What Credit Score Do You Need for a Mortgage?
What Credit Score Do You Need for a Mortgage? Last updated: April 6, 2026 The credit score you need for a mortgage depends on the loan type, the lender, and the rest of your financial profile. In practice, many borrowers see around 620 as a common conventional benchmark, FHA allows lower scores in some cases, VA has no official minimum credit score, and USDA does not publish a single minimum but usually requires deeper review below 640 . Your score affects not only whether you may qualify, but also the rate you may receive. Short Answer Here is the simple version most borrowers need: - Conventional: many lenders look for about 620 or higher , especially on stricter or manually underwritten files - FHA: 580+ can qualify for 3.5% down , while 500–579 usually requires 10% down - VA: no official VA minimum credit score , but lenders may set their own rules - USDA: no single published minimum , but scores below 640 us...