The VBA VA 26-1880 form is an essential document used by veterans to apply for a Certificate of Eligibility for a VA home loan. This form serves as a critical step in accessing benefits designed to assist veterans in securing housing. To get started on your application, please fill out the form by clicking the button below.
The VBA VA 26-1880 form serves as a crucial tool for veterans seeking to access educational benefits under the Montgomery GI Bill and other related programs. This application is not merely a bureaucratic requirement; it represents a pathway for veterans to pursue higher education, vocational training, and other professional development opportunities. By completing this form, veterans can demonstrate their eligibility for benefits, ensuring they receive the support they deserve after their service. The form requires specific information, including personal details, service history, and educational aspirations, allowing the Department of Veterans Affairs to assess each application accurately. Understanding the nuances of the VA 26-1880 form is essential for veterans and their families, as it can significantly impact their educational journey and future career prospects. With the right guidance, navigating this form can lead to a wealth of opportunities for personal and professional growth.
OMB Control No. 2900-0086
Respondent Burden: 15 minutes
Expiration Date: 10/31/2025
FOR VA USE ONLY
MAIL COMPLETED APPLICATION TO THE
COE REF. NO.
REGIONAL LOAN CENTER OF
REQUEST FOR A CERTIFICATE OF ELIGIBILITY
JURISDICTION. SEE PAGE 4 FOR
REGIONAL LOAN CENTER ADDRESSES.
IMPORTANT: For faster processing, VA encourages you to visit www.va.gov for your Certificate of Eligibility, or contact the lender of your choice to submit an application electronically. In most cases, an eligibility determination can be made instantly.
NOTE: Please read Privacy Act Information on page 2 before completing this form. If additional space is required, attach a separate sheet.
SECTION I: VETERAN'S IDENTIFYING INFORMATION
1. NAME OF VETERAN TO APPEAR ON COE (First, Middle Initial, Last)
2A. DID YOU SERVE UNDER ANOTHER NAME?
YES (If "Yes," complete Item 2B)
NO (If "No," skip to Item 3)
2B. OTHER NAME(S) USED DURING MILITARY SERVICE (If different from name shown in Item 1)
3.CURRENT MAILING ADDRESS (Number and street or rural route, P.O. Box, City, State, and ZIP Code)
4. DATE OF BIRTH (MM/DD/YYYY)
5. SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER
6. SERVICE NUMBER (If applicable)
7. TELEPHONE NUMBER (Include Area Code)
8. EMAIL ADDRESS (If applicable)
9A. WERE YOU DISCHARGED, RETIRED, OR SEPARATED FROM SERVICE BECAUSE OF DISABILITY?
9B. VA CLAIM NUMBER (If known)
YES (If "Yes," complete Item 9B)
NO
SECTION II: MILITARY SERVICE INFORMATION (See Instructions For Proof of Service on Page 3)
10A. ARE YOU CURRENTLY ON ACTIVE DUTY?
10B. ARE YOU A PURPLE HEART RECIPIENT?
10C. DO YOU HAVE A PRE-DISCHARGE CLAIM PENDING WITH
VA?
YES
YES (If "Yes," see instructions, page 3)
NO (If "No," skip to Item 11)
IMPORTANT: Please provide your dates of
service. In many cases eligibility can be
BRANCH OF
DATE ENTERED
DATE SEPARATED
established based on data in VA systems.
SERVICE
However, it is recommended that proof of
service be provided, if readily available.
11A. ACTIVE SERVICE - Do not include any
periods of Active Duty for Training or Active
Guard Reserve service. Do include any
Reserve or Guard Unit activation under Title
10 U.S.C. or full time National Guard Duty
under Title 32 U.S.C. Sections 316, 502,
503, 504 or 505.
11B. RESERVE OR NATIONAL GUARD SERVICE - Include any periods of Active Duty for Training (ADT) or Active Guard Reserve service. Do not include any Reserve or Guard unit activation under Title 10 U.S.C. or Full Time National Guard Duty under Title 32 U.S.C. Sections 316, 502, 503, 504, or 505.
SECTION III: INFORMATION REGARDING PREVIOUS VA LOANS (See Instructions on Page 3)
12. INDICATE HOW YOU WILL USE YOUR CERTIFICATE OF ELIGIBILITY? (Check appropriate box)
ENTITLEMENT INQUIRY ONLY
PURCHASE A HOME
CASH-OUT REFINANCE
INTEREST RATE REDUCTION REFINANCE LOAN
13A. HAVE YOU USED THE VA HOME LOAN PROGRAM BEFORE?
13B. DO YOU STILL OWN ANY OF THE HOMES YOU USED THE VA HOME LOAN PROGRAM FOR?
YES (If "Yes," complete Item 13B)
YES (If "Yes," complete Items 14A thru 16D if applicable)
NO (If "No," skip to Item 19A)
PREVIOUS VA LOANS (SEE INSTRUCTIONS ON PAGE 3 - If additional space is needed for all homes use Item 18, Remarks or attach a separate sheet)
14A. COMPLETE ADDRESS
14B. LOAN NUMBER
14C. DATE OF LOAN
14D. ARE YOU APPLYING FOR ENTITLEMENT RESTORATION?
(Month and Year)
NO, ENTITLEMENT INQUIRY ONLY
CASH-OUT REFINANCE RESTORATION
INTEREST RATE REDUCTION REFINANCE
ONE-TIME RESTORATION (NOTE: See Instructions on page 3)
VA FORM
26-1880
SUPERSEDES VA FORM 26-1880, APR 2021,
Page 1
OCT 2022
WHICH WILL NOT BE USED.
SECTION III: INFORMATION REGARDING PREVIOUS VA LOANS (CONTINUED) (See Instructions on Page 3)
15A. COMPLETE ADDRESS
15B. LOAN NUMBER
15C. DATE OF LOAN
15D. ARE YOU APPLYING FOR ENTITLEMENT RESTORATION?
16A. COMPLETE ADDRESS
16B. LOAN NUMBER
16C. DATE OF LOAN
16D. ARE YOU APPLYING FOR ENTITLEMENT RESTORATION?
17A. DO YOU STILL OWN A PROPERTY THAT WAS FINANCED WITH A VA HOME LOAN THAT HAS BEEN SUBSTANTIALLY DAMAGED OR DESTROYED BY A FEDERALLY DECLARED NATURAL DISASTER?
YES (If "Yes," complete Items 17B thru 17D)
17B. DATE OF LOAN (Month and Year)
17C. DATE OF LOSS (Month and Year)
17D. ADDRESS OF PROPERTY
18. REMARKS (If any)
SECTION IV: CERTIFICATION AND SIGNATURE
I CERTIFY THAT the statements in this document are true and complete to the best of my knowledge.
19A. SIGNATURE OF VETERAN (Do NOT print)
19B. DATE SIGNED (MM/DD/YYYY)
FEDERAL STATUTES PROVIDE SEVERE PENALTIES FOR FRAUD, INTENTIONAL MISREPRESENTATION, CRIMINAL CONNIVANCE OR CONSPIRACY PURPOSED TO INFLUENCE THE ISSUANCE OF ANY GUARANTY OR INSURANCE BY THE SECRETARY OF VETERANS AFFAIRS (e.g. 18 U.S.C. § 1001, 372 and 287)
PRIVACY ACT INFORMATION: VA will not disclose information collected on this form to any source other than what has been authorized under the Privacy Act of 1974 or Title 38, Code of
Federal Regulations 1.576 for routine uses (for example: the authorized release of information to Congress when requested for statistical purposes) identified in the VA system of records, 55VA26, Loan Guaranty Home, Condominium and Manufactured Home Loan Applicant Records, Specially Adapted Housing Applicant Records, and Vendee Loan Applicant Records - VA, published in the Federal Register. Your response is required in order to obtain or retain benefits. Giving us your SSN account information is voluntary. Refusal to provide your SSN by itself will not result in the denial of benefits. VA will not deny an individual benefits for refusing to provide his or her SSN unless the disclosure of the SSN is required by Federal Statute of law in effect prior to January 1, 1975, and still in effect.
RESPONDENT BURDEN: This information is needed to help determine a veteran's qualifications for a VA guaranteed home loan. Title 38, U. S.C., section 3702, authorizes collection of this information. We estimate that you will need an average of 15 minutes to review the instructions, find the information, and complete this form. VA cannot conduct or sponsor a collection of information unless a valid OMB control number is displayed. You are not required to respond to a collection of information if this number is not displayed. Valid OMB control numbers can be located on the OMB Internet Page at www.reginfo.gov/public/do/PRAMain.
VA FORM 26-1880, OCT 2022
Page 2
INSTRUCTIONS FOR VA FORM 26-1880
SECTION I. VETERAN'S IDENTIFYING INFORMATION
Item 1 - Tell us your complete name, as you would like it to appear on your Certificate of Eligibility (COE). If this name is different than what is shown on your service documents or in VA records provide documentation such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court document to support the request. Do NOT send originals, copies of these documents are acceptable.
Item 2A - Indicate if you served under another name, provide the name as it appears on your discharge certificate (DD Form 214).
Item 2B - Provide the name as it appears on your discharge certificate (DD Form 214)
Item 9B - In most cases your claim number is the same as your Social Security number. If you are not sure about this number, leave this field blank.
SECTION II. MILITARY SERVICE INFORMATION
Item 10A - Indicate if you are currently serving on active duty.
Item 10B - The VA funding fee may not be collected from a member of the Armed Forces who is currently serving on active duty and has been awarded the Purple Heart. You may be asked to provide evidence of having been awarded the Purple Heart. Note: Activations under Title 32 orders are not considered active duty for the purpose of a funding fee exemption.
Item 10C - The VA funding fee may not be collected from a veteran who rated eligible to receive compensation as the result of a pre-discharge disability examination and rating or based on a pre-discharge review of existing medical evidence (including service medical and treatment records) that results in the issuance of a memorandum rating. Note: If the proposed or memorandum rating is not obtained and a closing takes place, the funding fee exemption does not apply, and the
service-member will not be entitled to a refund.
Items 11A and 11B - List your periods of military service.
Item 11A - Active Service: full-time duty in the Armed forces, other than active duty for training. The best evidence to show your service is your discharge certificate
(DD Form 214), which indicates both character of service and the narrative reason for separation. A copy is acceptable. Note: Cases involving other than honorable discharges will usually.require further development by VA. This is necessary to determine if the service was under other than dishonorable conditions.
If you are currently serving on regular active duty, eligibility can usually be established based on data in VA systems. However, in some situations you may be asked to provide a statement of service signed by, or by direction of, the adjutant, personnel officer, or commander of your unit or higher headquarters. The statement may be in any format; usually a standard or bulleted memo is sufficient. It should identify you by name and social security number and provide: (1) your date of entry on your current active- duty period and (2) the duration of any time lost (or a statement noting there has been no time lost). Generally, this should be on military letterhead.
National Guard members who served full time duty (only includes activations considered Full Time National Guard duty that is not inactive duty) under Title 32, U.S.C. sections 316, 502, 503, 504 or 505, may provide a DD Form 220, DD Form 214 or Report of Active Service, accompanied by orders for the same period is also acceptable. Copies are acceptable. If you are still serving on the activation, you should provide a statement of service that indicates (1) your date of entry on your current active-duty period and (2) the duration of any time lost (or a statement noting there has been no time lost), type of orders, if orders are for training, entry date for your current activation. Generally, this should be on military letterhead.
Item 11B - National Guard Service/Selected Reserve Service: You may submit for Selected Reserve Service Retirement Points Accounting and evidence of discharge which indicates the character of service, or their equivalent. For National Guard Service you may submit NGB Form 22, Report of Separation and Record of Service or NGB Form 23, Retirement Points Accounting, or their equivalent. If you are still serving in the Selected Reserves or the National Guard, you must include an original statement of service signed by, or by the direction of, the adjutant, personnel officer, or commander of your unit or higher headquarters showing your date of entry and the number of creditable years (years in which you earned more that 15 points). At least 6 years of honorable service must be documented.
SECTION III - INFORMATION REGARDING PREVIOUS LOANS
Your eligibility is reusable depending on the circumstances. Generally, if you have paid off your prior VA loan and no longer own the home, you can have your used eligibility restored for additional use. Also, on a one-time only basis, you may have your eligibility restored if your prior VA loan has been paid in full but you still own the home. Generally, VA receives notification that a loan has been paid. In some instances, it may be necessary to include evidence that a previous VA loan has been paid in full. Evidence can be in the form of a paid-in-full statement from the former lender, a satisfaction of mortgage from the clerk of court in the county where the home is located, or a copy of the HUD-1 or Closing Disclosure settlement statement completed in connection with a sale of the home or refinance of the prior loan. Many counties post public documents (like the satisfaction of mortgage) online.
ITEM 12 - Indicate how you will use your certificate of eligibility.
ITEM 13A - Indicate if you have ever had a VA-guaranteed home loan.
ITEM 13B - Indicate if you still own any homes you financed with a VA-guaranteed loan.
ITEMS 14D, 15D, 16D - Select the applicable type of restoration being requested. Indicate if you are applying for a restoration of entitlement.
•Regular (cash-out) Refinance - You may refinance your current VA or non-VA loan in order to pay off the mortgage and/or other liens of record on the home. This type of refinance requires an appraisal and credit qualifying.
•Interest Rate Reduction Refinancing Loan (IRRRL) - You may refinance the balance of your current VA loan in order to obtain a lower interest rate or convert a VA adjustable rate mortgage to a fixed rate. The new loan may not exceed the sum of the outstanding balance on the existing VA loan, plus allowable fees and closing costs, including VA funding fee and up to 2 discount points. You may also add up to $6,000 of energy efficiency improvements into the loan.
•One-Time Restoration. If you have paid off your VA loan, but still own the home purchased with that loan, you may apply for a one-time only restoration of your entitlement in order to purchase another home that will be your primary residence. Once you have used your one-time restoration, you must sell all homes before any other entitlement can be restored.
ITEM 17A - Disaster related. Indicate if you still own a home that was destroyed or substantially damaged by a Federally Declared Natural Disaster.
Page 3
If you live in:
Please send your completed application to:
Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina,
Department of Veterans Affairs
Tennessee
Atlanta Regional Loan Center
P.O. Box 100023
Decatur, GA 30031-7023
Connecticut, Delaware, Indiana, Maine,
Massachusetts, Michigan, New
Cleveland Regional Loan Center
Hampshire, New Jersey, New York,
1240 East Ninth Street
Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island,
Cleveland, OH 44199
Vermont
Alaska, Colorado, Idaho, Montana,
Oregon, Utah, Washington, Wyoming
Denver Regional Loan Center
Box 25126
Denver, CO 80225
Hawaii, Guam, American Samoa
Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas
VA Regional Office
Loan Guaranty Division (26)
459 Patterson Road
Honolulu, HI 96819
Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Texas
Houston Regional Loan Center
6900 Almeda Road
Houston, TX 77030-4200
Arizona, California, New Mexico,
Nevada
Phoenix Regional Loan Center
3333 N. Central Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85012-2402
District of Columbia, Kentucky,
Maryland
Roanoke Regional Loan Center
Virginia, West Virginia
210 Franklin Road, S.W.
Roanoke, VA 24011
Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota,
Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South
St. Paul Regional Loan Center
Dakota, Wisconsin
1 Federal Drive, Ft. Snelling
St. Paul, MN 55111-4050
Alabama, Florida, Mississippi, Puerto
Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands
St. Petersburg Regional Loan Center
9500 Bay Pines Blvd.
St. Petersburg, FL 33744
Page 4
To complete the VBA VA 26-1880 form, gather the necessary information and documents before starting. This form is essential for veterans seeking education benefits. Following the steps below will help ensure that you fill it out accurately and efficiently.
The VBA VA 26-1880 form is an application used by veterans to apply for a Certificate of Eligibility for a VA home loan. This certificate is essential for veterans who want to access VA-backed home financing options.
Eligibility for the VBA VA 26-1880 form typically includes:
Specific eligibility requirements may vary, so it’s advisable to check the latest guidelines from the VA.
To complete the form, follow these steps:
Ensure that all information is clear to avoid delays in processing.
You can obtain the VBA VA 26-1880 form online through the VA’s official website. It is also available at local VA offices and can be requested by mail. Ensure you are using the most current version of the form.
Processing times can vary based on the volume of applications received. Generally, it may take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. You can check the status of your application by contacting the VA directly.
If your application for the Certificate of Eligibility is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. Review the denial letter for specific reasons and gather any additional documentation that may support your case. You can submit your appeal through the VA’s appeals process.
Yes, veterans can apply for the VBA VA 26-1880 form online through the VA’s eBenefits portal. This online method is often quicker and allows you to track your application status easily.
Incomplete Personal Information: Many applicants fail to provide all necessary personal details. This includes missing social security numbers, dates of birth, or contact information. Ensuring that every field is filled out completely is crucial for processing.
Incorrect Eligibility Status: Some individuals mistakenly select the wrong eligibility category. It is important to carefully read the options available and choose the one that accurately reflects your situation.
Failure to Sign the Form: A common oversight is neglecting to sign the form. Without a signature, the application cannot be processed. Always double-check that you have signed and dated the form before submission.
Omitting Required Documentation: Applicants sometimes forget to include necessary supporting documents. This can delay the process significantly. Review the checklist of required documents and ensure everything is attached.
Not Keeping a Copy: After submitting the form, many people do not retain a copy for their records. Keeping a copy is essential for tracking the status of your application and for future reference.
The VBA VA 26-1880 form is a key document for veterans seeking a Certificate of Eligibility for a VA home loan. Along with this form, there are several other documents that are often required to complete the application process. Each of these documents plays a crucial role in ensuring that the application is processed smoothly and efficiently.
Gathering these documents can streamline the application process and help veterans secure their home loans more efficiently. Each document contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the veteran's eligibility and financial situation.
The VBA VA 26-1880 form, which is used for applying for a Certificate of Eligibility for VA home loan benefits, shares similarities with the VA Form 21-526EZ. This form is primarily for veterans seeking disability compensation. Both forms require personal information and details about military service. They also help veterans access benefits that can significantly impact their quality of life, highlighting the importance of proper documentation in the claims process.
Another document comparable to the VBA VA 26-1880 is the VA Form 21-4138, known as the Statement in Support of Claim. Like the 26-1880, this form allows veterans to provide additional information to support their claims. It emphasizes the need for clear communication about a veteran's circumstances, ensuring that all relevant details are considered when assessing eligibility for benefits.
The VA Form 22-1990, Application for VA Education Benefits, is also similar in purpose and structure. Both forms are designed to assist veterans in obtaining benefits that support their transition to civilian life. The 22-1990 focuses on educational opportunities, while the 26-1880 pertains to housing benefits. However, both require thorough documentation of service and personal information to facilitate the application process.
In addition, the VA Form 21-534EZ, Application for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation, is another document that aligns closely with the VBA VA 26-1880. This form is used by surviving spouses and dependents of veterans. Both documents aim to provide financial support to those who have served or their families, emphasizing the importance of timely and accurate submissions to ensure benefits are received.
The VA Form 21-8940, Application for Increased Compensation Based on Unemployability, shares a similar intent with the VBA VA 26-1880 by addressing the financial needs of veterans. While the 21-8940 focuses on veterans unable to work due to service-related conditions, both forms require detailed personal and service information to determine eligibility for benefits effectively.
Lastly, the VA Form 10-10EZ, Application for Health Benefits, is another document that serves a similar purpose. While it focuses on healthcare access, both the 10-10EZ and the VBA VA 26-1880 are essential for veterans seeking various forms of assistance. Each form requires comprehensive personal data and military history to process applications efficiently, ensuring that veterans receive the benefits they deserve.
When filling out the VBA VA 26-1880 form, it is important to approach the process with care. Here are some guidelines to help ensure that your application is completed correctly.
The VBA VA 26-1880 form is essential for veterans seeking to apply for a Certificate of Eligibility for a VA home loan. However, several misconceptions surround this form. Here are five common misunderstandings:
This is not true. The VA 26-1880 form is available to all veterans who meet the eligibility criteria, regardless of whether they served in combat or not.
While a good credit score can help, it is not a strict requirement for submitting the form. The VA does not set a minimum credit score, but lenders may have their own standards.
This is incorrect. Veterans can submit the VA 26-1880 form through various methods, including by mail or in person at their local VA office.
Submitting the form does not guarantee loan approval. It only provides a Certificate of Eligibility, which lenders use to determine eligibility for a VA loan.
Veterans can apply for the VA 26-1880 form multiple times if they have previously used their benefits and wish to obtain a new certificate for a different loan.
Filling out the VBA VA 26-1880 form is an important step for veterans seeking to access certain benefits. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:
By keeping these points in mind, veterans can navigate the application process more effectively and ensure they receive the benefits they deserve.