Credit Score Models and Reports Initiative
FHFA announces next phase of public engagement process for updated credit score requirements
The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) has announced additional opportunities for ongoing public engagement to facilitate the transition to updated credit score models and credit report requirements for loans acquired by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac (the Enterprises). This engagement, which will include stakeholder forums and listening sessions, will allow for identification of a wide variety of issues, opportunities, and challenges related to successful implementation of the new requirements, including potential refinements to the timeline for adoption.
Interested parties who wish to participate in this process should send their name, affiliation, and contact information to [email protected]. Those who wish to participate in the initial sessions should respond by September 25, 2023.
View the announcement or Partner Playbook for more information.
Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac (the GSEs) have begun the next phase of the joint GSE Credit Score Models and Reports Initiative. As a reminder, our work for this initiative will include:
- Moving from the current Classic FICO credit score model to require lenders to use two credit scores generated by the FICO Score 10 T and the VantageScore 4.0 models.
- Requiring two, rather than three, credit reports from the national consumer reporting agencies – moving from the current tri-merge report model to a bi-merge model.
Details about the initiative, including proposed timelines and FAQs, can be found in our Partner Playbook. We’ll continue to update the playbook as needed, adding important information and links to resources as the implementation plan is finalized and the initiative progresses. Check back often to be sure you’re on track.
Previous Announcements & Statements
Current Credit Score Model
In accordance with the requirements of the Validation and Approval of Credit Score Models Rule (12 C.F.R. Part 1254), Fannie Mae performed the required assessments for the Classic FICO credit score model and determined that Classic FICO should be approved for continued use by Fannie Mae. The Federal Housing Finance Agency announced its approval of this determination on Nov. 10, 2020. This was an incremental step until further updates in accordance with the Rule.
