If you are a veteran and considering getting a loan for a home, one of the things that you need to prepare is your certificate of eligibility (COE). All lenders are required to secure one from applicants during the VA loan process because it will serve as proof that you have met the set minimum for service requirement.

As simple a document as the COE is, it often confuses many people. Yet, you can’t skip getting one. Before you start wondering about which lender offers the best mortgage rates for veterans, you should first obtain your certificate of eligibility. Keep in mind that there are several ways you can get your COE. Here’s how you can get one:

1. Apply Online

First, you can go to the eBenefits Portal. You can then create an account or log in if you already have an existing one and follow the instructions there.

2. Request from Your Lender

One of the easiest ways to get your COE is by visiting your VA-approved lender and see if they can obtain your certificate of eligibility from their database. Many lenders will be happy to do this for their potential clients, and the process is rather simple.

3. Apply Through Mail

You can also print this form, then fill out all the required information and send it to the address indicated on the form.

What Are VA Entitlement Codes?

When you get your COE, you’ll see that your personal information details are all there, including your social security number and even your branch of service. You might also notice that there is a two-digit number there that might not make any sense to you. This actually gives lenders more information about your history in military service. Depending on the code, you may be exempt from the VA Funding Fee. Most borrowers who get this benefit are those who get compensation for a service-related disability, eligible surviving spouses of deceased veterans, and Purple Heart recipients.

Is the COE a Guarantee That You’ll Get a VA Loan?

No, it’s not a guarantee. The thing is that no one is guaranteed VA loan approval when they apply. The COE is merely a requirement and proof that you’ve completed the military service requirement that makes you qualified to apply for a loan.

What’s the Next Step After Getting the COE?

Once you have your COE, you can proceed with the application process for your VA home loan or VA direct.

The lender you have chosen will request an assessment of the house that will estimate its value at the time of the tie of the appraisal. However, this VA appraisal is in no way a guarantee of value. Then, the lender will review your credit history and income information to determine whether or not you’ll be approved for the loan. If you are approved, the lender will help you and your agent complete the process until you close on the house.

Conclusion

At this point, you now know that the COE is an important document that veterans need to obtain before they could apply for a loan. Once you have this ready, you can start the discussions with the lender regarding the mortgage rates and other things related to your loan. It would be best to have this out of the way before you start shopping for lenders so that the process of your application will be easier and faster!

If you are wondering where to find the best mortgage lender in Salt Lake City, Utah, you need not look elsewhere for your VA loan because Frontline Financial is here for you. Contact our mortgage professionals today to learn how we can assist you with your loan!