VA COE and offer preparation checklist

Prepare your VA eligibility and offer questions

Use this checklist before relying on a VA financing plan for a home offer. A Certificate of Eligibility helps establish the benefit; the lender still reviews the borrower, property, and transaction.

1. COE status. Note whether you have a Certificate of Eligibility or need help requesting one through VA or your lender.
2. Prior VA use. Tell the lender about previous VA loans and ask whether entitlement restoration or remaining entitlement needs review.
3. Home and occupancy. Identify the intended primary residence, property type, and any condition or appraisal questions.
4. Funding fee. Ask whether an exemption applies and how any funding fee would be paid or financed.
5. Cash and contract. Request an estimate of cash needed and discuss proposed credits, appraisal protections, and offer deadlines with the team.

Write down what you know, mark what still needs verification and avoid including Social Security numbers, account numbers or other sensitive financial information.

Further reading: VA COE request instructions (new tab).