Service eligibility
Your COE documents eligibility based on service history and status. Active-duty, Veteran, Guard/Reserve, and surviving-spouse rules differ.
VA HOMEOWNERSHIP PREPARATION
Your benefit.
Your next home.
A practical preparation checklist for eligible service members, Veterans, and qualifying surviving spouses. Eligibility and lender approval are separate decisions.
Credit & income
VA does not set a universal minimum credit score. Lenders apply their own standards and review creditworthiness, income, debts, and residual income.
Property & occupancy
The home must satisfy applicable property requirements, and you generally must plan to live there. A VA appraisal is not a substitute for a home inspection.
YOUR PREPARATION CHECKLIST
Get organized.
Move with clarity.
Use this checklist to prepare for a lender conversation. Checking every box does not establish eligibility or approval.
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KNOW THE COSTS
No down payment
doesn’t mean no costs.
Many eligible borrowers can purchase without a down payment, depending on entitlement, appraisal, and lender requirements. Closing costs still apply. Some borrowers are exempt from the VA funding fee.
Purchase loan funding fee
For non-exempt borrowers; effective April 7, 2023.
| Down payment | First use | Subsequent use |
|---|---|---|
| Less than 5% | 2.15% | 3.3% |
| 5%–less than 10% | 1.5% | 1.5% |
| 10% or more | 1.25% | 1.25% |
Official VA resources.
Eligibility requirementsRequest a Certificate of EligibilityVA purchase loan requirementsVA credit underwriting guidance
Educational content reviewed October 6, 2026. Confirm current rules with VA and your lender. Quartermaster is not affiliated with VA and does not originate loans.