VA Loan Requirements
Each VA Loan comes with its own set of requirements and specifications. Some, such as the VA Cash-Out Refinance Loans, require a credit report and income verification, whereas others like the VA Streamline Refinance Loan do not even require a pay stub or job verification.
General Specifications
- A veteran, spouse of deceased military personnel, a Reservist or National Guard member.
- A certain amount of time served. For veterans, they must have served 90 days of active duty in wartime and 180 consecutive days in times of peace.
- An honorable discharge.
- A Certificate of Eligibility that entitles you to a VA Loan, which can be attained by submitting a DD 214 Form to the Department of Veteran Affairs.
VA Streamline Refinance Loan Requirements
Because the VA uses the previous paperwork for the original VA Loan to process a VA Streamline Refinance Loan, the requirements are much less stringent than during the initial application process. You cannot have more than one 30-day late payment on your mortgage in the last twelve months.
There are few other requirements, and some other benefits include:
- No appraisal required
- No credit check required
- No pay stub or income verification
- No job verification
VA Cash-Out Refinance Loan Requirements
Because the cash-out program offers actual money, whereas streamline refinancing does not, the requirements are much greater in order to qualify for a VA Cash Out Refinance Loan. However, unlike a VA Home Improvement or Energy Efficiency Loan, you may use the cash you receive from a VA Cash Out Refinance Loan in any way you need it.
Requirements for a VA Cash Out Refinance Loan:
- Income Verification
- No late payments in the last year
- Full Credit Report
- Home Appraisal
- VA Loan holder must inhabit the property
- 90% Loan To Value amount
- 3% funding fee unless otherwise exempt
- You can combine a first and second mortgage if you so desire.

