VA Form 26-6681: Apply for VA Fee Appraiser Roster

VA Form 26-6681: Apply for VA Fee Appraiser Roster – VA Form 26-6681 is the official Application for Fee or Roster Personnel Designation used by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for professionals seeking to join the VA fee panel as appraisers or compliance inspectors. This form is essential for real estate appraisers and inspectors who want to perform valuations and inspections for VA-guaranteed home loans.

What Is VA Form 26-6681?

VA Form 26-6681 is a two-page application that collects personal, professional, educational, licensing, and experience information to determine eligibility for designation on the VA’s fee or roster panel. It applies primarily to:

  • Real Estate Appraisers — who determine the reasonable market value of properties for VA home loans.
  • Compliance Inspectors — (including for Specially Adapted Housing/SAH properties).

The current version is dated August 2024, with OMB Control No. 2900-0113 (expires 08/31/2027). The estimated completion time is 30 minutes.

Download the official fillable PDF here: VA Form 26-6681 (PDF) Download VA Form 26-6681

Who Should Apply for VA Fee or Roster Designation?

Qualified real estate professionals interested in working with the VA Loan Guaranty program should apply. VA fee appraisers play a critical role in supporting veterans by ensuring properties meet value and Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs) for safety, sanitation, and structural soundness.

Key Qualification Requirements for VA Fee Appraisers

According to official VA guidelines, applicants generally must:

  • Submit a completed VA Form 26-6681.
  • Provide two letters of recommendation from other appraisers (for appraisal applicants).
  • Have at least 5 years of relevant experience (or 3 years for new appointees during a 2-year probationary period) in residential real estate appraisal, sales, or construction.
  • Hold and maintain a current state-issued residential or commercial appraiser license/certification.
  • Demonstrate good character and no conflicts of interest.
  • Pass a demonstration appraisal if required.
  • Authorize a credit report and clear any delinquent federal debts (via CAIVRS screening).

Ineligible applicants include employees of HUD, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, or the U.S. Postal Service. Local/state government employees may qualify if no conflict exists.

How to Complete and Submit VA Form 26-6681?

Step-by-step process:

  1. Download and fill out the form completely (fillable PDF recommended).
  2. Attach required documents: licenses, two reference letters (from appraisers for appraisal roles), resume/experience details.
  3. Submit via the VA ServiceNow Portal (preferred) or contact your Regional Loan Center (RLC). Applications route to the RLC with jurisdiction over your desired geographic area(s).
  4. If applying for multiple RLC jurisdictions, submit separate applications.

Contact for questions: Use the ServiceNow Portal or call 1-877-827-3702 (8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Eastern).

Note: Applications for construction inspectors are currently limited, primarily for SAH properties.

What Happens After Submission?

VA reviews the application for qualifications, experience, licensing, references, and background. Approved applicants are added to the fee roster for their specified counties/states and can receive assignments for VA appraisals and inspections. New appraisers undergo probation and must complete VA-specific training.

Benefits of Becoming a VA Fee Appraiser or Inspector

  • Steady assignment opportunities tied to the active VA home loan program.
  • Opportunity to support veterans in achieving homeownership.
  • Established fee schedules and timeliness requirements set by VA (varies by location and property type).
  • Professional development through VA Fee Appraiser Training series.

Common Sections on VA Form 26-6681

The form requests:

  • Personal information (name, SSN, DOB, contact details).
  • Education and training history.
  • Professional licenses/certifications (with copies attached).
  • Employment and assignment history (past 5–10 years).
  • Geographic areas of practice.
  • References.
  • Certification and agreement to independent contractor status, credit check, etc.

Tips for a Successful Application

  • Ensure all information is accurate and complete to avoid delays.
  • Provide strong, relevant references from licensed appraisers.
  • Highlight geographic competency in desired areas.
  • Maintain an active, valid state appraisal license.
  • Review the full VA Fee Appraiser Qualification Requirements before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is VA Form 26-6681 only for appraisers?
Primarily yes, though it also covers compliance inspectors.

How long does approval take?
Processing times vary by RLC; check with the specific Regional Loan Center.

Do I need to be a veteran to apply?
No. The form is open to qualified civilian professionals.

For the most current information, always refer to official VA sources:

This article is for informational purposes and is based on current VA resources as of 2026. Requirements can change; verify details directly with the VA.