Know which underwriting method is being used
Fannie Mae’s current guide lists no minimum credit score for Desktop Underwriter casefiles. Its manual-underwriting rules generally list 620 for fixed-rate loans and 640 for adjustable-rate loans, with specified exceptions. Credit history is still evaluated. Fannie Mae — General Requirements for Credit Scores ↗
Ask which credit score model was used
Fannie Mae now permits all approved lenders to use VantageScore 4.0 for eligible loans underwritten through Desktop Underwriter, but lenders that are not operationally ready may continue using eligible Classic FICO models. A lender choosing VantageScore 4.0 must use that model for every borrower on the same loan. Manually underwritten loans continue to use Classic FICO. Fannie Mae — Lender Letter LL-2026-06, updated September 30, 2026 ↗
Model choice does not determine the whole offer
Fannie Mae aligned its credit-score loan-level price adjustment grids across Classic FICO and VantageScore 4.0 for specified deliveries beginning October 1, 2026. That alignment applies to Fannie Mae's delivery pricing; it does not make the score values identical or require every lender to produce the same rate, fees, approval decision, or retail pricing. Compare complete written offers using the same loan amount, term, points and lock period. Fannie Mae — Simplified pricing across credit score models ↗
Do not treat a score as an approval
The lender must still review the rest of the application and may apply its own requirements. Ask which underwriting method and lender policy apply to your scenario instead of relying on an online statement that every conventional loan requires 620.
Prepare a focused credit conversation
Bring questions about recent changes, disputed information, or debts that may need clarification. Ask which score model was ordered, whether another supported model could change the lender's eligibility or pricing analysis, what has been verified, and which conditions remain. Avoid opening or closing accounts or authorizing extra credit pulls solely on a generic internet tip while a loan is under review.
PUT IT INTO PERSPECTIVE
An example, not an offer
Illustration only: one written option uses Classic FICO and another uses VantageScore 4.0. Comparing the two score numbers alone does not identify the better loan. Compare the rate, APR, points, lender credits, fees, cash to close and remaining approval conditions using matching assumptions.
Organize a preapproval review →Related questions
Check the original guidance
- Fannie Mae — General Requirements for Credit Scores ↗
- Fannie Mae — Lender Letter LL-2026-06, updated September 30, 2026 ↗
- Fannie Mae — Simplified pricing across credit score models ↗
Requirements and availability can change. Confirm the program and lender terms for your application.