Wondering If You Qualify for a VA Loan? Here’s Everything You Need to Know!

by Skylar St. Pierre

Introduction:

One of the biggest misconceptions about VA loans is that only career military members qualify. This myth prevents many veterans, active-duty service members, and even surviving spouses from applying. But the reality is that the VA loan program has broad eligibility criteria, making it accessible to many more people than you might think.

In this blog, we’ll debunk the myth about who can qualify for a VA loan and explain how to determine your eligibility.

The VA Loan Myth

Myth: Only career military members qualify for VA loans, making them difficult to access for most veterans.
Fact: VA loans are available to veterans, active-duty service members, National Guard and Reserve members, and some surviving spouses. Eligibility depends on your service record, not on being a career military member. [Learn more about VA loan eligibility here.]

Who Qualifies for a VA Loan?

Veterans
Veterans who served on active duty and were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable are eligible for VA loans. The length of service required depends on when you served. For example, veterans who served after 1980 need to have served for 24 continuous months or the full period for which they were called to active duty.
Active-Duty Service Members
If you’re currently serving on active duty, you’re eligible for a VA loan after completing 90 days of continuous service. This makes VA loans accessible even to those who are still in the military.
National Guard and Reserve Members
National Guard and Reserve members are eligible for VA loans if they’ve completed at least six years of service, been called to active duty for at least 90 days, or were discharged due to a service-connected disability.
Surviving Spouses
The spouses of service members who died in the line of duty or from a service-related disability may also qualify for VA loans. In some cases, surviving spouses who have not remarried are exempt from paying the VA funding fee.

How to Determine Your Eligibility

To determine whether you qualify for a VA loan, you’ll need to obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (COE). The COE is a document that proves your eligibility to the lender, and it’s easy to get. You can apply online through the VA’s website, or your lender can help you obtain it. [Learn more about getting your COE here.]

Conclusion: VA Loan Eligibility Is More Inclusive Than You Think

VA loans aren’t just for career military members. Veterans, active-duty service members, National Guard and Reserve members, and surviving spouses may all qualify. With broad eligibility criteria and an easy application process, VA loans are accessible to many who may have previously believed they didn’t qualify.