Our exclusive low credit score FHA loan program can be used to purchase or refinance a home. This program offers enhanced flexibility through both automated and manual underwriting options.
The minimum credit score requirement can be as low as 560 with a 10% down payment. Borrowers with a 580 or higher credit score may qualify with just 3.5% down.
A 580 credit score FHA mortgage is often a strong path forward for borrowers who have compensating factors that offset a lower score. Compensating factors may include long-term employment stability, additional savings or reserves beyond the minimum down payment, and documented on-time rent or housing payments over the past 12 to 24 months.
FHA manual underwriting is what makes homeownership possible for many borrowers with lower credit scores. During this process, the underwriter conducts a detailed review of your loan file, including your written explanation of past credit issues, your most recent 12-month payment history, verified income, and employment stability.
| Key Points | Benefits |
|---|---|
| FHA loan program designed for low credit scores | Allows borrowers with past credit challenges to qualify for home financing |
| Credit scores as low as 560 with 10% down | Provides a viable path to homeownership when conventional loans are not an option |
| 580+ credit score eligible for 3.5% down payment | Lower upfront cash requirement compared to many alternative loan programs |
| Manual underwriting available | Your full financial profile is considered, not just your credit score |
| Compensating factors considered | Strong employment history, savings, or on-time rent can offset lower credit scores |
| Review of recent 12-month payment history | Recent responsible credit behavior can outweigh older credit issues |
| Available for purchase or refinance | Flexible use for buying a home or improving your current loan terms |
The FHA 580 credit score mortgage can be a strong option for first-time homebuyers who do not have a large down payment or the higher credit scores typically required for conventional loans.
In addition to your credit score, FHA underwriters will review the following factors when evaluating your loan application:
| Qualification Item | FHA Guideline |
|---|---|
| Recent Credit Activity | No new derogatory accounts opened within the past 12 months. Medical collections are generally excluded. |
| Judgments or IRS Liens | Must be paid in full or documented in an approved repayment plan. |
| Chapter 7 Bankruptcy | Must be discharged for more than 2 years, with no late payments after discharge. |
| Chapter 13 Bankruptcy | Eligible after 12 months of on-time payments with trustee approval and no late payments. |
| Foreclosure | Eligible after 3 years, provided there are no late payments after the foreclosure. |
| FHA Back to Work Program* | Foreclosure may be allowed if the property has been removed from your name for at least 12 months and you can document a qualifying loss of income. |
Can I qualify for an FHA loan with a 580 credit score?
Yes. Borrowers with a minimum 580 credit score may qualify for an FHA loan with as little as 3.5% down, subject to income, debt-to-income ratio, and underwriting approval.
What if my credit score is below 580?
FHA guidelines may allow credit scores as low as 560 with a 10% down payment, depending on overall credit history, compensating factors, and lender underwriting requirements.
What are compensating factors for FHA manual underwriting?
Compensating factors may include long-term employment stability, additional cash reserves, low payment shock, or documented on-time rent or housing payments over the past 12 to 24 months.
Do medical collections affect FHA loan approval?
Medical collections are generally excluded from FHA credit score calculations and do not automatically disqualify a borrower, though the overall credit profile is still reviewed.
Can I get an FHA loan after bankruptcy?
Yes. Chapter 7 borrowers may be eligible after a two-year discharge period, while Chapter 13 borrowers may qualify after 12 months of on-time payments with trustee approval, provided no late payments have occurred.
Is an FHA loan available after foreclosure?
FHA loans may be available after three years from the foreclosure completion date, assuming satisfactory credit behavior since the event and no recent late payments.
Janus Mortgage is the premier mortgage broker in San Diego County. We have the home loan solution you need to make your home ownership dreams come true. Call us today to make an appointment to speak with a professional loan counselor.
Janus Mortgage is a mortgage broker licensed in the State of California under the auspices of the California Department of Real Estate license number 02038085 and the National Mortgage License Registry NMLS Number 1690954. All offers for loan programs are made for loans on California only. Disclaimer/Copyright Info: 2026 Copyright, Janus Mortgage – Terms and conditions apply.
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