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Eligibility

Certificate of Eligibility: What It Is, How to Get It

The COE proves your VA loan entitlement. We pull it for you in most cases — here's what it says and why it matters.

James O'Brien Updated May 14, 2026 5 min read

What the COE is

Your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) is the VA's official confirmation that you've earned VA loan benefits. It shows your entitlement amount, funding fee status (including any exemption), and any prior VA loan usage.

Lenders need the COE to close your file. In practice, you'll rarely see it before we do — we handle the request for you.

How we pull it

In most cases we can pull your COE automatically through the VA's WebLGY system in minutes — you don't need to request it yourself. All we need is your date of birth, social, and a rough service history.

If your service record is unusual (early discharge, National Guard with specific service history, surviving spouse), we may need supporting documents like your DD-214, NGB-22, or marriage/death certificates.

When you actually need it

Having your COE in hand isn't required to start shopping, but it strengthens your offer when you go under contract.

If you already have a COE from a prior loan, bring it — it saves us a step and confirms your remaining entitlement instantly.

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