Applying for a VA home loan is a multi-step process that starts with determining the type of loan you want to apply for. Knowing the type of loan you need upfront can speed up the application process and help you find an approved lender.
The next step is to obtain a VA home loan pre-approval. You can apply for a Certificate of Eligibility in many ways. To start, you’ll need documents and information that support your eligibility, including:
Veterans: You must provide a copy of your discharge or separation papers (DD214)
Active Service Members: You must provide a statement of service that is signed by your personnel officer, commander, or adjutant that includes:
- Your full name
- Your date of birth
- Your Social Security number
- Your enlistment date
- Durations of any lost time
- The name of the person providing the information
Former Activated National Guard or Reserve Member: You must provide a copy of your discharge or separation papers (DD214)
Current Activated National Guard or Reserve Member: You must provide a statement of service that is signed by your personnel officer, commander, or adjutant that includes:
- Your full name
- Your date of birth
- Your Social Security number
- Your enlistment date
- Your total number of creditable service years
- Duration of any lost time
- The name of the person providing the information
Discharged National Guard Member That Was Never Activated: You must provide your Report of Separation and Record of Service (NGB Form 22) and your Retirement Points Statement (NGB Form 23)
Discharged Reserves Member That Was Never Activated: You must provide proof of your honorable service and a copy of your latest annual retirement points
Surviving Spouses of Veterans: You must provide:
- A completed Request of Determination of Loan Guaranty Eligibility – Unmarried Surviving Spouse (VA form 26-1817); or
- If you are not receiving DIC benefits, you must provide a completed Application for DIC, Death Pension, and/or Accrued Benefits, a copy of the veteran’s death certificate and a copy of your marriage license
Once you have your supporting documents, you can apply for a VA home loan pre-approval online or by mail. Alternatively, some approved lenders have the ability to obtain your COE for you using the VA’s Web LGY system.
Once you have been pre-approved, applying for a VA home loan is similar to any other loan process, unless you are applying for a direct loan. If you are applying for any form of VA-backed mortgage, you will need to work with an approved lender towards the purchase of a home, including through the appraisal and inspection portions of the process.
