|
All veterans who served on active duty a minimum of 90 days (not including active duty for
training purposes only), whether during wartime or peacetime periods are eligible. Eligibility requires
service under honorable conditions. There are no prior residency rules--a veteran may have entered service
from outside California. NG or reservists who have been ordered to active duty, including Active
Guard/Reserve (AGR) duty are eligible.
You will need a copy of your DD 214 (Release from Active Duty) to confirm that you have
qualifying service. If you do not have a copy, obtaining one is easier than ever. Once you have searched
your personal records and determine that you no longer have a copy there are several things you can do.
In the past veterans were advised to have their DD214 recorded in the county they went home to after their
release. If you did that, contact the county recorder and you should be able to get a copy there.
If you used a DD214 to apply for other benefits, such as educational or medical, that agency may be able to
give you a copy.
If neither of these ideas work the fastest way to obtain a copy is through the National
Archives, National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) on their website at
http://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records/get-service-records.html.
They are the records custodian for most discharged and retired members of all branches of service. Expect a
two to three week wait to receive your record, but ordering online may speed up the process.
If you do not have internet access you can order a copy by mailing or faxing a Standard
Form 180 (SF-180) to The National Personnel Records Center, Military Personnel Records, 9700 Page Avenue,
St. Louis, Missouri 63132, Fax Number 314-801-9195. The SF-180 is available in our District Offices, and
may be obtained by fax from the NPRC by calling (301) 837-0990 from a fax machine - follow their directions
and request document number 2255.
If you are currently serving on active duty you are also eligible after you meet the 90
days service requirement. Obtain a Statement of Service from your Commanding Officer, Adjutant, or Personnel
Officer.
Current members of the National Guard or Reserves whose only active duty was for training
purposes and who are first time homebuyers or purchase properties in certain target areas are eligible
after one year of service with a total six year service commitment.
CalVet can begin processing your loan without the DD214, and we may be able to confirm your
dates of service directly through USDVA. Contact one of our offices if you have any questions about
eligibility or need assistance. If you are currently serving on regular active duty, you are eligible.
|