FICO Launches Cost-Cutting Direct License Program for Mortgage Lending

Core Insights - FICO has launched the FICO® Mortgage Direct License Program, allowing tri-merge resellers to calculate and distribute FICO Scores directly, reducing reliance on credit bureaus and potentially saving lenders up to 50% on per score fees [1][5][6] Pricing Models - The new performance model introduces a royalty fee of $4.95 per score, a 50% reduction from previous fees, and includes a funded loan fee of $33 per borrower per score when a FICO-scored loan is closed [3][4] - Alternatively, lenders can continue with the existing pricing model at $10 per score, which reflects the average price previously charged by credit bureaus [4] Industry Impact - This program aims to enhance cost transparency and reduce credit costs for lenders and borrowers, aligning with industry calls for modernization in the $12 trillion U.S. mortgage market [5][7] - FICO remains a key player in the consumer lending ecosystem, with its score used by 90% of top U.S. lenders, emphasizing its importance in making informed credit decisions [7]