Minimum credit score for a mortgage by loan type

The minimum credit score for a mortgage depends on the program: FHA around 580 (or 500 with 10% down), conventional 620, and VA/USDA have no federal minimum but most lenders want ~620–640. Hitting the minimum gets you in the door — but a higher score is what gets you a good rate.

Short answer: Minimum mortgage scores vary by program: FHA can allow 580, conventional is commonly 620, and many VA or USDA lenders use overlays around 620 to 640. Jumbo and HELOC approvals usually need stronger credit. If you are near a cutoff, use a Credit Diagnosis before applying so the file can be reviewed for score-suppressing errors.

Minimums by loan type

ProgramTypical minimum
FHA580 (500 with 10% down)
Conventional620
VANo federal min; lenders ~620
USDANo federal min; lenders ~640

The minimum is not the goal

Lender "overlays" often set the bar higher than the program floor, and your rate improves at each tier (640, 680, 720, 740, 760). Aiming well above the minimum is what saves money. Correcting inaccurate items and lowering utilization can move you up a tier before you apply (fixed fee, charged after work; results vary).

FAQ

What is the minimum credit score to buy a house?

FHA allows around 580 (or 500 with 10% down), conventional generally needs 620, and VA/USDA have no federal minimum but lenders usually want about 620-640.

Can I get a mortgage with a 500 credit score?

Possibly through FHA with a 10% down payment, but options are limited and costly. Most buyers benefit from raising their score before applying.

What credit score gets the best mortgage rate?

Rates generally improve in tiers up to about 760-780, where you reach the best pricing. The higher your score, the lower your rate.

Do lenders have stricter requirements than the program minimum?

Yes - lender overlays often set a higher bar than the federal program floor, so the real minimum can be higher than the published one.