Got VA Benefit? Here’s How the Entitlement Works

Takeaway

VA entitlements let eligible veterans borrow with zero down payment by guaranteeing a share (usually 25%) of your loan—full entitlement means no limits; partial entitlement may mean you’ll need a down payment or can’t borrow as much.

How do you get your entitlements?

If you meet VA service rules—like at least 90 days of active duty—you can apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE). Your COE shows your entitlement, which usually guarantees 25% of your loan in case of default.

How do you check your entitlements?

You can check your entitlement by requesting your COE online at VA.gov or through a VA-approved lender. The COE shows how much entitlement you have available, especially if you’ve used VA benefits before.

How do you consume your entitlements?

When you close on a VA loan, part of your entitlement is “used.” The VA guarantees up to 25% of the loan amount. If your loan is above the standard limits, bonus entitlement may apply.

After you’ve consumed entitlement, how do you get it back?

Once you repay your VA loan in full and either sell the home or complete a replacement VA loan, you can request a full entitlement restoration. In some cases, you can even restore it one time without selling the house if you meet VA requirements.

What if you don't have enough entitlement for a given house?

If you only have partial entitlement, you can still buy—but you may need a down payment. Lenders require a total guarantee of 25%, so if VA covers less, you’ll have to make up the difference out of pocket.

Can you use entitlements for investment properties?

No, VA loans are for primary residences only. However, you can buy up to a four‑unit property if you live in one unit. This lets you rent out the other units while still qualifying under VA rules.

Conclusion

Your VA entitlement is a powerful benefit: it guarantees up to 25% of your VA‑backed mortgage, lets you borrow with zero down if you have full entitlement, and can be restored so you can reuse it later.