On September 10, the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) announced that VantageScore 4.0 and FICO Score 10T will become eligible credit score models for FHA-insured mortgage underwriting for case numbers assigned on or after January 1, 2027. FHA first signaled in May that it planned to accept the two newer models in addition to the traditional FICO score it uses today.
FHA also released a preparedness guide and technical resources to help lenders and their technology vendors get ready for the change. The guidance is intended for planning purposes only and does not change current FHA policy, which remains in effect until formal updates are published. FHA is urging lenders to work with their credit and technology partners now so their systems are ready by the January 1 date.
FHA will hold daily virtual office hours from 2:30 to 3:30 PM ET on the following dates:
- November 16 through 20, 2026
- January 11 through 15, 2027
Questions can be submitted in advance to FHA_SFH_Events@hud.gov with the subject line "Alternative Credit Score Models." Registration instructions will be sent closer to the event dates.
