FHA Credit Requirements and FICO Scores
August 27, 2023
While the FHA has set the minimum credit score at 500, most lenders that offer FHA loans typically require a minimum FICO score of 580 or higher to qualify for the 3.5% down payment option. Borrowers with FICO scores below 580 may still be eligible for an FHA loan, but may need to come up with a 10% down payment to get the loan.
Lenders will also review your credit history as an indicator of your past financial responsibility. A history of late payments, collections, or delinquencies can have a negative affect on your ability to qualify for an FHA loan. Generally, they'll probably be looking at the last two years of your credit history.
They'll also pull your credit report from the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) to evaluate your credit history. It's important to review your credit report for accuracy and dispute any errors before applying for an FHA loan.
FHA guidelines typically require borrowers to have a maximum debt-to-income ratio of 43%. This means that your total monthly debts, including your mortgage payment, should not exceed 43% of your gross monthly income.
Your mortgage provider may also consider your employment history, income stability, and overall financial stability when evaluating your creditworthiness. Try not to make big changes right before you apply for a home loan.
If you've had a bankruptcy or foreclosure in your financial history, there are waiting periods before you can qualify for an FHA loan. The waiting period varies based on the circumstances and the type of loan.
If you have a lower credit score or do not meet the FHA credit requirements on your own, you may be able to apply with a co-borrower who has a stronger credit profile.
Since FHA loan requirements can change over time and lenders may tighten their own requirements during tough economic times, it's crucial to consult with an FHA-approved lender or visit the official FHA website for the most current information.
------------------------------
RELATED VIDEOS:
Keep Your Eyes on Your Loan Balance
Learn About FHA Loan Prepayments
Taking Out a Home Loan Makes You a Borrower
FHA Loan Articles
August 19, 2026Homebuyers who have enough cash for a down payment still need to consider their full financial picture before choosing between a conventional mortgage and an FHA loan. Having cash on hand changes the math for both options, but savings alone won't make a conventional loan the automatic winner. Credit scores, current debt, and the type of property you want to buy all determine which loan will cost less over time.
August 11, 2026Homeowners with FHA adjustable-rate loans need to track their loans more closely. That is because FHA ARM loans start with introductory interest rates that eventually expire and are subject to change afterwards based on market rates. When interest rates rise, monthly housing payments climb on ARM loans, pushing many homeowners to consider refinancing into a fixed-rate mortgage.
August 10, 2026If you want to buy a home with an FHA mortgage, you must set up an escrow account to cover property taxes, homeowner insurance, and upfront closing expenses. While the FHA loan program has rules for funding these accounts, buyers often do not realize those rules can include approved and unallowed sources for escrow funds. What do you need to know before you set up and fund your escrow account for an FHA mortgage?
August 3, 2026Buying a home in a high-cost area requires understanding how FHA loan limits shape your financing options. Does the house for sale have a price above the local FHA loan limit? You may need to explore your jumbo loan options. There are conventional jumbo loans and FHA versions. Which is right for you? Much depends on your financial needs, plans, and goals for the loan.
July 30, 2026There is a common misconception about FHA loans that only a first-time home buyer can use the program. This is not true; repeat buyers can qualify for an FHA loan, but why does this misconception exist? Partially because state and local programs have first-time buyer requirements for down payment and/or closing cost assistance programs. So while you do not need to be a first-time buyer to get an FHA loan, you may need to meet that definition to qualify for down payment help.
