The Certificate of Eligibility (COE) is the official document that proves to a lender you have earned the right to use the VA home loan benefit. At Metropolitan Mortgage, we specialize in helping veterans navigate the COE process to make getting your certificate fast and stress-free.
What is a VA COE?
Before you can finalize a VA home loans in Kansas City, the Department of Veterans Affairs must verify your service history. The COE is the only document that confirms your eligibility and tells us how much “entitlement” you have available. This entitlement is the foundation that allows us to offer you a mortgage with no down payment and no monthly mortgage insurance.
Note: You do not need to have your COE in hand to start the pre-approval process. Our team can typically pull your certificate from the VA’s database in seconds.
Who is Eligible for a VA COE?
Eligibility is based on the length of your service, the era in which you served, and the character of your discharge. Whether you are a first-time homebuyer or looking for VA loans in Overland Park, general guidelines for 2025-2026 include:
- Active Duty: Currently serving and have at least 90 continuous days of active service.
- Veterans: Met minimum service requirements and received a discharge other than dishonorable.
- National Guard & Reserves: Typically requires 6 years of service, though you may qualify sooner under Title 32 orders.
- Surviving Spouses: Eligible if you are the un-remarried spouse of a Veteran who died in the line of duty or from a service-connected disability.
Three Ways to Get Your Certificate
- Through Metropolitan Mortgage (Recommended): As a VA-approved lender, we have access to the WebLGY system. We can often retrieve your COE instantly using just your Social Security number and date of birth.
- Online via VA.gov: You can apply through the VA’s portal. This is also where you can check if you qualify for VA funding fee exemptions based on service-connected disabilities.
- By Mail: You can print and mail VA Form 26-1880. Keep in mind that mail requests are the slowest method and can take several weeks to process.
Documentation You May Need
Depending on your status, you should have the following documents ready to ensure a smooth eligibility check:
- Veterans: A copy of your DD Form 214 (Member-4 copy) showing your character of service.
- Active Duty: A current Statement of Service signed by your commander.
- Guard/Reserves: An NGB Form 22 (Guard) or your most recent retirement points statement (Reserves).
Restoring Your Entitlement
Your VA benefit is a lifelong tool. If you have used a VA loan in the past, you can have your entitlement “restored” to use again for your next home. This is vital if you are considering a VA cash-out refinance or moving to a new primary residence.
For those looking to purchase a high-value property in the metro area, understanding the entitlement restoration rules and current VA jumbo loan limits is key to maintaining your $0 down advantage.