National Guard members didn’t always have access to VA mortgage loans. But in 1992, all of that changed when the U.S. government decided to extend VA loan benefits to Guard members with at least six years of service time. In 2020, eligibility was expanded, allowing qualifying Guard members on active duty to access VA loan benefits so long as they meet certain requirements.
If you’re a member of the National Guard or Reserves, you may be wondering what exactly these requirements are. This guide will teach you all you need to know about your VA loan eligibility.
Guide to VA Loans for National Guard Members
VA loans are slightly more complicated than conventional mortgages. Though the benefits can, in many cases, be more advantageous, these loans do have stricter requirements. This is because they are intended for current and former members of the U.S. Armed Forces. As a member of the National Guard, you have access to the VA loan program, so long as you meet certain criteria.
Below, you will find useful information about VA loan benefits for Guard members, eligibility requirements, and other helpful details.
VA Loan Benefits for National Guard Members
Some of the benefits of pursuing VA mortgage loans over conventional mortgages for Guard members include:
- No down payment
- No PMI (private mortgage insurance)
- Low-interest rates
- Relaxed credit requirements
- Reduced closing costs
- Lifetime access
Eligibility Requirements
As a National Guard member, you may be eligible for a VA loan if…
- You’ve served in the National Guard for at least six years and meet certain requirements
- You’ve been called to active duty service under Title 10 and have served at least 90 consecutive days
- You’ve been mobilized under qualifying Title 32 orders and have served at least 90 cumulative days of full-time duty, of which at least 30 must have been consecutive
The legislative change that took place in 2020 is also retroactive. This means that if you served in the National Guard some time ago and now meet the new Title 32 guidelines, you may now be eligible for a VA mortgage.
Additional Requirements
In addition to meeting the requirements above, you may also be required to obtain certain documents. This includes a DD-214, an NGB-22, and/or an NGB-23. Your lender should be able to help you with the process of obtaining a COE (Certificate of Eligibility).
Additionally, you’ll also need to be able to provide proof of income and meet your lender’s credit score requirements. For a VA loan, applicants must also have a debt-to-income ratio of 41% or lower.
If you have questions about your eligibility or your ability to obtain certain documents, do not hesitate to reach out. We’d be happy to help!
Learn More about VA Mortgage Loans
For more information on VA mortgage loans, please contact our office.
