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What Credit Score Do You Need for a Mortgage?
Minimum credit scores for FHA, conventional, VA, and USDA loans — plus how to improve your score before applying.
July 9, 20267 min readBy MyWealthForge
Key Takeaways
- 1FHA loans: 580+ with 3.5% down; 500–579 with 10% down.
- 2Conventional: 620 minimum; 740+ for best rates.
- 3VA loans: no official minimum, but lenders often want 620+.
- 4Improve score 3–6 months before applying — see our credit guide.
Your credit score directly affects mortgage approval and your interest rate. A 60-point difference can cost $50,000+ over 30 years.
Check credit score ranges before you apply.
Score Requirements by Loan Type
FHA is most forgiving. Conventional loans need 620+. VA and USDA have flexible guidelines but lender overlays apply.
Use our mortgage calculator with different rate scenarios.
Improve Before You Apply
Pay down card balances below 30% utilization. Dispute errors. Avoid new credit 6 months before applying.
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