How long does it take to get a VA Certificate of Eligibility?

If you apply online through VA.gov, most veterans receive their COE instantly—within seconds to a few minutes. If your lender requests it on your behalf through the VA's automated system, it typically takes 1-2 business days. Applying by mail (VA Form 26-1880) takes the longest, usually 2-4 weeks for processing and delivery.

Do I need a COE before house hunting in Nevada?

While you don't technically need your COE to start looking at homes, getting it early is smart. Having your COE shows Nevada real estate agents and sellers that you're a serious, pre-qualified buyer. It also speeds up your loan approval since your lender won't need to wait for COE processing.

Is there a fee to get a Certificate of Eligibility?

No. The VA Certificate of Eligibility is completely free. The VA does not charge for issuing COEs, whether you get it online, through your lender, or by mail.

Can I use my COE more than once?

Yes! Your VA home loan benefit is reusable. Once you pay off a VA loan and sell the home, you can get a new COE and use your benefit again. There's no limit to how many times you can use it throughout your lifetime.

No, your COE does not expire as long as you remain eligible for VA loan benefits. However, lenders typically want a COE issued within the last few months to ensure your entitlement information is current.

What does available entitlement mean on my COE?

Your available entitlement is the amount the VA will guarantee on your loan. For most first-time VA loan users in Nevada, your full entitlement is available (currently up to $766,550 with no down payment in most Nevada counties).

How to Get Your VA Certificate of Eligibility Nevada 2025

3 Ways to Get Your VA Certificate of Eligibility

Choose the method that works best for you—all are 100% free

Fastest

1. Online (VA.gov)

Get your COE instantly through the VA's eBenefits portal or VA.gov. Most veterans receive their COE immediately—no waiting.

Time: Instant to 5 minutes

What you need: DD-214 or service details

Best for: Active duty & veterans with VA.gov account

Get COE on VA.gov

2. Through Your Lender

We can request your COE for you as part of your loan application. No extra work required on your end—we handle everything.

Time: 1-2 business days

What you need: Just your service details

Best for: Veterans who prefer help with paperwork

We'll Get Your COE

3. By Mail (VA Form 26-1880)

Submit VA Form 26-1880 by mail with required documents. This takes longer but works if you prefer traditional methods.

Time: 2-4 weeks

What you need: Form 26-1880 + DD-214

Best for: Those without internet access

Download Form 26-1880

Step-by-Step: Getting Your COE Online (Fastest Method)

Follow these simple steps to get your COE instantly through VA.gov

Create or Log into Your VA.gov Account

If you don't have a VA.gov account yet, create one at VA.gov. You'll need to verify your identity using ID.me, Login.gov, or DS Logon.

What you'll need to verify:

Driver's license or state ID
Social Security number
Phone number

Navigate to COE Request Page

Once logged in, go to Housing Assistance → Home Loans → Request a COE. Or use this direct link: VA.gov COE Request

Confirm Your Service Details

The VA system will pull your service records automatically. Review and confirm:

Your branch of service
Dates of service (entry and discharge)
Type of discharge (should be Honorable)

Submit Your Request

Click "Request Certificate of Eligibility". In most cases, the system generates your COE instantly. You'll see a confirmation page and can download/print your COE immediately.

Instant Approval for Most Veterans

About 90% of veterans receive instant COE online

Download & Save Your COE

Download your COE as a PDF and save it securely. You'll need to provide this document to your lender when applying for a VA home loan. Keep multiple copies—digital and print.

Need Help Getting Your COE?

If the online system doesn't work for you or if you need assistance, we're here to help. Our Nevada VA loan specialists can request your COE on your behalf—usually within 1-2 business days—at no charge to you.

Let Us Help with Your COE (702) 696-9900

What Documents Do You Need?

Required documentation varies by service type—here's exactly what you'll need

Veterans (Discharged)

DD Form 214 (Member Copy 4)

Shows your service dates and discharge type
VA Form 26-1880 (if by mail)

Request for Certificate of Eligibility

Don't have your DD-214?

Request from National Archives →

Active Duty Service Members

Statement of Service

From your commanding officer on letterhead
Service dates and status

Must show 90+ days active duty (or 90+ days for PCS if less than 90 days served)

Your unit's admin office can provide the Statement of Service

National Guard or Reserves

NGB Form 22 or 22A

National Guard Report of Separation and Record of Service
DD Form 214 (if applicable)

For any active duty service periods
Statement of Service

Showing 6+ years of service (unless you have qualifying active duty)

Surviving Spouses

Veteran's DD Form 214

Showing service-connected death
VA Form 26-1817

For Certain Surviving Spouses
DIC award letter

Showing Dependency and Indemnity Compensation

Pro Tip for Nevada Veterans

Save time: If you're getting a VA loan with us, we can request your COE using the VA's automated system (WebLGY) during your application. You won't need to track down documents yourself—we handle it as part of our service. Most COEs come back within 24-48 hours this way, and it's completely free.

VA Certificate of Eligibility FAQs

Common questions Nevada veterans ask about obtaining their COE

Ready to Use Your VA Benefit?

Once you have your COE, you're ready to start the VA loan process. Let's get you pre-approved and into your Nevada home.

Apply for VA Loan Now (702) 696-9900

How to Get Your VA Certificate of Eligibility in Nevada