Our PDF editor is designed to make completing the 26 1817 form as straightforward as possible. Follow the steps below to fill out and submit your form online.
Step 1: Click the orange "Get Form Now" button at the top of this page to open the 26 1817 form in our editor.
Step 2: You will arrive at the document editing page. You can type into fields, add checkmarks, highlight text, cross out sections, or erase existing entries.
Complete the following sections of the 26 1817 form:
Enter your information in the YES field, complete the Items section if applicable, and mark INDICATE WHAT YOU ARE SEEKING. Select from PURCHASE LOAN, CASH OUT REFINANCE LOAN, or INTEREST RATE REDUCTION REFINANCE. Complete the CERTIFICATION section, provide your SIGNATURE OF APPLICANT as the unmarried surviving spouse, and fill in the DATE SIGNED field. Note that federal statutes provide severe penalties for false statements. Complete the Adjudication Officer Department address, the foregoing request section, PART II FOR VA USE ONLY SECTION A, and the Loan Guaranty Officer Department area.
In the second section, record the required information in THE ABOVE NAMED DECEASED VETERAN field, add the SIGNATURE and TITLE of the authorized official, enter the DATE, and note the VA FORM DEC reference. This section supersedes the previous VA FORM FEB edition.
The RESPONDENT BURDEN section explains why the VA needs this information and how it will be used. The VA FORM DEC and Page fields must be completed to record the rights and obligations of both the applicant and the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Step 3: Click the "Done" button when you have finished filling out the form. You can then download the completed PDF to your device or send it directly by email to the appropriate VA regional loan center.
Step 4: Keep at least two copies of the completed form and all supporting documents for your records before submitting the original to the VA.
Frequently Asked Questions About the VA Form 26-1817
What is the purpose of the VA Form 26-1817?
The form requests a formal determination from the Department of Veterans Affairs about whether an unmarried surviving spouse qualifies for VA home loan guaranty benefits. Without this determination, a surviving spouse cannot proceed with a VA-backed home loan application.
Do I need to submit supporting documents with the form?
Yes. The VA typically requires a copy of the veteran's discharge papers, such as a DD-214, and documentation of the service-connected cause of death. A death certificate may also be required. The regional loan center will notify you if additional documents are needed after reviewing your submission.
How long does the VA take to process this form?
Processing times vary depending on the regional loan center and the completeness of the submitted documents. Many applications receive a response within 30 days. Submitting a fully completed form with all required supporting documents reduces delays.
Can I use this form if I have remarried?
A surviving spouse who remarried after reaching age 57 and on or after December 16, 2003 may still qualify for VA home loan benefits. If you remarried before that date or before reaching age 57, you are generally not eligible under the standard provisions of the program.
What is the difference between VA Form 26-1817 and VA Form 26-1880?
The 26-1817 form is used specifically by unmarried surviving spouses to determine their eligibility for VA home loan benefits. The VA Form 26-1880 is used by veterans themselves to request a Certificate of Eligibility for their own VA home loan benefit. Surviving spouses use the 26-1817 because standard eligibility rules differ for this group.
Where can I find other VA-related forms?
Additional forms related to veterans benefits are available on this site. The Veterans Affairs attendant affidavit covers claims involving aid and attendance benefits. The proof of surviving legal heirs form is useful when documenting legal standing as a beneficiary.
