Credit
Can I get FHA with late payments?
Short answer
Maybe. Old late payments are usually OK. Recent lates — especially mortgage lates in the last 12 months — are a major obstacle.
Plain-English explanation
FHA looks at the recency, frequency, and type of late. One isolated late from 18 months ago is workable; multiple recent lates on a mortgage or rent are usually a deal-killer until the file ages.
What can change the answer?
Recent late payments, thin credit history, disputed accounts, lender overlays, and automated underwriting findings can change the answer.
Want the real answer for your file?
FHA guidelines are the rule. Your credit, income, payment, property, and county limit are what decide the actual answer.
More FHA questions on Credit
Educational only. FHA guidelines, lender overlays, rates, fees, and underwriting requirements can change. Final eligibility depends on full underwriting review.