While this seems like a simple process, unfortunately it’s not completely standardized. Depending on which category you fall under, you may be able to apply for a Department of VA Certificate of Eligibility for a VA home loan on line, at the bank, or by mail. In some cases you may only be able to apply by mail.
Veterans, active duty service members, Reservists and National Guard members who served or currently serve on active duty can apply either online, by mail or via the lender. You can apply online by visiting the Veterans Information Portal at http://vip.vba.va.gov/ and following the instructions listed there.
In most cases applying for eligibility for a VA mortgage can also be accomplished through your lender. Be sure to ask in advance what paperwork you’ll need to get this done through your bank, or visit the Department of Veterans Affairs official site (www.va.gov) for the required “evidence” needed to apply at the bank.
You can also apply by mail by filling out VA Form 26-1880: http://www.vba.va.gov/pubs/forms/vba-26-1880-ARE.pdf
Mail it to the address specified on the form.
Reservists and National Guard members who never served on active duty can apply for VA Certificate of Eligibility for a VA home loan in the same way as mentioned above, though rules for “evidence” may be different.
Surviving spouses of those who died while on duty or as a result of that military service don’t have all the options listed above. At press time, the only available means of applying for a surviving spouse is to submit a VA Form 26-1880 by mail. The form is available online for download but surviving spouses can also request a form be mailed to you by calling 1-888-244-6711 and following the instructions given.
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