Top USDA Mortgage Lenders of January 2026

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If you're buying a home in a rural area (or even a suburb), a USDA loan may be an option. The U.S. Department of Agriculture offers these zero-down-payment loans to borrowers buying properties in eligible areas who meet certain income requirements. USDA loans also typically have lower interest rates than conventional loans — making them an attractive option, particularly for first-time homebuyers.

RateNMLS#2611

5.0

NerdWallet rating

Min. credit score

620

Min. down payment

National / regional

National

Why we like it

Good for: borrowers seeking a solid variety of loan types and a robust online experience.

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at Rate

New American FundingNMLS#6606

4.5

NerdWallet rating

Min. credit score

640

Min. down payment

National / regional

National

Why we like it

Good for: First-time home buyers and other borrowers looking for a broad array of loan choices.

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at New American Funding

First Federal BankNMLS#408902

4.5

NerdWallet rating

Min. credit score

640

Min. down payment

N/A

National / regional

National

Why we like it

Good for: borrowers who want a range of choices, including government-backed options and jumbo loans for investment and multifamily properties.

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at First Federal Bank

NBKCNMLS#409631

4.5

NerdWallet rating

Min. credit score

620

Min. down payment

National / regional

National

Why we like it

NBKC stands out for its attractive interest rates and fees, and is primarily an online lender — though its app does not have mortgage features and chat support is not geared toward mortgage borrowers.

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at NBKC

Rocket Mortgage, LLCNMLS#3030

4.5

NerdWallet rating

Min. credit score

620

Min. down payment

National / regional

National

Why we like it

Rocket Mortgage is the Goliath of home loans in the U.S. It's the largest mortgage lender by volume, and keeps expanding its reach. Fortunately for borrowers, Rocket is a gentle giant, offering affordable borrowing options including a 1% down payment loan.

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at Rocket Mortgage, LLC

Frequently asked questions

Can any lender do a USDA loan?
Not all lenders offer USDA financing. The USDA maintains a list of approved lenders, which includes online lenders and banks with branches nationwide, as well as small-town banks and credit unions. Apply for preapproval with more than one lender to get the best USDA loan rate.
Who qualifies for a USDA loan?
To qualify for a USDA-guaranteed loan, the property must be located in an eligible area. USDA loans also have maximum income limits based on where you live and how many people are in your household. If your income is too low for a USDA guaranteed loan, you may be able to qualify for a USDA direct loan.
Is it hard to get a USDA guaranteed loan?
USDA guaranteed loans don't require a minimum down payment, but other requirements are highly specific. You must be unable to qualify for a conventional loan without private mortgage insurance. Your projected mortgage payment cannot be more than 29% of your gross monthly income. And though the USDA does not have a minimum credit score requirement, lenders may set their own guidelines.
How can I get approved for a USDA loan?
To get approved for a USDA guaranteed loan, reach out to a USDA-approved lender and provide information about your income, assets and debts. Only U.S. citizens or permanent residents are eligible for USDA loans, so you may need to provide proof of that status as well.