What is considered a good credit score for a mortgage?

Higher scores generally lead to more favorable pricing across most programs, but what counts as 'good enough' depends on the specific loan program and other factors in your file.

Can I get a mortgage with a 580 credit score?

It is possible with certain programs, such as FHA, that often reference 580 as a threshold for lower down payment options, though individual lenders may set their own requirements above that.

Does my score affect my interest rate?

Yes, credit score is one of several factors that can influence pricing, along with loan-to-value ratio, loan type, and current market conditions.

How often should I check my credit before applying?

Checking a few months before you plan to apply, and again shortly before applying, can help you catch errors or address any surprises with enough time to respond.

Credit & Qualification

What Credit Score Do I Need for a Mortgage?

Q: Do all lenders use the same credit score minimums?

No. Loan programs set general guidelines, but individual lenders can apply their own overlays that are stricter than the program minimum.

There is no single universal credit score requirement for a mortgage. Learn how minimums vary by loan program and what else lenders review.

Updated 2026-08-17| Applies to: Anyone trying to understand roughly where their credit score fits within common mortgage program guidelines before applying.

The short answer

There is no single credit score required for every mortgage; minimums vary by loan program, lender, and other factors like down payment and debt-to-income ratio. FHA loans often allow lower minimum scores than conventional loans, while jumbo loans and investment property loans frequently expect higher scores. Meeting a program's minimum score does not guarantee approval, since the full financial picture is reviewed together.

Why is there no single answer to this question?

Mortgage guidelines are set by loan program, and each program, such as conventional, FHA, VA, or USDA, has its own general minimum credit score guidance. On top of that, individual lenders can apply their own overlays, meaning they may require a higher score than the program's baseline. This is why two lenders can give different answers for the same borrower.

How do minimums generally compare across programs?

Program	General score range often referenced	Notes
Conventional	Often 620 and above	Lower scores may mean higher pricing or larger down payment
FHA	Often 580 and above for lower down payment options	Some lenders consider scores below that with a larger down payment
VA	No official minimum set by VA, but lenders often set their own	Availability depends on eligible military service
USDA	Often around 640 as a common lender benchmark	Property and income eligibility also apply
Jumbo	Often higher, frequently 700 or above	Larger loan amounts often mean more conservative guidelines

What else matters besides the score itself?

Debt-to-income ratio, which compares monthly debt payments to gross monthly income.
Down payment size, since a larger down payment can sometimes offset a lower score.
Cash reserves, meaning savings left over after closing.
Length and depth of credit history, not just the numeric score.
Recent derogatory marks, such as late payments in the last twelve to twenty-four months.

Can I qualify with a score right at the program minimum?

It is possible, but scores right at a program's minimum often come with tradeoffs, such as higher pricing, a larger required down payment, or more scrutiny of other parts of the file. Lenders weigh compensating factors, like stable income or lower overall debt, which can sometimes help offset a lower score.

Should I wait to apply if my score is on the lower end?

This depends on your specific numbers and goals. A loan officer can review your credit report and run scenarios to show how your score, combined with your income and debts, affects your options today versus what might change if you wait and work on your credit for a few months.

Credit score guidelines referenced here are general and can change. Actual eligibility depends on the specific lender, program, and your complete financial profile.

Common mistakes to avoid

Assuming a single number applies to every loan program
Not checking your actual credit report before assuming your score disqualifies you
Overlooking how debt-to-income ratio and reserves can offset a lower score
Applying without exploring whether a slightly different program fits your score better
Making large purchases or opening new credit right before applying

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