Every lender's exact list varies a little, but these are the categories that come up for nearly every VA borrower. Having them ready before you apply is the single biggest thing you can do to keep the process moving.
Eligibility
- Certificate of Eligibility (COE) — your lender can usually pull this electronically once they have your service information
- DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty), if you're separated or retired
- A current statement of service, if you're still on active duty
- NGB Form 22, if you're National Guard
Income & Employment
- Last two years of W-2s
- Last 30 days of pay stubs (or your Leave and Earnings Statement, if active duty)
- Contact information for employers over the last two years
- Most recent two years of tax returns, if self-employed, commissioned, or receiving rental/investment income
Assets & Bank Information
- Last two months of statements for every bank, investment and retirement account you'll use
- Documentation for any large or unusual deposits in those statements
- Gift letter and paper trail, if any part of your down payment or costs is a gift
Credit & Debts
- A list of any debts not showing on your credit report (private loans, support obligations)
- An explanation letter for any late payments, collections or credit inquiries in the last two years
- Landlord contact info or mortgage statement, if you currently rent or own
Identification & Basics
- A valid government-issued photo ID
- Social Security number for every borrower on the loan
- Current address history for the last two years
At Closing
- Proof of homeowners insurance, arranged before closing
- Certified or cashier's check for any funds due at closing (your lender will confirm the exact amount and acceptable payment method)
- Valid photo ID for signing
Have a VA disability rating, or think you might qualify for a funding fee exemption? Mention it to your lender before they run your numbers — it can change what you're asked to bring and what you'll actually owe.
Talk to a lender. Rates, loan programs and approvals come from lenders, not from websites or real estate agents. Talk to your own mortgage broker, or use our preferred lender, Rodrigo Ballon with CrossCountry Mortgage, at 858-735-0255. You are always free to choose any lender you like, and you can verify any lender’s license at nmlsconsumeraccess.org.