FICO Mortgage Direct License Program | Bonelli Financial Group

The mortgage industry continues to evolve, and one of the biggest changes this year comes from FICO. On October 1, 2025, FICO announced a new pricing model that could reshape how credit scores are accessed and priced for borrowers across the country. The new FICO Mortgage Direct License Program allows tri-merge resellers to deliver credit scores directly to lenders and borrowers, cutting out the additional costs usually charged by major credit bureaus.

For borrowers working with the best rated mortgage lenders or a trusted mortgage loan broker, this change could mean more transparency and potentially lower costs in the mortgage approval process. It’s another step toward improving affordability and efficiency for anyone applying for a mortgage, refinance, or investment property loan.

The FICO Mortgage Direct License Program gives tri-merge resellers the right to calculate and distribute credit scores directly to lenders. Traditionally, the major credit bureaus set the pricing for these scores. Now, FICO’s direct licensing model removes that extra layer, allowing resellers to provide more competitive rates.

FICO still licenses only the scoring algorithm, not the credit data itself. The underlying credit information continues to come from the traditional credit bureaus, but this change could simplify how the scores are delivered to lenders and consumers.

For clients working with the best mortgage companies or FHA loan lenders near me, this can make the lending process more straightforward and potentially more affordable.

FICO outlined two pricing structures under the new program:

1. New Direct License Model

$4.95 royalty fee per score, per borrower
$33 funded loan fee per borrower, per score
This model replaces older reissue fees and is intended to make the process more consistent for high-volume lenders.

2. Current Pricing Model

$10 per score, per borrower
Lenders who prefer the traditional approach can keep using the existing system at the same cost.

For mortgage loan brokers and best rated mortgage lenders, the new model could bring savings that ultimately benefit homebuyers.

The Consumer Data Industry Association (CDIA) has voiced concerns, suggesting that the new model could create operational challenges for some resellers. They argue that while FICO provides the scoring algorithm, the actual data still comes from the credit bureaus, so complete independence may be limited.

Still, many mortgage professionals view this as a step toward fairer pricing and stronger competition among the best mortgage companies. In an industry where costs have been climbing, a more direct and transparent process could help both lenders and borrowers.

For borrowers, this update could translate to more competitive pricing and lower credit report fees when applying for a mortgage. It’s especially valuable for those working with FHA loan lenders near me or a mortgage loan broker who focuses on helping clients save wherever possible.

Lower costs and faster score delivery could simplify the pre-approval process, helping homebuyers close more quickly on their new homes.

At Bonelli Financial Group, we make sure our clients understand these industry shifts so they can make confident decisions about their home loans and refinance options.

With mortgage programs constantly changing, working with an experienced lending broker is one of the smartest steps you can take. Our team at Bonelli Financial Group stays ahead of industry trends and partners with the best mortgage companies nationwide to offer clients clear guidance, competitive rates, and fast approvals.

Whether you are buying your first home, refinancing, or investing in real estate, our goal is to simplify the process and help you find a program that fits your long-term goals.

What is the FICO Mortgage Direct License Program?
The FICO Mortgage Direct License Program allows lenders and tri-merge resellers to access FICO scores directly, reducing middleman costs and improving transparency. It’s designed to help mortgage loan brokers and lending professionals provide better pricing for borrowers.
When does the new FICO program take effect?
The program becomes effective January 1, 2026, giving lenders and lending brokers time to adjust their systems and partnerships before the rollout.
How does this change benefit borrowers?
Borrowers could see lower credit report fees and faster pre-approvals, especially when working with best rated mortgage lenders or a trusted mortgage loan broker like Bonelli Financial Group.
Does this mean FICO scores will be cheaper?
Yes, potentially. By removing the additional pricing layer set by major credit bureaus, lenders may pay less for each FICO score — savings that could trickle down to consumers.
What are the main pricing options under the new model?
There are two options: a new direct license model ($4.95 royalty fee per score, plus $33 funded loan fee) and a current pricing model ($10 per score).
How does this affect the best mortgage companies?
Top mortgage companies and FHA loan lenders near me could benefit from fairer pricing and simplified credit score delivery, helping them stay competitive and efficient.
Will this change how my mortgage application is processed?
Not directly, but you might experience faster loan approvals and lower fees if your lender uses the new FICO model.
Is this the same as a change to credit bureaus?
No. Credit bureaus will still manage and sell consumer credit data. The change affects how FICO scores are licensed and priced — not how credit data is gathered.
Why are best rated mortgage lenders excited about this?
Because it brings transparency and control back to lenders, allowing them to serve clients with fairer pricing and more accurate mortgage pre-approvals.
Does this impact FHA, VA, or conventional loans?
All loan types that require a FICO credit score — including FHA, VA, and conventional loans — will be affected by this licensing update.
Should I work with a lending broker to take advantage of this change?
Yes. A qualified lending broker can help you navigate new lending rules, explain potential cost savings, and connect you with best rated mortgage lenders that use the new FICO system.
How can Bonelli Financial Group help with mortgage pre-approvals?
At Bonelli Financial Group, we partner with the best mortgage companies and FHA loan lenders near you to ensure our clients have access to competitive rates, fast closings, and expert guidance every step of the way.

FICO’s new approach may reshape how mortgage credit scores are delivered and priced. For borrowers and professionals alike, the goal is to make the process more transparent and efficient.

If you’re planning to purchase or refinance a home, now is the time to connect with a trusted mortgage loan broker. At Bonelli Financial Group, we work with some of the best rated mortgage lenders across the country to help clients find competitive loan options and secure financing that fits their needs.

Contact Bonelli Financial Group today to get pre-approved and take the next step toward your homeownership goals.

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