Last updated: September 2025
Quick Answer
Yes, you can use a VA loan with your spouse. In 2025, VA loan rules allow married couples to apply together, but your spouse’s credit, debt, and income may impact approval, especially in community property states.
Can you use a VA loan with your spouse in 2025?
Yes, VA loans support co-borrowing with a spouse. Whether your spouse is a veteran or a civilian, they can be included on the loan.
But how the VA reviews their credit, debt, and income depends on a few key things:
- Is your spouse also a veteran?
- Do you live in a community property state?
- Will your spouse be on the loan, the title, or both?
Each of these impacts how your loan is approved—and how your VA entitlement is used.
Co-borrowing options for married VA borrowers
1. Veteran + non-veteran spouse
This is the most common setup. You’re the eligible veteran, and your spouse is not. The VA allows this. You use your entitlement, but their income and debts may still be considered.
- No down payment needed
- Your spouse can co-own the home
- Lenders may check your spouse’s credit if they’re co-signing
A non-veteran spouse can never use VA benefits alone, but they can share the home and help you qualify.
2. Both spouses are eligible veterans (joint VA loan)
If both of you are veterans, you can apply together using both entitlements. This may boost your loan amount and help reduce or waive the VA funding fee.
- Both incomes and entitlements are considered
- You can split the funding fee or get it waived (if either of you has a qualifying disability rating)
3. Spouse not on the loan
Some couples choose to keep one spouse off the loan—usually to avoid credit or debt issues. In community property states, though, the spouse’s debts may still count even if they’re not applying
How credit and income affect VA loan approval
Although VA loans are flexible, lenders still need to assess risk. Here’s how your spouse’s financial picture may play a role:
Credit score
If your spouse is a co-borrower, their credit will be checked. High scores help. Low scores can cause issues.
- 700+ score? Helpful
- Under 580? May hurt approval or require one spouse to apply solo
Debt-to-income ratio (DTI)
Lenders consider all debts in relation to gross income. When your spouse is on the loan, their debts and income are included.
- High income can help you qualify for more
- High debt can drag down your DTI
Residual income
Residual income is the money left over after monthly bills. The VA has minimums based on family size and region. Your spouse may help meet or increase those limits—but they can also raise the minimum you must meet.
What to know about community property states
In community property states, spouses are legally entitled to share most assets and debts acquired during their marriage—even if only one spouse applies for the loan.
Here’s why that matters:
- Your spouse’s debts will be included in the underwriting
- Their credit may be checked, even if they’re not on the loan
- If you default, both spouses may be held responsible
The following are community property states in 2025:
| State | Community Property Rules Apply |
|---|---|
| Arizona | Yes |
| California | Yes |
| Idaho | Yes |
| Louisiana | Yes |
| Nevada | Yes |
| New Mexico | Yes |
| Texas | Yes |
| Washington | Yes |
| Wisconsin | Yes |
If you live in one of these, talk with your lender early about how your spouse’s finances may impact the loan.
VA funding fee for married borrowers
The VA funding fee is a one-time cost that helps fund the Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) loan program. In 2025, here’s what you might pay:
| Scenario | First Use | Subsequent Use |
|---|---|---|
| No down payment | 2.15% | 3.30% |
| With 5–9.99% down | 1.50% | 1.50% |
| With 10%+ down | 1.25% | 1.25% |
If both spouses are veterans, you may be able to split the funding fee. If either has a qualifying VA disability rating, the fee may be waived.
Property title and occupancy rules
VA loans require the home to be a primary residence. At least one veteran borrower must live there.
- Both spouses can be on the title (ownership)
- Only one needs to be on the loan (unless both incomes are needed)
- You must plan to live there within 60 days of closing
FAQ: Using a VA Loan with a Spouse
Yes. You can apply together, but only your VA entitlement is used.
Yes, if they’re on the loan. Their score can help or hurt your approval and mortgage rate.
Your spouse’s debts will likely be considered, even if they’re not on the loan.
Yes—but only if both are eligible veterans.
Not unless they’re also a veteran with a qualifying VA disability rating.
Planning to buy a home with your spouse using a VA loan?
Using a VA loan with your spouse gives you the chance to combine incomes and build a future together with zero-down financing.
Whether you're buying jointly, stacking entitlements, or navigating community property rules, knowing how the VA evaluates married borrowers can help you move forward with confidence.
