What's a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)?

A COE is the VA document that proves you qualify for the loan benefit. Your lender needs it. You can request it three ways: online at VA.gov, through your lender, or by mail with VA Form 26-1880. If you're on active duty, you'll need a statement of service signed by your commander, adjutant, or personnel officer. Veterans need their discharge papers (DD214). National Guard and Reserve members have a few extra document options depending on whether they were activated. I have my clients ask their lender to pull it, since it's the fastest route, and it generally takes about two days.