The VA Loan is available to current and former members of the U.S. Military. There are no prepayment penalties nor mortgage insurance.

These loans are backed by the U.S. Department of Veteran's Affairs and made by local lenders of mortgages throughout the country. The first step is to prove you've met the VA's requirements for military service.

This is done using a document called the Certificate of Eligibility (COE). This is required by VA to be included in loan approvals for VA-backed loans. A lender is the best way to get your COE.

Request A COE Through A Lender

All VA-approved Lenders have access to a lender-only VA website. This site is not available to consumers. Most often, they can get your COE within minutes of you applying.

Online Application For A Certificate Of Eligibility

You can also apply online for a COE using the VA's eBenefits portal. Register now if you don't have an account. To get help with the site, contact the VA's eBenefits Help Desk at 800-983-0937

Mail Your Application For A COE

The VA allows you to request a COE through the mail. To do this, fill out VA form 26-1880 and send it in. It can take several days, but it's worth considering the online option. This document contains all the required information for the VA, even if the process is completed online.

The COE is for each eligible VA borrower, whether they are a veteran or active duty service member or current or former members of the National Guard or Reserve. May have differing requirements.

After receiving your COE, the VA lender will approve and lend to you in the same manner as other borrowers. Therefore, all of your tax returns, pay slips, bank statements, as well as any other information requested by the lender should be provided.

For experienced VA loan officers, the COE process can be very straightforward. First, you'll need to search for a lender specializing in VA loans in your local area.