What Paperwork Do I Need for a VA Loan?

If you are considering purchasing a home using your VA loan, you’ll first need to know which forms and documents are required to begin the loan qualification process. While the approval process for your loan shouldn’t take a long time, having the right paperwork ready for your VA loan application will speed up the process.

Military Documents

The approval process will begin with your military documents. These include:

Certificate of Eligibility

The quickest way to get your Certificate of Eligibility is through your eBenefits portal. 

You can also apply by mail by downloading VA Form 26-1880 (Request for a Certificate of Eligibility) and mailing it to the address that’s listed on the form.

Statement of Service

If you’re on active duty, you’ll need to provide your lender with a Statement of Service from your commanding officer. This verifies your employment status in the military and must be on official letterhead. To get this documentation, you’ll need to contact your local military personnel office, headquarters, or commanding officer. 

Form DD-214

For service members who have been discharged, a Form DD-214 is required as proof of service. You should have received this if you have left the military. If you don’t have the form, follow these instructions from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to request it.

Form 26-8937

If you receive VA disability benefits, you will need to provide this form, which verifies the VA benefits you are receiving. You can download the form here. Fill it out and follow the instructions on the form.

Personal Information

Documents containing your personal information will be required. These can include:

• Your name, current address, phone number, and birthdate
• A home address history for the past two years
• Your educational history
• Copy of a valid government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license or passport
• Social Security number
• Number of dependents and their ages
• Details of your nearest relative

These documents should be relatively easy to gather, but you should have them available to prevent potential delays.

Income and Employment Information

If you are no longer an active service member, you will need to provide information about your current employment status and income. This type of documentation can include:

• Your last two pay stubs
• Proof of employment
• A letter from your current employer stating your position and salary

You should seek to purchase a home that you can comfortably pay for with your regular earnings. If you are married, your significant other can provide their income and employment details as well.

Financial and Tax Information

Finally, all applicants for a VA loan will need to provide the below financial and tax information, if applicable.

• Your two most recent federal tax returns and W-2s
• Quarterly statements for all stocks, bonds, and mutual funds
• Statements from your 401k or other long-term assets
• A credit check and credit history report

Are You Seeking a VA Home Loan?

If you’re in the market for a new home and qualify for a VA loan, reach out to Hero Home Loans to start the approval process. We have significant expertise in helping people obtain the lending they need and are eager to help you, too!