Whos Eligible for a VA Home Loan?

A Legacy Since 1944

The VA loan program was created in 1944 through the GI Bill to help veterans, active-duty service members, and eligible surviving spouses buy homes and build generational wealth. Its still one of the most powerful loan options available today.

General Eligibility Checklist

You may be eligible for a VA home loan if you meet one of the following service requirements:

- 90 days of active-duty service during wartime

- 181 days of active-duty service during peacetime

- 6 years of service in the National Guard or Reserves

- Youre a surviving spouse of a service member who died in the line of duty or from a service-connected condition

Discharge Status

To qualify, you must have received a discharge status of Honorable or General Under Honorable Conditions.

Other types of discharges may make you ineligible unless upgraded.

Active Duty, Guard, and Reserve Members

- Active-duty service members are typically eligible after 90 days of continuous service.

- Guard and Reserve members are usually eligible after 6 years, but could qualify sooner if Title 10 federal activation orders apply.

Surviving Spouses

If youre the surviving spouse of a veteran who died in the line of duty or due to a service-related injury or illness, you may be eligible for VA loan benefits, especially if you havent remarried. A Certificate of Eligibility (COE) will be required.

Past Financial Hardships?

Have a foreclosure or short sale in your past with a VA loan? That doesnt automatically disqualify you. You may still be eligibleespecially if you have remaining entitlement.

Final Thought

If youve servedor love someone who hasyou may qualify for a VA home loan. Its a benefit that helps make homeownership more accessible by reducing financial barriers. Talk to a VA-savvy lender or your real estate