Short answer
Yes, in many cases. A surviving spouse can get a VA-backed home loan if the veteran or service member died in service or from a service-connected disability, is missing in action or a prisoner of war, or in certain cases was totally disabled before death. Generally you must not have remarried, unless you remarried at 57 or older on or after December 16, 2003. You'll need a Certificate of Eligibility and must meet the lender's credit and income requirements.
How do I get a Certificate of Eligibility?
- If you receive Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC): complete VA Form 26-1817 and include the veteran's DD214 or other separation papers if you have them. Your lender can submit it.
- If you don't receive DIC: first apply with VA Form 21P-534EZ, with the DD214 if available, your marriage certificate and the death certificate.
Tom can help you start the request so it's ready when you're pre-approved.
Do surviving spouses pay the VA funding fee?
Many don't. VA exempts surviving spouses who receive DIC from the funding fee. Check the VA's funding fee page for the current list of exemptions, and see the VA loan guide for how the rest of the loan works.
Are there New Hampshire property tax credits for surviving spouses?
Yes. Many towns offer a surviving spouse credit for the spouse of a service member who died on active duty, and surviving spouses of veterans who qualified for a veterans' credit may be able to keep that credit. Amounts vary by town; Londonderry, for example, lists a $2,000 surviving spouse credit and Windham the same. See NH veterans' tax credits.
I already have a VA loan from my spouse. Can I refinance it?
Often, yes. A surviving spouse who was on the loan may be able to use a VA streamline refinance (IRRRL), and one who qualifies for their own eligibility can use other VA refinances. Rules depend on whether you were a co-borrower and on your eligibility, so ask before you apply.
Sources
- VA, Eligibility for a VA home loan as a surviving spouse
- VA, Funding fee and closing costs
- Town of Londonderry, Veterans' tax credits
Checked November 2, 2026. Rules and dates change, so confirm current details before you rely on them.
General information only, not tax or legal advice. Program availability, eligibility and terms vary by lender and are subject to change and to underwriting approval. Not a commitment to lend.