Can I Use a Co-Signer on a VA Loan?

Thinking of using a co-signer to qualify for a VA loan? It’s possible but not as flexible as conventional loans.

The VA has strict rules about who can be on the loan with you, and bringing in a co-signer outside those rules can actually make the process harder or more costly. Let’s break it down.

Who Can Be on a VA Loan With You?

1-Your legal spouse

2-Another eligible veteran (with VA entitlement) who will live in the home as a primary residence

3-A non-spouse non veteran or a veteran who will not live in the home. This option requires prior VA approval and a down payment.

Can You Use a Parent, Sibling, or Friend as a Co-Signer?

Technically, yes but here’s the catch: If your co-signer isn’t your spouse or another eligible veteran, you’ll need:

• A joint VA loan, which not all lenders offer
• A down payment to cover the non-veteran’s portion of the loan that the VA won’t guarantee
• Extra layers of underwriting and approval

So yes, it’s possible but you’ll need a lender who specializes in joint VA loans (and most don't).

When Does Using a Co-Borrower Actually Help?

• When the veteran’s income alone isn’t quite enough to qualify
• When you’re combining finances with a spouse or fellow vet
• When you’re trying to buy at a higher price point and need to strengthen the app

But the key is: both parties must intend to live in the home if their entitlement is being used..

What If You Want to Buy With Someone You're Not Married To?

Options include:

• Joint VA loan with another veteran
• Buy solo with your own entitlement
• Buy with a VA loan and a down payment
• Look at conventional or FHA if co-signing flexibility is a must

Bottom Line

VA loans are powerful, but they’re not built for roommates or family co-signers outside of specific scenarios. Let’s look at your income, credit, and goals first. Then we can see if you need a co-signer and whether VA or another option makes the most sense.