Florida VA Loan Eligibility Guide 2024

Complete guide to VA loan eligibility requirements in Florida. Learn who qualifies, service requirements, and how to obtain your Certificate of Eligibility for a VA loan.

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Who Is Eligible for VA Loans in Florida?

VA loans are available to eligible veterans, active-duty service members, National Guard members, reservists, and surviving spouses throughout Florida. Eligibility is based on your military service history and requires a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Service Requirements for VA Loan Eligibility

Active Duty Service Members

Eligible if you served:

90 consecutive days during wartime
181 days during peacetime
Currently on active duty for at least 90 days

Veterans

Eligible if you:

Served the minimum time requirements and were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable
Were discharged due to a service-connected disability
Served at least 90 days of active duty

National Guard & Reserves

Eligible if you:

Served at least 6 years in the National Guard or Reserves
Served at least 90 days of active duty (not training)
Were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable

Surviving Spouses

Eligible if you are the surviving spouse of a service member who:

Died in the line of duty
Died from a service-connected disability
Was missing in action or a prisoner of war

How to Get Your Certificate of Eligibility (COE)

To use your VA loan benefit, you need a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the VA. You can obtain your COE:

Online: Through the VA's eBenefits portal or ask your lender to request it
By Mail: Complete VA Form 26-1880 and mail to your regional VA office
Through Your Lender: Many lenders, including Edge Home Loans, can request your COE electronically

VA Loan Eligibility Requirements Beyond Service

In addition to service eligibility, you must meet these requirements for a VA loan in Florida:

Credit Score: Typically 620+, though some lenders may accept lower
Debt-to-Income Ratio: Generally 41% or less, though exceptions exist with strong compensating factors
Stable Income: Proof of steady employment and income
Primary Residence: VA loans are only for primary residences, not investment properties

VA Loan Entitlement in Florida

VA loan entitlement determines how much you can borrow without a down payment. In 2024, most Florida veterans have full entitlement, meaning no loan limits apply. However, if you have remaining entitlement from a previous VA loan, limits may apply based on your county.

Ready to Check Your VA Loan Eligibility?

Contact Edge Home Loans in Lake Mary to verify your VA loan eligibility and get started.

Call (855) 744-EDGE Apply Online