FHA Credit Score Requirements 2026: What You Actually Need

Illustrative scenarios for educational purposes only. Not a quote, lock, offer, or commitment to lend. FHA Annual MIP rates; UFMIP is 1.75% of the base loan amount and is typically financed. Conventional PMI rates vary by mortgage insurer, credit score, and LTV. Property taxes and homeowner's insurance vary by location and carrier. Binding figures appear on your Loan Estimate after a complete application. Simply Approved Mortgages LLC, NMLS# 2620881. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Next steps

Pay for Your Credit Report →

Emailing your FHA payment and limit calculators scenario opens our secure request form so a Simply Approved Mortgages Loan Officer can review those numbers. Estimates are illustrative and are not a quote, lock, offer, or commitment to lend.

Wholesale advantage

Compare loan officer compensation on your mortgage quote

Loan officer compensation is part of the cost of a mortgage. On eligible residential loans, Simply Approved Mortgages generally uses 1.5% lender-paid compensation. Enter the compensation shown on another lender's Loan Estimate to see the difference in dollars.

Loan amountCompensation % on another quoteExample only, change to your quote2.75% is a sample starting number, not a claim about any lender. Enter the figure from your own Loan Estimate.

Simply Approved Mortgages compensation (1.5%)$4,500

Quote you entered (2.75%)$8,250

Compensation difference on this illustration: $3,750.

How lower compensation can help you

Room for a lower rate

When less compensation is built into pricing, there can be room for a lower interest rate, which may lower your monthly payment.

Possible credits toward closing

Depending on the rate you choose, pricing can sometimes include a lender credit toward third-party closing costs, so you may bring less cash to closing.

More purchasing power

A lower rate means a lower monthly payment, which can lower your debt-to-income ratio and may help you qualify for more home on the same income.

Wholesale, not retail

As a mortgage broker we compare pricing from wholesale lenders instead of offering a single bank’s retail pricing.

Tip: On page 2 of your Loan Estimate, look at Section A, "Origination Charges." If the lender pays the loan officer, that compensation usually does not appear there as its own line; it is built into the interest rate. That is why comparing the rate and any lender credits side by side matters.

Get a second opinion on your Loan Estimate

Already have a Loan Estimate from another bank or broker? Share it with a Simply Approved Mortgages Loan Officer, who will compare the rate, fees and credits side by side with options we can arrange. No cost to request a review.

First nameLast nameEmailPhoneProperty stateLoan purposeEstimated purchase priceEstimated credit scoreTimeframeUpload your Loan EstimatePDF or photo, up to 10 MB (optional)Choose fileI agree. By checking this box and submitting this form, I provide my express written consent to receive calls and messages from or on behalf of Simply Approved Mortgages LLC (NMLS #2620881) at the telephone number(s) and email address(es) I provide, including for marketing and telemarketing purposes. Communications may be made using live agents, an automatic telephone dialing system or other automated technology, prerecorded or artificial voice messages, AI-generated or AI-assisted voice technology, SMS/MMS text messages, and email, even if my telephone number is listed on a state or federal Do Not Call registry.I confirm that I am the subscriber or customary user of the telephone number(s) provided and am authorized to provide this consent. Message and data rates may apply. Message frequency varies. Reply STOP to opt out of text messages or HELP for help.My consent to receive automated, prerecorded, artificial-voice, AI-generated, or marketing communications is not a condition of purchasing any property, good, or service, applying for a mortgage, or receiving mortgage services or information from Simply Approved Mortgages LLC. I may revoke my consent at any time.All loans are subject to applicable lender underwriting, eligibility requirements, and approval.

Illustration only — not a quote, lock, offer, or commitment to lend; binding figures appear on your Loan Estimate. Lender-paid compensation is paid by the lender, not directly by you, and is part of the loan's pricing, so the loan is not free of costs. A lower compensation figure does not by itself guarantee a lower rate or lower closing costs; individual results vary by credit, loan type, property and market conditions. Residential lending in FL and CO only. Simply Approved Mortgages LLC · NMLS #2620881 · Equal Housing Opportunity.

Get Ready

Document Checklist for Your Loan Application

Gathering these documents up front helps your Simply Approved Mortgages Loan Officer issue a stronger pre-approval and move your loan to Clear-to-Close faster. Actual items required vary by scenario — your loan officer will confirm the final list.

Choose your income type

Only the income documents that apply to you are shown. Switch tabs if you have multiple income sources — your loan officer will confirm which apply.

W-2 / Employed Income

✓Most recent 30 days of paystubs (all borrowers, all jobs)
✓W-2s for the last 2 years (all employers)
✓Two-year employment history with employer names, addresses, and dates
✓Verification of Employment — written (WVOE) or electronic (EVOE through a third-party payroll service); your loan officer orders it with your signed authorization
✓Employment reverification within 10 days before closing — verbal or electronic, required on every file
✓Bonus / commission / overtime: 2-year history if used to qualify
✓Recent job change: offer letter and first paystub after start date
✓Retirees / fixed income: Social Security award letter, pension statements, 1099-R

Assets & Reserves

✓Most recent 2 months of bank statements (all pages)
✓Most recent quarterly statement for retirement / brokerage / 401(k)
✓Gift funds: signed gift letter + donor bank statement + transfer proof
✓Large deposit letters of explanation with source documentation

Identity & Residency

✓Government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport)
✓Social Security card or ITIN letter
✓Two years of residency history with addresses

Credit & Liabilities

✓Written credit report authorization
✓Letter of explanation for any late payments, collections, or inquiries
✓Bankruptcy discharge papers or foreclosure documentation (if applicable)
✓Child support / alimony order (if paying or receiving)
✓Divorce decree / separation agreement (only if applicable)

Property & Purchase

✓Fully executed purchase contract with all addenda
✓Earnest money deposit receipt + source of funds
✓Homeowners insurance quote (binder before closing)
✓HOA / condo questionnaire and dues statement (if applicable)

FHA-Specific Documentation

✓FHA case number assignment (ordered by your loan officer)
✓CAIVRS clearance authorization
✓For DPA: down payment assistance program application + subordination docs
✓For non-occupying co-borrower: proof of relationship
✓For manufactured home: HUD tags, foundation certification, land title

Educational checklist only. Not a commitment to lend and not a complete list of conditions. Documentation requirements are governed by agency guidelines (Fannie Mae Selling Guide, FHA Handbook 4000.1 incl. Update 18 (August 12, 2026), VA Lender's Handbook, USDA HB-1-3555) and individual investor overlays. Your Simply Approved Mortgages Loan Officer will provide your specific document list based on your scenario.

Credit Documentation & Monitoring

Credit Reports and Credit Monitoring for your loan

Credit is one of the four underwriting buckets every lender reviews — and one of the few you can actively improve before you apply. Monitoring your credit throughout the process helps you catch errors, fraud, and score changes early, which protects your approval timeline and your rate.

Step 1 · Lender Pull

Ordering Credit for Your Pre-Approval File

Once you sign your loan application (Form 1003) and disclosures, your Simply Approved Mortgages Loan Officer orders a tri-merge residential mortgage credit report (RMCR) from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. This is a hard inquiry, but FICO's model treats mortgage inquiries within a 45-day window as a single event, so shopping lenders during that window will not stack on your score.

What we need from you: signed borrower authorization, government-issued photo ID, Social Security number (or ITIN), and current address.
What the report shows underwriters: middle FICO score, open tradelines, minimum payments, late history, collections, public records, and recent inquiries.
How long it's valid: 120 days for conventional loans and for FHA/VA/USDA (HUD guidelines, VA Lender's Handbook Ch. 4). Older reports must be re-pulled before closing.
Rapid rescore: if a legitimate error is on your report, we can request a rapid rescore in 3–7 business days after you supply documentation from the creditor.

This link redirects to our third-party credit vendor's payment portal. You pay the report fee directly so we can pull your tri-merge credit report for your pre-approval file. A credit pull is required for underwriting; this is not a commitment to lend.

Step 2 · Self-Check

Review and Monitor Your Credit at MyITINCredit.com

Before we pull your file, review and monitor your credit at MyITINCredit.com. Their $1 promotional trial gives you tri-bureau visibility plus ongoing credit monitoring so you can catch changes, disputes, or new accounts as they appear — not after they've already delayed your loan.

Verify accuracy: confirm names, addresses, SSN/ITIN, and every open account belong to you.
Dispute errors: the Fair Credit Reporting Act gives you the right to dispute inaccurate items directly with the bureau — no charge.
Address collections and charge-offs: a settled or paid collection can be documented in advance so it does not stall underwriting.
Pay down utilization: credit-card balances reported below 30% of the limit typically produce the strongest scores.
Avoid new credit: do not open new cards, finance a car, or co-sign for anyone from now through closing.
Monitor continuously: credit monitoring alerts you to new inquiries, balance changes, and potential identity theft while your loan is in process.

Check & Monitor Your Credit at MyITINCredit.com →

MyITINCredit.com is a service operated by Simply Approved Corporation (a DBA of that entity), which is the parent company of Simply Approved Mortgages LLC. Simply Approved Mortgages may receive subscription revenue if you choose to enroll. Credit monitoring through MyITINCredit.com is optional and is not required to apply for or obtain a mortgage with us. Promotional pricing, trial terms, and monitoring features are set by MyITINCredit.com and subject to change.

Why credit monitoring matters during a mortgage — A single new collection, missed payment, or unauthorized inquiry can change your qualifying score or trigger additional underwriting conditions. Typical minimum scores* — Conventional 620, FHA 580 (3.5% down) or 500 (10% down), VA no HUD minimum (most lenders 580–620), USDA typically 640, Jumbo 680–740, Doctor Mortgage 680–700+, Non-QM/DSCR varies by program, ITIN 620–680 alternative credit. Investor and lender overlays apply; individual results vary. Not a commitment to lend.

Down Payment Assistance

FHA + Down Payment Assistance — how it works and why it fits

Down Payment Assistance (DPA) is a second-lien loan or grant that helps cover your down payment, closing costs, or prepaids. DPA programs are run by state Housing Finance Agencies (HFAs), municipalities, non-profits, and approved lenders. FHA financing pairs with DPA more often than any other loan type — here is why.

FHA explicitly permits DPA from approved sources

Per HUD Handbook 4000.1, 100% of an FHA borrower’s 3.5% Minimum Required Investment may come from an approved source: a documented gift, an HFA program, a government agency, an employer, a non-profit, or a family member. Conventional 3%-down programs are stricter about which DPA structures they accept.

Lower credit thresholds line up with DPA borrowers

FHA allows a 580 FICO at the 3.5% down level (and 500–579 with 10% down). Most state HFA DPA programs use a 620–660 floor, but FHA-paired DPA structures (including Simply Approved Mortgages DPA) commonly sit a little higher — the Simply Approved Mortgages DPA uses a 600 lowest-middle-score floor — while still reaching the borrowers who most need cash assistance.

No first-time buyer requirement (with most FHA-pair DPAs)

Many state HFAs require first-time buyer status (defined as no ownership in the past 3 years). FHA itself has no first-time requirement, and some lender-offered DPA structures — including Simply Approved Mortgages DPA — drop that restriction so repeat buyers can use it too. Always confirm the specific program’s rule.

Higher seller credits stack on top

FHA permits seller concessions up to 6% of the sales price toward closing costs, prepaids, and discount points. Stacked with DPA, many FHA buyers reach the closing table with $0–$3,000 of their own funds. (Seller credit cannot exceed actual closing costs; excess requires a price/appraisal adjustment per HUD.)

Income limits are often more flexible

FHA itself has no income cap. State HFA DPA programs typically do (often 80–140% of Area Median Income). Non-HFA DPA structures, including Simply Approved Mortgages DPA, may waive the income cap entirely, which helps middle-income borrowers in higher-cost counties.

You keep cash for reserves and life after closing

Using DPA does not "cost" you the down payment — it shifts it to a second lien you repay over time. That preserves emergency savings for the inevitable first-year homeowner expenses: appliance failures, repairs, property taxes, and insurance escrow shortages.

Handbook clarification · Update 18 · August 12, 2026

Is FHLB set-aside money a grant or a second mortgage? FHA now says either structure works.

Quick answer: HUD Handbook 4000.1 (Update 18) confirms that Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) Affordable Housing Program Homeownership Set-Aside funds are an acceptable FHA down payment source and may be structured as either a grant or secondary financing. The structure matters more than the label:

Structured as a grant: the FHLB records a retention agreement that creates a deed restriction — not a second lien — and the FHLB keeps control of any repaid funds.
Structured as secondary financing: the funds create a lien and follow FHA secondary-financing rules. They are not treated as a gift or grant even if no payments are required or the balance is forgiven over time.
Availability: set-aside funds flow only through FHLB member lenders, household income generally must be at or below 80% of area median income, and each district’s annual funding is limited. Simply Approved Mortgages is not an FHLB member bank — if set-aside funds fit your scenario, we will say so and compare them against the programs we do offer.

Source: HUD Handbook 4000.1, “Federal Home Loan Bank Homeownership Set-Aside Program,” as clarified by Update 18 effective August 12, 2026. Educational summary — not affiliated with HUD, FHA, FHFA, or the FHLBank system.

What to watch for with any DPA program

Repayable vs. forgivable vs. grant. Repayable DPAs are amortized second liens. Forgivable DPAs are forgiven over time if you stay in the home. Grants never need to be repaid. Each affects your monthly payment and equity differently.
Interest rate on the second lien. Repayable DPA seconds typically price 1–3% above the first mortgage rate. The combined payment matters — not just the first-lien rate.
First-mortgage rate adjustment. Some HFA programs add a small rate premium to the first mortgage in exchange for DPA. The trade-off can still be worth it; just confirm the all-in cost.
Recapture / due-on-sale rules. Many forgivable DPAs trigger full repayment if you sell or refinance before the forgiveness period ends. Read the note.
Homebuyer education. Most DPA programs require a HUD-approved homebuyer education course (typically 8 hours, completed within 6 months of closing).
Geographic and program limits. Many programs are state- or county-specific, and some exclude particular states or U.S. territories. Confirm availability where you are buying.

Our in-house program

Simply Approved Mortgages DPA

A repayable 10-year fixed second lien that stacks with FHA 203(b) and FHA 203(k) purchase loans.

Assistance tiers

3.5% or 5%

Calculated on

Lesser of price or appraised value

Min. credit score

600 FICO (lowest middle score)

Income cap

None

First-time buyer required?

Pairs with

FHA 203(b) & 203(k)

Second-lien term

10-year fixed

Second-lien rate

First-mortgage rate + 2.00%

Not available in NY, WA, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, or American Samoa. Subject to credit, underwriting, and property approval. The funds can be applied to your down payment, closing costs, or prepaids. Non-traditional credit may be considered case-by-case. HUD-approved homebuyer education is required within six months of closing. Simply Approved Mortgages LLC, NMLS# 2620881. Equal Housing Opportunity. We are not affiliated with HUD, FHA, VA, or the U.S. government. All figures illustrative — not a quote, lock, offer, or commitment to lend. Final terms appear on your Loan Estimate.

Down payment assistance

Stack a grant on top of your loan — and close with thousands less

DPA programs are grants, forgivable second mortgages, or deferred loans that cover some (or all) of your down payment and closing costs. They stack on FHA, VA, USDA, HomeReady, and Home Possible. Income and area limits apply.

Why down payment assistance matters

How DPA helps, why it can help, and why American buyers use it

The single biggest obstacle for most first-time and moderate-income buyers is not credit or income — it is the cash needed to close. Down Payment Assistance (DPA) programs are designed to bridge that gap so qualified buyers can stop renting and start building equity sooner.

How DPA helps

DPA delivers funds — as a grant, forgivable loan, deferred second mortgage, or repayable second lien — that can be applied to your down payment, closing costs, or prepaid escrows. That means less cash out of pocket at closing and, in many cases, the ability to keep savings intact for reserves, moving expenses, and emergencies.

Why it can help you

The CFPB and HUD both confirm that thousands of federal, state, county, and city DPA programs exist. Many buyers assume they will not qualify — but most DPA programs allow moderate incomes, non-first-time buyers, or workforce occupations like teachers, nurses, and first responders. Layering DPA on an FHA, VA, USDA, or Conventional loan is one of the fastest ways to shorten the "how long until I can buy" timeline.

Why Americans should use it

The Federal Reserve's Survey of Consumer Finances shows homeowners typically hold far more household wealth than renters at comparable income levels. DPA does not lower the price of a home — it lowers the barrier to entry so more American families can start building that equity sooner, using government-backed programs paid for with public and philanthropic funds already set aside for that purpose. Unused DPA dollars simply return to the program pool at year end.

Educational information only. DPA eligibility, funding availability, income limits, purchase-price caps, occupancy rules, and repayment terms vary by program and change without notice — always confirm details directly with the program administrator. Simply Approved Mortgages is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by HUD, FHA, VA, USDA, FHFA, the CFPB, or any state Housing Finance Agency. All loans subject to credit approval and underwriting. Equal Housing Opportunity. NMLS# 2620881.

National & federal

Verify any DPA program on these official sources

State Housing Finance Agencies

Top-volume state DPA programs

California

CalHFA

Texas

TSAHC / TDHCA

Florida

Florida Housing

New York

SONYMA

Arizona

Arizona IDA — Home Plus

Colorado

CHFA

Georgia

Georgia Dream

North Carolina

NCHFA

Illinois

IHDA

Pennsylvania

PHFA

Ohio

OHFA

Nevada

Home Is Possible

Start My Approval →See Today's Rates →

Don't see your state? Every state has at least one Housing Finance Agency — find yours through NCSHA's directory.

Simply Approved Mortgages DPA

Simply Approved Mortgages DPA — no income cap, no first-time buyer requirement

For FHA purchase borrowers, Simply Approved Mortgages offers a repayable 10-year fixed second lien covering 3.5% or 5% of the lesser of the purchase price or appraised value. Minimum 600 credit score, primary residence only. The second-lien rate is 2% higher than the first mortgage and can be used for down payment, closing costs, or prepaids.

Start My Approval →

Not available in NY, WA, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, or American Samoa. Program subject to investor and FHA underwriting guidelines; not a grant. The second lien is repayable over 10 years and generally may not be resubordinated for 3–10 years depending on the assistance amount. Final eligibility and terms are determined only after a full application and underwriting review.

Simply Approved Mortgages DPA

DPA amount calculator & eligibility checker

Estimate your Simply Approved Mortgages Down Payment Assistance at 3.5% or 5% of the lesser of purchase price or appraised value, and see the 10-year repayable second-lien structure layered on top of a 30-year fixed FHA first mortgage. Then check whether you meet the core program rules.

Amount calculator

Purchase priceAppraised value

Assistance tier (% of lesser of price or appraisal)

Illustrative 1st-mortgage interest rate (%)Used only to show the 2nd-lien rate (1st rate + 2%). Not a quote.

Lesser of price or appraisal: $400,000
Estimated DPA at 3.5%: $14,000
2nd-lien term: 10-year fixed, repayable
2nd-lien rate (illustrative): 8.500% (1st rate + 2%)
Estimated 2nd-lien monthly P&I: $174/mo

Illustrative only — not a quote, lock, offer, or commitment to lend. Actual assistance, rate, and payment depend on the final loan amount, your credit profile, appraisal, and program guidelines in effect at closing. Binding figures appear only on your Loan Estimate and Closing Disclosure.

Eligibility checker

Your approximate credit score600+ lowest middle score required (620 on manufactured homes). No-credit and non-traditional credit files are not eligible.How will you occupy the property?Property type

Do you have documentable, qualifying income (W-2, self-employment, retirement, etc.)?

Are you willing to complete an approved homebuyer education course before closing?

Is the property located in NY, WA, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, or American Samoa?

Answer each question above to see your preliminary eligibility result.

This is a preliminary self-check, not an underwriting decision or a credit decision. It does not pull your credit and is not a quote, lock, offer, or commitment to lend. Program rules, fees, costs, terms, and conditions are subject to change without notice. Simply Approved Mortgages is not affiliated with HUD, FHA, the VA, USDA, FHFA, CHFA, FHFC, metroDPA, or any government agency. Equal Housing Opportunity. NMLS# 2620881.

Next steps

Start My Approval See Today's Rates

Emailing your Down payment assistance calculator scenario opens our secure request form so a Simply Approved Mortgages Loan Officer can review those numbers. Estimates are illustrative and are not a quote, lock, offer, or commitment to lend.

Not sure which DPA fits you?

We confirm DPA eligibility at pre-approval — free, no commitment

Tell us your zip code and income; we'll match you to every grant and second-mortgage DPA you qualify for and build the stack on your Loan Estimate.

Start My Approval →

DPA programs are administered by federal, state, and local agencies — terms, income limits, and funding availability change frequently and without notice. Simply Approved Mortgages is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by HUD, FHA, VA, USDA, or any state Housing Finance Agency. Verify all program details directly with the issuing agency before applying. All loans subject to credit approval and underwriting. NMLS# 2620881.

Trusted government resources

These independent government resources can help you research mortgage programs, rates, and your rights before you apply.

Simply Approved Mortgages is not affiliated with HUD, the CFPB, the FTC, the VA, or any other government agency. Links are provided for your independent verification.

FAQs reviewed by Simply Approved Mortgages · November 2026

Still have questions? Get answers on your scenario

Start a short request and a Simply Approved Mortgages Loan Officer responds within one business day with next steps and a document checklist.

Frequently Asked Questions About FHA Credit Score Requirements 2026

Answers to the most common about FHA credit score requirements 2026 questions, written by licensed loan officers.

HUD's published floor is 500 with 10% down, or 580 for the standard 3.5% down payment option. That said, most lenders layer on their own overlay — typically somewhere in the 580-620 range — so the real cutoff for you depends on which lender underwrites the file.

Ask Sam AI

Ask SAM anything about mortgages

SAM is the Simply Approved Mortgages AI assistant. It answers general questions using the reviewed guides published on this site and links you to the primary government source. It is educational only — it does not quote a rate, payment, APR, approval or commitment to lend. A Simply Approved Mortgages Loan Officer reviews every scenario before any terms are confirmed.

Hi, I'm SAM — an AI assistant for Simply Approved Mortgages. I can explain loan programs, closing costs, DTI, down payments and which calculator or guide to use. I'm not a licensed loan officer, and nothing here is a quote, approval or commitment to lend.

Ask Sam AI provides general educational information only. It is an automated assistant, may be incomplete or out of date, and does not provide legal, tax or financial advice. Nothing it produces is a rate quote, APR, pre-approval, offer or commitment to lend. Never share a Social Security number, ITIN, date of birth, account number or password in chat. Simply Approved Mortgages LLC (NMLS #2620881) arranges residential mortgage loans in Florida and Colorado. Eligibility, terms, conditions and availability vary by borrower, property, lender, loan program and state, and all loans are subject to lender underwriting and approval. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Follow our reporting

Add Simply Approved Mortgages as a preferred source on Google

We update these guides as HUD, FHFA, VA, USDA and CFPB publish new figures. If you want our updates to show up more often when you search Google, you can mark us as a preferred source from the Top Stories carousel:

1Sign in to your Google account and search a mortgage topic such as "mortgage rates".
2Select the icon next to "Top stories" to open the preferred sources panel.
3Search for Simply Approved Mortgages, tick the box, and save.

Google's preferred sources help

Preferred sources is a Google Search feature controlled entirely by you and by Google. Simply Approved Mortgages LLC (NMLS #2620881) does not control search results and makes no representation about how or whether our content will appear. Educational content only — not a quote, lock, offer, or commitment to lend.

Local FHA hubs

FHA loans by state

FHA rules are federal, but limits, DPA programs, and property nuances are local. Jump to your state hub for county limits, local DPA layers, and a directory of every city and county.

State hub

FHA Loans in Colorado

FHA loan limits, DPA programs, and local guidance for every Colorado county and metro.

Open the Colorado FHA hub →

State hub

FHA Loans in Florida

FHA county limits, insurance considerations, and DPA options across Florida.

Open the Florida FHA hub →

FHA product library

Explore every FHA loan product and topic

Deep-dive references on each FHA program, insurance rule, waiting period, and qualifying calculator.

FHA Loans — Complete Guide

Every FHA program, requirement, and current rule in one place.

FHA 203(b) Purchase

The standard 3.5%-down FHA purchase loan.

FHA 203(k) Renovation

Buy + renovate in one FHA loan.

FHA Streamline Refinance

Faster refinance for existing FHA loans.

FHA Cash-Out Refinance

Tap equity up to 80% LTV.

FHA HECM Reverse Mortgage

HUD-insured reverse mortgage for age 62+.

FHA Loan Limits

County floor, ceiling, and how limits are set.

FHA Mortgage Insurance

UFMIP, Annual MIP, and payoff timing.

FHA Appraisal Requirements

HUD MPR standards and what appraisers check.

FHA Gift Funds

Who can gift, documentation, and the paper trail.

FHA DTI Calculator

Run your ratios against FHA benchmarks.

FHA vs Conventional

Compare total cost by credit tier.

FHA Waiting Periods

BK, foreclosure, and short-sale timelines.

How this page connects

Where this fits in the FHA lending library

This page sits inside our FHA lending coverage.

What most readers open next

The FHA loan guideBecause the program rules every FHA page below builds on.
FHA loan limits by countyBecause the county ceiling decides the largest FHA loan a property can carry.
How FHA mortgage insurance worksBecause upfront and annual MIP change the monthly payment and how long it lasts.
The FHA debt-to-income toolBecause to see how your existing payments affect the loan amount.
The FHA cash-to-close estimatorBecause to separate down payment from closing costs and prepaids.
FHA appraisal and property standardsBecause condition issues stop more FHA files than credit does.

Explore the full guide

Keep reading — the rest of the buying playbook

Each of these is a deep-dive on one piece of the purchase mortgage process. Bookmark whichever you need next.

Guide

FHA 203(b) Purchase Loan

The standard FHA purchase mortgage this score tier applies to.

Guide

FHA Manual Underwriting

What happens when your file needs a human underwriter, not just an AUS.

Guide

Low Credit Score Mortgage Options

Programs beyond FHA for buyers rebuilding credit.

Guide

How to Improve Credit for a Mortgage

Practical steps to raise your score before applying.

Guide

Credit Score to Buy a House

How score tiers affect every loan program, not just FHA.

Guide

FHA Collections and Charge-Offs

How derogatory accounts are actually treated in FHA underwriting.

Home Affordability Calculator

Internal library

Related mortgage guides across our library

Follow the next relevant guide for your scenario.

FHA loans

FHA loan library

Simplify Your Mortgage Journey with These Resources

Home Value Report

Check Your Credit

Mortgage Calculator

Pay for my Credit Report

Mortgage Document Checklist

Down Payment Assistance

Native American Home Loans

FHA Loan Limits