520 Credit Score Refinance
A 520 keeps standard refinancing out of reach, but a streamline can still lower the rate on an FHA or VA loan.
By Onias Derilus, Mortgage Capital · NMLS# 1859012 · Last Updated: June 2026
A 520 credit score is below the 620 needed for a standard or cash-out refinance. The realistic option is a streamline. If you already hold an FHA or VA loan, FHA Streamline and VA IRRRL can reduce your payment without re-checking credit, making them the practical refinance route at 520.
What 520 Can and Cannot Do
A 520 cannot refinance into a conventional loan or pull cash out, since both require the 620 minimum and a full credit review. That door stays closed until the score rises.
It can, however, benefit from a streamline. These programs target existing FHA and VA borrowers and lean on recent mortgage payment history rather than a score pull, so a clean 520 file can still qualify to lower a rate.
| Refinance Type | Available at a 520 Score? |
|---|---|
| Conventional rate-term | No (needs 620) |
| Cash-out | No |
| FHA Streamline | Often yes |
| VA IRRRL | Often yes with a VA loan |
520 Score Refinance — FAQ
Through a streamline, often yes. Standard and cash-out refinances need 620, but FHA Streamline and VA IRRRL usually skip the score check, so a 520 with on-time recent payments may still lower its rate.
No. Cash-out refinancing requires at least 620 and a full credit review. A 520 is limited to streamline programs, which lower the rate but do not let you take equity out.
A Refinance With a 520 Score?
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Rates are illustrative only. APR and payments vary by credit score, loan amount, and market conditions. Subject to credit approval. Not a commitment to lend. NMLS# 1859012. Equal Housing Lender.