VA Form 26-1880 for most applicants) and send it to the VA Loan Eligibility Center.

The documents you’ll need depend on your service status.

Required Documents for Your Certificate of Eligibility (COE)

The documents you’ll need to secure your COE depend on your service status. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need based on your specific situation:

For Veterans

Veterans will need discharge or separation papers, a.k.a. your DD Form 214. This document provides details about your military service, including your discharge status, and is essential for verifying your eligibility.

For Active-Duty Service Members

If you’re an active-duty service member applying for a COE, you’ll need a statement of service signed by your commanding officer, adjutant, or personnel officer. This statement must include:

• Your full name, Social Security number, and date of birth.
• Date you began active duty and any breaks in service.
• The name of the command issuing the statement.

For Surviving Spouses

Surviving spouses are required to provide a number of documents to obtain their COE, including:

• Marriage certificate: Proof of your marriage to the service member.
• Death certificate: Verification of the service member’s passing.
• VA Form 26-1817: Required if applying for eligibility as a surviving spouse.
• VA Form 21P-534EZ, if applying for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation.

For National Guard Members

The documents required for National Guard members depend on whether or not you’ve served active duty.

National Guard members who have served active duty require a DD Form 214 to confirm active-duty service and discharge status.

National Guard members who have not served active duty require the following:

• NGB Form 22: Report of Separation and Record of Service, which details your service record.
• NGB Form 23: Retirement Points Accounting Statement, which verifies the length of your service.
• A statement of service signed by your unit commander, adjutant, or personnel officer. This statement must include:some text
  • Your full name, Social Security number, and date of birth.
  • Dates of service and any breaks.
  • The name of the command issuing the statement.

What if I can’t find my service records?

If you’re struggling to find any of the documents you need to obtain your COE, don’t fret. The VA can help retrieve lost DD Form 214 records through their eBenefits portal or by contacting a regional office. You can also request them through the National Archives.

How long does it take to get a COE?

Finally, you’re likely wondering how long you’ll have to wait once you’ve requested your COE. After all, you’re probably eager to get started on the homebuying process! 

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Luckily, when requested online or through a lender, you may be able to get your COE within minutes.

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Mailing your application, on the other hand, could take several weeks.

Ready to Start Your VA Loan Journey?

At Commander Mortgage, it’s our pleasure and our privilege to serve those who have served us. We’re committed to supporting service members, veterans, and their families throughout the entire VA home loan process–starting with a COE.

Get started today! Contact Commander Mortgage for personalized assistance and make your VA loan journey as smooth as possible.

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