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Real Estate

Fill out VA Form 26-1880 (Request for Certificate of Eligibility) online

VA Form 26-1880 is used by veterans, active-duty service members, and eligible surviving spouses to request a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) for a VA-backed home loan. The COE verifies to lenders that you meet the service requirements for a VA loan, which offers benefits like no down payment and no private mortgage insurance.

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VA Form 26-1880 (Request for Certificate of Eligibility) - simplepdf.com
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How to fill out VA Form 26-1880 (Request for Certificate of Eligibility)

1

Enter personal information

Fill in your name, date of birth, Social Security number, VA file number (if any), and contact information.

2

Provide military service details

Enter your branch of service, service number, and dates of active duty. If you are a surviving spouse, provide the veteran's information.

3

Describe the loan request

Indicate whether this is for a purchase, refinance, or other loan type. Enter the property address and estimated loan amount if known.

4

Attach supporting documents and submit

Include your DD-214 (separation papers), statement of service letter, or other proof of eligibility. Sign, date, and submit to the VA or through your lender.

About VA Form 26-1880 (Request for Certificate of Eligibility)

Who needs this form

Veterans, active-duty service members, National Guard or Reserve members, and eligible surviving spouses who want to obtain a VA-backed home loan. You need a COE to prove your entitlement to VA loan benefits.

Where to submit

Submit online through VA.gov, through your VA-approved lender (who can often obtain the COE electronically), or by mail to the VA Regional Loan Center that serves your state.

Source and content freshness

Official source (www.vba.va.gov)
  • Filing deadlines may shift for weekends and holidays. Verify due dates with official instructions.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Not including proof of military service (DD-214 for veterans, statement of service for active duty)
  • Leaving the loan amount or property address blank when already under contract
  • Confusing prior VA loan usage - failing to account for previously used entitlement
  • Not signing the form or providing an incomplete Social Security number

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Can my lender get the COE for me?
Yes. Most VA-approved lenders can obtain your COE electronically through the VA's Web LGY system, often within seconds. You can also request it yourself online at VA.gov or by mailing Form 26-1880. Many borrowers find it fastest to have their lender pull it during the loan application process (URLA Form 1003).

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