Buy with your VA benefit
Eligibility and the Certificate of Eligibility
What a COE proves, and what the lender still decides.
7 minute read
What the COE does
- A Certificate of Eligibility (COE) shows your lender that you qualify for the VA home loan benefit.
- Service requirements differ by service period and for Guard and Reserve members. VA decides whether you qualify for a COE.
Source: VA home loan eligibility / Certificate of Eligibility; Buying a home with a VA-backed loan
What the COE does not do
- A COE is not loan approval. You must also meet VA and lender standards for credit, income and other requirements.
- Vanguard cannot determine your eligibility. Request your COE through VA and ask your lender about the rest.
Source: VA Purchase Loan; VA home loan eligibility / Certificate of Eligibility
Sources
Official material this lesson draws on. Vanguard's explanation is educational; current official requirements govern.