Certificate of Eligibility Guide
Your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) is the key to accessing your VA home loan benefits. Learn how to obtain yours quickly and easily.
What is a Certificate of Eligibility?
Your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) is an official document from the VA that confirms you qualify for a VA home loan benefit. It shows lenders that you meet the service requirements and are entitled to use this valuable benefit.
Required for All VA Loans
Every VA loan application requires a valid COE to proceed.
Shows Your Entitlement
Displays how much of your VA loan benefit you have available to use.
Who Can Get a COE?
Veterans
- Served 90 days on active duty during wartime
- Served 181 days on active duty during peacetime
- Served 6 years in the National Guard or Reserves
- Officers who served the required time based on when they started
Active Duty Service Members
- Currently serving and have completed 90 days on active duty
Surviving Spouses
- Spouse of a service member who died in the line of duty
- Spouse of a veteran who died from a service-connected disability
How to Get Your COE
Online (Fastest)
Apply through VA.gov using your eBenefits or ID.me account. Get instant results if you qualify.
Through Your Lender
Your VA-approved lender can request your COE as part of the loan application process.
By Mail
Submit VA Form 26-1880 with required documents to your VA Regional Loan Center.
Required Documents
For Veterans
- DD Form 214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge)
- Statement of Service (if still on active duty)
- Points statement (for National Guard/Reserves)
For Surviving Spouses
- Marriage certificate
- Death certificate
- VA rating decision (if applicable)
Understanding Your COE
Basic Entitlement
Your basic entitlement is $36,000. This is the amount the VA guarantees to your lender if you default on your loan.
Bonus Entitlement
For loans over $144,000, you may have additional "bonus" entitlement available, allowing you to borrow more without a down payment.
Full vs. Remaining Entitlement
- Full Entitlement: You've never used your VA loan benefit or have paid off a previous VA loan and sold the property
- Remaining Entitlement: You have a current VA loan or have used part of your benefit
Common Issues and Solutions
Missing Military Records
If you don't have your DD-214, you can request it from the National Personnel Records Center or through VA.gov.
Character of Discharge Issues
If you received an other-than-honorable discharge, you may still qualify. Contact the VA to discuss your specific situation.
National Guard/Reserve Service
You'll need a points statement showing 6 years of qualifying service and at least 50 points per year.