Can I get a VA loan with a 580 credit score?
Often yes — 580 is the common lender floor for streamlined VA underwriting, though some lenders go lower with manual underwriting. Below 580, expect stricter underwriting and fewer lender choices.
Plain-English explanation
Lender overlays drive the answer at the low-credit end. Some VA channels stop at 620; broker channels often have lenders down to 580 and a few below. Manual underwriting at sub-580 looks closely at residual income, DTI, recent payment history (12+ months clean is meaningful), and reserves. Subject to lender overlays.
What can change the answer?
Lender overlays vary widely. Recent late payments, collections, disputed accounts, and bankruptcy/foreclosure seasoning can change the answer.
Want the real answer for your VA file?
VA guidelines are the rule. Your COE, entitlement, residual income, property, and Florida costs are what decide the actual answer.
More VA questions on Credit
Educational only. VA guidelines, lender overlays, rates, fees, and underwriting requirements can change. Final eligibility depends on full underwriting review.