VA Loan Eligibility Checklist — Everything You Need

I put this checklist together because too many veterans show up to a lender appointment missing one critical document — and it delays their entire timeline. Print this page, check off each item as you gather it, and you'll walk into your first appointment fully prepared. If you have questions about any item on this list, call me directly.

— Barrett Henry, MRP | Broker Associate, REMAX Collective

Before You Apply

These documents prove your eligibility and military service history.

DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge) or Statement of Service for active duty
Certificate of Eligibility (COE) — request through VA.gov, your lender, or by mail
Recent pay stubs or Leave and Earnings Statement (LES) — last 30 days
W-2s and/or tax returns for the past 2 years
Bank statements for the past 2 months (all accounts)
Valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license or military ID)

Financial Documents

Lenders use these to assess your creditworthiness and debt-to-income ratio.

Credit report (your lender will pull this, but review yours first at AnnualCreditReport.com)
Complete list of debts with monthly payment amounts (auto loans, credit cards, student loans)
Rental history for the past 2 years (landlord contact info or cancelled checks)
Employment verification letter from your employer or commanding officer

Property Documents

Once you find a home and go under contract, you'll need these.

Signed purchase contract (your agent handles this)
Full property address and legal description
HOA documents if applicable (covenants, fees, budget, meeting minutes)

Optional But Helpful

Not required, but having these ready can speed up your closing timeline.

Pre-approval letter from a VA-approved lender
Home inspection report (recommended but not required by VA)
Flood zone determination (lender typically orders this)
Divorce decree or separation agreement (if applicable to financial obligations)

Need Help Gathering These Documents?

Most veterans qualify for a VA loan faster than they think. If you're not sure where to start — or you have your documents ready and want to move forward — reach out. I respond personally within 2 hours.

Get Free VA Loan Guidance (813) 733-7907