Florida VA loan requirements 2026.
$0 down payment. No private mortgage insurance. Competitive rates. VA loans are the most powerful home financing benefit available — and most veterans underuse it.
VA loan eligibility requirements.
VA loans are available to veterans, active-duty service members, National Guard members, reservists, and eligible surviving spouses. Florida has over 1.5 million veterans — the second-largest veteran population in the US.
Military Service
90 consecutive days active duty during wartime, 181 days during peacetime, or 6+ years in the National Guard or Reserves.
Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
Required to confirm VA entitlement. We obtain your COE directly from the VA as part of the pre-approval process.
Credit Score
The VA has no minimum credit score requirement, but most lenders require 620+. We work with scores as low as 580 in some cases.
Debt-to-Income Ratio
VA guidelines prefer 41% DTI, but the residual income test often allows higher ratios for well-qualified borrowers.
Primary Residence
VA loans are for primary residences only. You must intend to occupy the home within 60 days of closing.
VA Funding Fee
2026 funding fee: 2.15% for first use (0% down), 1.25% for subsequent use (10%+ down). Waived for veterans with service-connected disability.
| Feature | VA Loan | Conventional |
|---|---|---|
| Down Payment | $0 (0%) | 3–20% |
| PMI / MIP | None | Required if < 20% down |
| Loan Limit | No limit (full entitlement) | $806,500 conforming |
| Funding Fee | 1.25–3.3% | None |
| Credit Score | 580+ (lender varies) | 620+ |
| Appraisal | VA appraisal required | Standard appraisal |
Equal Housing Lender. Not a commitment to lend. All loans subject to credit approval and VA eligibility. NMLS# 1859012. Licensed in Florida.
You served. Use your benefit.
Our mortgage team will confirm your eligibility and obtain your COE at no cost.
Start VA Pre-Approval