Understanding Who Is Eligible for a VA Loan

by Norma Pfluge 09/25/2023

A loan from the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs can be an excellent choice for financing a home purchase. While VA benefits are generally reserved for veterans, there are a few exceptions with mortgage programs. Here are some other ways you could be eligible for a VA loan:

Active Duty

Fortunately, you don't have to have served in the past to be eligible for a VA loan. Active duty military service people are also eligible if they have been active for a required amount of time. Anyone on active duty who has served at least 90 consecutive days in the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines can be approved for a VA loan.

Military Spouses

Spouses of military personnel can be eligible for VA loans. However, there are some specific criteria for eligibility. For example, the service person the spouse is married to must either be deceased, officially declared missing in action (MIA) or a prisoner of war (POW) for at least 90 days. Surviving spouses of veterans who have had an active VA loan can be eligible to refinance the loan for a better rate rather than apply for a new one.

Reserve & National Guard

Members of the Reserves and National Guard are also eligible for VA loans. The main requirement for these service people is to have completed at least six years of service in either the Selected Reserve or National Guard and are no longer active due to specific reasons. Those reasons include honorable discharge, being transferred to another element of the Reserve or being placed on the retired list.

Other Exceptions

There are other people who can be approved for VA loans beyond the above examples. Individuals who have worked within certain federal government organizations can be eligible, including cadets, midshipmen and U.S. Public Health Service officers.

If you're interested in applying for a VA loan and are not sure if you're eligible, consult with a VA lending advisor to find the best solution.

About the Author
Author

Norma Pfluge

 Meet Norma, a trusted realtor in Middle Tennessee. With over 20 years of experience living in Smyrna with her husband and two children, she has a deep understanding of the local community. Norma's background in customer service and the medical field has given her the skills to provide excellent care and service to her clients, no matter the price point of their home.

With a passion for service and a commitment to professionalism, Norma strives to make each client's experience smooth and memorable. As a real estate agent, her first priority is education, as she listens to her clients' needs and wants and uses her skills and 10+ years of experience to deliver a stress-free and enjoyable home buying or selling experience.

Norma is dedicated to making a life-changing difference in her clients' lives and is committed to providing the highest level of service. Let Norma help you navigate the exciting journey of buying or selling your home.