To qualify for a VA loan in 2026 you need a valid Certificate of Eligibility based on your military service, plus a lender's approval on credit, income, and the property. The VA sets no minimum credit score, though most lenders look for about 580 to 620, and the home must be your primary residence.
VA Loan Service Requirements
VA loan eligibility starts with your length and character of service. The minimum requirement depends on when and how you served. The table below summarizes the most common categories.
Minimum Service by Category
| Service category | Minimum service requirement |
|---|---|
| Current active-duty service member | 90 continuous days of active service |
| Veteran, Gulf War era (Aug 2, 1990 to present) | 24 continuous months, or the full period you were called to active duty (at least 90 days) |
| Veteran, 1980 to 1990 peacetime | 24 continuous months, or the full period called (at least 181 days) |
| Veteran, Vietnam, Korea, or WWII era | At least 90 total days of active duty |
| National Guard | 90 days of non-training active-duty service, or 6 creditable years with continued service or an honorable discharge |
| Reserves | 90 days of non-training active-duty service, or 6 creditable years in the Selected Reserve |
A qualifying discharge status is required. Some shorter service periods can still qualify if you were discharged for a service-connected disability or a hardship.
What Is a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)?
The Certificate of Eligibility is the document that proves to a lender you qualify for a VA loan based on your service history and duty status. It does not guarantee loan approval — it confirms you have the benefit and shows how much entitlement you have available.
You can request a COE online through the VA, or most VA-approved lenders can pull it for you in minutes during pre-approval. Having your COE ready early can speed up the rest of the process.
Credit Score and Income Requirements
The VA itself does not set a minimum credit score. Instead, each lender applies its own standard, and in practice most look for a score of about 580 to 620. A stronger score can earn you a lower rate, but the program is built to be more flexible than conventional lending.
Lenders also weigh two income measures: your debt-to-income ratio (your monthly debt payments compared with your gross income) and residual income, a VA-specific test that confirms you have enough money left over each month after major expenses. Steady, documented income matters more than a high salary.
The Occupancy Requirement
A VA loan must be used for a home you intend to live in as your primary residence, generally moving in within 60 days of closing. You cannot use a standard VA purchase loan to buy a pure investment property or vacation home, though a multi-unit property can qualify if you live in one of the units.
Surviving Spouse Eligibility
Certain surviving spouses are eligible for the VA loan benefit. This generally includes the spouse of a service member who died in the line of duty or from a service-connected disability and who is receiving Dependency and Indemnity Compensation, as well as the spouse of a service member who is missing in action or a prisoner of war. Eligible surviving spouses also receive an exemption from the funding fee.
How to Get Your Certificate of Eligibility
- Gather your service records. Veterans typically need a DD Form 214; current service members need a statement of service.
- Choose how to apply. Request the COE online at VA.gov, ask a VA-approved lender to pull it, or apply by mail.
- Confirm your entitlement. The COE shows whether you have full or partial entitlement available.
- Get pre-approved. Take your COE to a lender, who will verify your credit, income, and the home.
- Keep it on file. Your COE stays valid for future use as your entitlement is restored.
Frequently Asked Questions
What credit score do you need for a VA loan?
The VA sets no minimum credit score. Most lenders look for a score of about 580 to 620, though a higher score can help you qualify for a lower rate.
How long do you have to serve to qualify for a VA loan?
It depends on your era of service. Current service members generally need 90 continuous days, while many veterans need 24 continuous months or the full period they were called to active duty.
What is a Certificate of Eligibility?
The Certificate of Eligibility, or COE, is the document that proves to a lender you qualify for a VA loan based on your service. You can request it online or have your lender pull it.
Can a surviving spouse get a VA loan?
Yes. Certain surviving spouses qualify, including those receiving Dependency and Indemnity Compensation or whose spouse was missing in action or a prisoner of war. They are also exempt from the funding fee.
Can you use a VA loan for an investment property?
No. A VA loan must be for a primary residence you move into, generally within 60 days. You can buy a multi-unit home if you live in one of the units.