The VA Form 26-1817, also referred to as the Request for Determination of Loan Guaranty Eligibility for Unmarried Surviving Spouses, is a two-page federal form administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs. It grants eligible applicants access to VA home loan benefits, including the ability to purchase a home with no down payment, competitive interest rates, and no private mortgage insurance requirement.
Who qualifies to use this form
The primary applicants are unmarried surviving spouses of veterans who died while on active duty or as a direct result of a service-connected disability. A surviving spouse who remarried after reaching age 57 and on or after December 16, 2003 may also be eligible under a specific federal provision. Spouses of veterans listed as missing in action or prisoners of war may qualify as well, provided certain conditions are met by the Department of Veterans Affairs.
What information the form requires
The completed form must include the applicant's full legal name, current mailing address, and social security number. Information about the deceased veteran is also required, including the veteran's full name, social security number, branch of military service, and the dates of active service. Applicants must provide a declaration of current marital status and indicate what type of loan benefit they are seeking. Available options on the form include a purchase loan, a cash-out refinance loan, or an interest rate reduction refinance loan.
Where to submit the completed form
Completed forms should be mailed to the VA regional loan center serving the applicant's state of residence. A current list of regional loan centers is available on the VA website. Forms can also be submitted digitally through the VA's online portal. Keeping a copy of the submitted form and all supporting documents is recommended before sending the original.
What happens after submission
The Department of Veterans Affairs reviews the form and issues a formal determination of eligibility. If approved, the surviving spouse receives a Certificate of Eligibility, which is required to proceed with a VA-backed home loan. The VA Form 26-1880 is the standard certificate of eligibility request form used in most cases. Surviving spouses may also need to file supporting documentation such as a copy of the veteran's discharge papers. For veterans who were separated from service, the DD-214 form serves as proof of military service and is often required alongside the 26-1817.
Related forms for surviving spouses
Applicants working through the VA benefits process may need to complete additional forms. The VA Form 21-526EZ is used to apply for disability compensation and related benefits. Surviving spouses managing an estate may also need a proof of surviving legal heirs form to establish legal standing. Veterans who elected the Survivor Benefit Plan may have designated benefits handled through the DD-2656 form.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Form Name | 26 1817 Form |
| Form Length | 2 pages |
| Fillable? | No |
| Fillable fields | 0 |
| Avg. time to fill out | 30 sec |
| Other names | 13A, 26 1817 form, va form 26 1817 fillable, 26 1817 form to print |
