When starting the VA loan process, the Department of Veterans Affairs requires you to obtain proof of a veteran’s military service. The Certificate of Eligibility (COE) is the proof you need for the lender to know you have officially met the VAs military service requirement. While you do not need the COE to start the VA loan process, you may still be able to get a preapproval letter without it, but it will need to be obtained before closing.

What is a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)?

A Certificate of Eligibility (COE) is a document issued by the Department of Veteran Affairs that confirms that you are eligible for the VA loan program. In addition, the COE provides your lender with the necessary information about your entitlement and fees, such as if you are required to pay VA funding fees. Obtaining a COE does not guarantee you will get a VA loan. The COE shows that you have met the military service requirement and are eligible for a VA home loan benefit program. Your property and borrower qualification still has to meet the lender’s criteria.

How do I get a COE?

Even though you can get your COE online or by printing this form and mailing it in, your lender can also obtain it. In most cases, your lender can pull your COE through the VA information portal. The VA suggests that the average time to decide on your COE is approximately 30 days, but you may want to try around the 4–6-week mark to be safe. Your lender can help guide you through this step and verify that only necessary documentation is requested.

You can find additional information on what you need before applying by visiting the VA website.

To learn more about Trident Home Loans or speak to one of our VA loan specialists, call us at 850-343-0400 or go to our website tridenthomeloans.com.