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VA Loan Requirements | Eligibility, Credit, Income & Documents

VA Loan Requirements • Clear & Simple

VA Loan Requirements: Eligibility, Documents, and Approval Basics

VA loans are designed to make homeownership easier for veterans, active-duty service members, and eligible spouses. Below are the core requirements lenders and the VA will review — plus a simple way to start your request.

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The 7 core VA loan requirements

These are the main areas reviewed when you apply for a VA loan purchase or refinance.

1) VA Eligibility + COE

You’ll need a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) showing you qualify based on service or spouse status.

2) Owner Occupancy

VA loans are for a primary residence. You must intend to live in the home (not an investment property).

3) Income & Employment

Stable income is key. Lenders verify employment history and ability to repay the loan.

4) Credit Review

The VA doesn’t set a minimum score, but lenders do. We help map the best path if credit is unique.

5) DTI + Residual Income

DTI matters, but VA residual income is a major factor — it’s about how much you have left after bills.

6) VA Appraisal

A VA appraisal confirms value and basic property standards (safety, soundness, and livability).

7) Acceptable Property Type

Most single-family homes, condos (VA-approved), and some multi-units may qualify if you occupy one unit.

✅ Often $0 down

✅ No monthly PMI

✅ Flexible guidelines

✅ Built for veterans

Document checklist (most common)

Exact items depend on your scenario — but this is the typical starting list.

ID: driver’s license + SSN verification
Income: paystubs (30 days), W-2s (2 years), or 1099s if applicable
Bank statements: typically 2 months (all pages)
Employment verification: employer contact / VOE
COE: or we can help retrieve it
DD214 (if needed) or proof of service
Rental history / housing payment history (if applicable)
Purchase contract (for purchases) or mortgage statement (for refinance)

Credit not perfect?

We review the full picture and build a path forward (not just a score).

First-time buyer?

We simplify steps, explain payments, and keep your file underwriting-ready.

Want faster approvals?

A clean checklist-driven file is the difference maker.

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Disclosures: NMLS #213875 • Terms depend on credit, income, assets, property and market conditions. Subject to underwriting approval. Not a commitment to lend. Equal Housing Lender.

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VA Loan Requirements FAQs

Is there a minimum credit score for VA loans?

The VA doesn’t set a minimum score, but lenders commonly use a credit standard. We help veterans understand options based on the full file.

Do VA loans require a down payment?

Many VA purchases can be done with $0 down depending on eligibility and lender guidelines.

Do VA loans have PMI?

VA loans do not require monthly PMI. A one-time VA funding fee may apply and can often be financed (some veterans are exempt).

What is residual income?

Residual income is how much money you have left after taxes and monthly obligations. It’s a key part of VA underwriting.

Disclosures: NMLS #213875 • Terms depend on credit, income, assets, property and market conditions. Subject to underwriting approval. Not a commitment to lend. Equal Housing Lender.

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