What Credit Score Do I Need for a Non-QM Loan?
Credit score is one piece of the Non-QM puzzle — but it’s not the only one, and it’s often more forgiving than borrowers expect. Here’s how credit score requirements work across Non-QM programs and what you can do if your score isn’t where you want it.
The Short Answer
Most Non-QM programs require a minimum FICO score of 620 to 660, depending on the program tier, loan amount, and occupancy type. Some DSCR programs accept scores as low as 620. Some specialty programs start at 640. The strongest terms are available at 700 and above.
How Credit Score Affects Your Loan
Your credit score doesn’t just determine whether you qualify — it affects your maximum LTV (and therefore your required down payment), your interest rate, and which program tier you fall into. A 40-point difference in your FICO score can meaningfully change what loan terms are available.
Credit Score Ranges Across Common Programs
| Program Type | Min FICO | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Non-QM Income (A+/A/A−) | 660 | 620 on some investor programs |
| DSCR Investment | 620–640 | Varies by lender; higher score = better LTV |
| ITIN Programs | 660 | No-score allowed on primary, case-by-case |
| Interest-Only Feature | 700 | Applies regardless of program |
| Asset Utilization | 700 | Min 700 across most programs |
| Foreign National DSCR | 680 | If qualifying with U.S. credit; not required otherwise |
How Credit Score Is Determined
On Non-QM loans, the representative credit score is determined as follows: if a borrower has three scores (one from each bureau), the middle score is used. If only two scores are available, the lower of the two is used. When there are multiple borrowers, the borrower with the highest qualifying income sets the representative score — not the co-borrower.
What Happens If My Score Is Below the Minimum?
Options include: paying down revolving balances to improve utilization before applying, resolving any collections or past-due accounts dragging the score down, or working with a credit counselor on a rapid rescore strategy (available on some programs to correct reporting errors only). If your score is below program minimum, it’s worth a conversation — sometimes there’s a path forward through compensating factors or a slightly larger down payment.
Key Takeaways
- Non-QM minimum FICO: 620–660 depending on the program
- 700+ opens up the best terms — interest-only, asset utilization, highest LTVs
- Middle score is used for single borrowers; borrower with highest income sets the representative score for co-borrowers
- No-score borrowers may qualify on primary residence ITIN programs on a case-by-case basis
- Score affects LTV, rate, and program tier — not just eligibility
Serving borrowers throughout California — Orange County, Los Angeles County, Riverside County, San Bernardino County, San Diego County, and the greater Southern California region including Santa Ana, Irvine, Anaheim, Huntington Beach, Fullerton, Garden Grove, and surrounding communities.