Guard / Reserve / Active Duty
Specific VA eligibility pathways, VLB access, and SCRA protections for Guard, Reserve, and active-duty service members.
National Guard VA COE Pathways
- 90 days non-training Title 10 federal active duty
- Qualifying 90-day active-duty path including 30+ consecutive qualifying Title 32 days
- 6 creditable years with continued service/honorable discharge/retirement
Reserve VA COE Pathways
- 90 days non-training active duty
- 6 creditable years in Selected Reserve with continued service/honorable discharge/retirement
VLB Eligibility
Texas National Guard members are explicitly included in VLB eligibility.
Reserve members generally require 20 qualifying retirement years unless qualifying through another VLB category.
SCRA Protections
Active duty and qualifying activations may trigger SCRA protections:
- 6% interest cap on qualifying pre-service mortgages
- Foreclosure protection
- Lease termination rights
VLB SCRA assistance provides payment relief for Guard/Reserve VLB borrowers called to active duty.
Transitioning Service Members
Secure COE and service records early. VA eligibility before separation depends on service status and terms.
Other-Than-Honorable (OTH) Discharge
A person with an OTH or bad-conduct discharge may still apply for a COE. VA can review service records. A discharge upgrade or VA Character of Discharge review may offer a pathway. Dishonorable discharge is ineligible. VLB has separate discharge rules. Contact VA directly.