I have never quite understood why website owners who focus on VA Loans like to publish the full list of military service requirements for VA eligibility guidelines. I’m looking at a list now and my eyes blur over as I sift through all of the different possible scenarios where a Vet may be eligible. For me, if I were a Vet, this list only makes me want to move on to the next VA mortgage company website versus trying to find something on here where I fit it.
The key to your eligibility for a VA loan if you are prior military service is your discharge paperwork – DD214. If you have this document and know that you were honorably discharged then you are most likely eligible for a VA loan.
If you are considering a VA loan to purchase a home or to refinance your current home and you are prior military your next step should be to either go straight to the VA to see if you can get a certificate of eligibility or go to a VA mortgage lender and ask them to help you get your certificate of eligibility.
The same can be said if you are active military either full active duty or you are a reservist or national guard. If you have been in service for a certain amount of time then you may be eligible for a VA home loan. Your best bet is to contact a VA lender to have them walk you through the application process as well as proving your eligiblity for a VA mortgage.
Once you determine whether you are eligible for a VA mortgage, then you will have to qualify just like just about every other mortgage program out there. You will need to be employed, have good credit, and not owe too much in debt. For program loan specifics and to determine your exact mortgage qualification situation with a VA mortgage loan officer.
