e. Other Qualifying Service

Congress has periodically granted veteran status to groups other than members of the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard, such as certain members of the Public Health Service, cadets at the service academies, certain merchant seaman, etc.

Lenders should contact the appropriate VA Eligibility Center for assistance when one of these unique cases is encountered.

f. Exceptions to Length of Service Requirements

There are numerous exceptions to the length of service requirements outlined in this section.  For example, one day of service is sufficient for an individual who is discharged or released from service (regular or Reserve/Guard) due to a service-connected disability.

Because of the complexity and number of exceptions, this chapter does not attempt to cover all of them.  The exceptions provide another reason to submit a formal eligibility application to VA in all cases, even if it appears the applicant is not eligible.