Core Insights - FICO has launched a new Mortgage Direct License Program allowing mortgage lenders to purchase FICO scores directly from Fair Isaac Corporation, bypassing the traditional credit bureaus [1][2] - This new system enables lenders to work with third-party "tri-merge" resellers to obtain credit data from all three major bureaus and then acquire the FICO score directly [2][3] - The initiative aims to eliminate middlemen, reducing costs associated with credit score purchases, which could lead to lower fees for borrowers in the long run [3][5] Industry Impact - Lenders now have the option to either continue using credit bureaus or to directly access FICO scores, providing them with more flexibility in their operations [4] - The potential for cost savings from direct access to FICO scores may eventually benefit borrowers through reduced fees, although immediate changes may not be evident [5][6] - The impact on borrowers will depend on the lenders' choices regarding the new system, indicating variability in experiences across different lenders [6][7]