Who qualifies for VA Home Loan — Surviving Spouse Eligibility?

Spouse of veteran who died in service or from service-connected disability Spouse of veteran missing in action OR prisoner of war Spouse of P&T-rated veteran who died of any cause (must apply with DD-214)

How do I apply for VA Home Loan — Surviving Spouse Eligibility?

File VA Form 26-1817 (Request for Determination of Loan Guaranty Eligibility).

Surviving Spouse + Dependent Benefit

VA Home Loan — Surviving Spouse Eligibility

Surviving spouses of certain veterans qualify for VA-guaranteed home loan benefits in their own right.

Eligibility

Spouse of veteran who died in service or from service-connected disability
Spouse of veteran missing in action OR prisoner of war
Spouse of P&T-rated veteran who died of any cause (must apply with DD-214)

Benefit: No down payment, no private mortgage insurance, competitive rates.
Form: VA Form 26-1817 (Request for Determination of Loan Guaranty Eligibility)

VA.gov form / portal → Find a free CVSO →

In crisis? Call 988 and press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line — 24/7 confidential. Family members can also reach the line; bereaved family members of fallen service members are specifically supported.

Other survivor + dependent benefits

About this guide

Survivor + dependent benefits are administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Always verify current eligibility + amounts at va.gov/family-and-caregiver-benefits before filing. CVSOs (County Veterans Service Officers) and VSOs (American Legion, VFW, DAV) file these claims for surviving spouses at no cost.