Eligibility requirements for VA home loan programs 
Learn about VA home loan eligibility requirements for a VA direct or VA - backed loan. Find out how to apply for a Certificate of Eligibility COE to show your lender that you qualify based on your service history and duty status. Keep in mind that for a VA - backed home loan, you ll also need to meet your lender s credit and income loan requirements to receive financing. 

Can I get a Certificate of Eligibility for a VA direct or VA-backed home loan? 
You may be able to get a COE if you didn t receive a dishonorable discharge and you meet the minimum active - duty service requirement based on when you served. 

How do I apply for my COE? 
You can apply online right now. Go to eBenefits to apply Learn more about how to apply for your COE 

What if I don t meet the minimum service requirements? 
You may still be able to get a COE if you were discharged for one of the reasons listed below. You must have been discharged for one of these reasons : Hardship , or The convenience of the government , or Reduction in force , or Certain medical conditions , or A service - connected disability a disability related to your military service 

What should I do if I received an other than honorable, bad conduct, or dishonorable discharge? 
If you ve received one of these discharge statuses , you may not be eligible for VA benefits. There are 2 ways you can try to qualify : Find out how to apply for a discharge upgradeLearn about the VA Character of Discharge review process 

Can I get a COE as the spouse of a Veteran? 
You may be able to get a COE if you re the surviving spouse of a Veteran or the spouse of a Veteran who is missing in action or being held as a Prisoner of War POW. Find out how to apply for a COE as a surviving spouse 

Can I get a COE in any other situations? 
You may be able to get a COE if you meet at least one of the requirements listed below. At least one of these must be true. You: Are a U.S. citizen who se

user: I need eligibility requirements for VA home loan programs.

assistant: I can give you that information.   Learn about VA home loan eligibility requirements for a VA direct or VA - backed loan . Find out how to apply for a Certificate of Eligibility COE to show your lender that you qualify based on your service history and duty status . Keep in mind that for a VA - backed home loan , you ll also need to meet your lender s credit and income loan requirements to receive financing .

user: So my credit will still play into my loan approval?

assistant: Yes, Keep in mind that for a VA - backed home loan , you ll also need to meet your lender s credit and income loan requirements to receive financing .

user: What requirements must be met to use a COE I used before?

assistant: Have you sold the home you bought with the  prior loan and have paid that loan in full?

user: yes, I have sold and paid that loan in full.

assistant: You may be able to restore an entitlement you used in the past to buy another home with a VA direct or VA - backed loan

user: Can I apply for my COE online?

assistant: You can apply online right now 

user: Are there other situations where I can get a COE?

assistant: You must meet at least one of the listed criteria.