VA Form 26-1880
Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
Proves to a lender you qualify for a VA home loan. Required before buying a home with VA backing.
Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
In Plain English
Proves to a lender you qualify for a VA home loan. Required before buying a home with VA backing.
Requests a Certificate of Eligibility verifying your qualification for a VA-backed home loan.
Step-by-Step Guide
How to file 26-1880
When to use this form
When you want to buy a home using a VA-backed loan. Your lender needs this certificate to verify your eligibility. VA home loans offer no down payment and no private mortgage insurance (PMI).
Required
- ✓DD-214
Proof of service and discharge status.
Recommended (if applicable)
- +Statement of service (if still active duty)
Active duty members need a signed statement from their commander.
You'll need to provide
- ✓Military service dates and branch
- ✓Whether you've used VA loan benefits before
- ✓Property information (if you have a specific home in mind)
Your lender can often request this for you through the VA's online portal. You can also request it yourself on VA.gov.
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