Detroit – September 28, 2026 -- Rocket Mortgage will become the first mortgage lender to adopt VantageScore 4.0 as its preferred credit scoring model for eligible loans, starting in the fourth quarter of 2026.
Rocket Mortgage found VantageScore 4.0 qualifies more clients while cutting scoring costs
Following roughly four months of testing, the lender determined VantageScore 4.0 helped more clients move forward in the mortgage process and reduced credit scoring costs. So far in 2026, Rocket Mortgage pulled 1.4 million credit reports using both VantageScore and FICO models to compare outcomes.
Clients who saved with the new model averaged $1,600 at closing
The lender's internal study found VantageScore 4.0 opens access for some clients who would otherwise go unserved and allows many to secure mortgages on better pricing terms. For those who benefited, average savings totaled $1,600 at closing.
Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and VA loans shift to the new default in Q4 2026
During the fourth quarter, Rocket Mortgage will default to VantageScore 4.0 for mortgages delivered to Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, VA home loans and other eligible loan types. The model factors in rent and utility payment history when present in a consumer's credit file, which can generate scores for borrowers with limited credit histories who lack one under conventional models.
Investment properties, jumbo and FHA loans remain on FICO for now
Mortgages for investment properties, second homes, home equity loans, FHA loans and jumbo loans will continue using FICO scores. Rocket Pro, the company's broker channel, will offer both VantageScore and FICO to maintain broker optionality.
Jay Bray, CEO of Rocket Mortgage, said the industry has relied on a single credit scoring model for decades and credited FHFA Director Pulte for encouraging multiple scoring models in pilot programs. Mortgage approval continues to depend on income, debt, assets, property and other loan requirements beyond credit scoring.