VA Home Loans

After establishing that you are eligible, you will need a Certificate of Eligibility (COE). The COE verifies to the lender that you are eligible for a VA-backed loan. This page describes the evidence you submit to verify your eligibility for a VA home loan and how to submit the evidence and obtain a COE.

Evidence Needed

The evidence you need depends on the nature of your eligibility. Consult the table below to determine your category and the evidence you will need when applying.

• signed by (or by the direction of):
  the adjutant, personnel office, or commander of the unit or higher headquarters
• showing:
  Your full name
  Social Security Number
  Date of birth
  Entry date on active duty
  The duration of any lost time
  The name of the command providing the information

• signed by (or by the direction of):
  the adjutant, personnel officer or commander of your unit or higher headquarters
• showing:
  Your full name
  Social Security Number
  Date of birth
  Entry date on duty
  The total number of creditable years of service
  The duration of any lost time
  The name of the command providing the information

Submit VA form 26-1817 and veteran’s DD214 ( if available)

Include veteran’s and surviving spouse’s social security number on the 26-1817 form

Submit the following to the appropriate Compensation and Pension office:

- DD214 (if available)

- Death Certificate or DD Form 1300 – Report of Casualty

- Please find the mailing address for your state to send the VA 21-534 on the following link. PMC States

Applying for a COE

After gathering the evidence you need, you can apply for your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) in the following ways.

Servicemembers, Veterans, and National Guard and Reserve Members

Apply online

To get your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) online, please go to the eBenefits portal. If you already have login credentials, click the Login box, and if you need login credentials, please click the Register box and follow the directions on the screen. If you need any assistance please call the eBenefits Help Desk at 1-800-983-0937. Their hours are Monday-Friday, 8am to 8pm EST.

Apply through your lender

Most lenders have access to the Web LGY system. This Internet-based application can establish eligibility and issue an online COE in a matter of seconds. Not all cases can be processed through Web LGY - only those for which VA has sufficient data in our records. However, Veterans are encouraged to ask their lenders about this method of obtaining a certificate.

Apply by mail

Surviving Spouses

Spouses can take the VA form 26-1817 to their lender for processing (see Apply Through Lender above) or may mail the 26-1817 and DD214 (if available) to the following address:

If you can't print the form, just call 1-877-827-3702 and follow the prompts for Eligibility and we will mail the form to you.