VA Loan Eligibility Requirements
Who qualifies for a VA loan? Active duty, veterans, National Guard members, reservists, and surviving spouses. We'll verify your eligibility and obtain your Certificate of Eligibility (COE).
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VA Loan Eligibility Requirements in Michigan
VA loan eligibility is determined by your military service history, not your credit score or income. Understanding the service requirements and how to obtain your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) is the first step toward using this benefit to purchase or refinance a home in Michigan.
Service Requirements
Generally, you may be eligible for a VA loan if you meet one of the following service criteria: 90 consecutive days of active service during wartime; 181 days of active service during peacetime; more than 6 years of service in the National Guard or Reserves; or you are the surviving spouse of a service member who died in the line of duty or from a service-connected disability. Specific discharge requirements apply — an honorable discharge is required, and certain other-than-honorable discharges may be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
The Certificate of Eligibility is the document that confirms your VA loan benefit and shows lenders the amount of entitlement available. In most cases, your mortgage broker can obtain your COE electronically through the VA's automated system during the pre-approval process — you do not need to obtain it yourself before applying. If the automated system cannot verify your eligibility, you may need to provide your DD-214 (discharge papers) or a statement of service from your commanding officer.
Credit and Income Standards
The VA does not set a minimum credit score, but most VA lenders require a score of at least 580 to 620. The VA also uses a residual income standard rather than a strict DTI limit — this measures whether you have enough income left over after all monthly obligations to cover living expenses, which is a more borrower-friendly standard than the DTI ratios used by conventional lenders. Your loan officer will review your full financial picture to identify which VA lenders are the best fit for your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I qualify for a VA loan?
Eligibility is based on your military service history. Generally, veterans with 90+ days of active wartime service, 181+ days of peacetime service, or 6+ years in the National Guard or Reserves qualify. Your mortgage broker can check your eligibility and obtain your Certificate of Eligibility during the pre-approval process.
What is a Certificate of Eligibility and how do I get one?
The COE confirms your VA loan benefit and entitlement amount. In most cases, your mortgage broker can obtain it electronically through the VA's system during pre-approval. If needed, you can also apply through the VA's eBenefits portal or by submitting VA Form 26-1880 with your DD-214.
Do National Guard members qualify for VA loans?
Yes. National Guard and Reserve members who have completed at least 6 years of service, or who were called to active duty under federal orders and served the required time, are eligible for VA loans.
What credit score does VA require?
The VA itself does not set a minimum credit score. However, most VA lenders require a score of at least 580 to 620. Working with a mortgage broker gives you access to multiple VA lenders, increasing your chances of finding a program that fits your credit profile.
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