TransUnion Launches New Mortgage Pricing Model with VantageScore® 4.0
CHICAGO, Jan. 08, 2026 – TransUnion (NYSE: TRU) has officially rolled out its revised mortgage pricing model, which was first announced on October 17, 2025. This innovative model centers around VantageScore® 4.0, designed to enhance the mortgage lending landscape by providing improved access, reduced costs, and enhanced stability within the U.S. mortgage market.
Key Benefits of VantageScore® 4.0
The introduction of VantageScore® 4.0 brings several key advantages to both lenders and consumers:
- Greater access to loans for qualified homebuyers.
- Lower costs and more predictable pricing for lenders and homebuyers.
- Protection of the integrity of the U.S. mortgage market and economic stability.
Chris Cartwright, President and CEO of TransUnion, emphasized the importance of a safe and affordable mortgage market, stating, “Consumers deserve a safe and cost-effective mortgage market and VantageScore supports these goals.” He added, “VantageScore 4.0, combined with TransUnion, delivers unmatched predictive power leveraging up to 30 months of trended credit data, along with rental and utility tradelines.”
Affordable Access to VantageScore® 4.0
To promote the adoption of VantageScore® 4.0, TransUnion is pricing it at $4 per score for 2026, marking a significant 60% discount compared to traditional FICO scores. This pricing strategy aims to keep underwriting costs consistent with the previous year, yielding substantial savings for both mortgage lenders and consumers. TransUnion is actively collaborating with lenders, resellers, and government-sponsored enterprises (GSEs) to facilitate the widespread adoption of this cost-effective, user-friendly solution.
Challenging the FICO Monopoly
Historically, the mortgage industry has faced limitations due to FICO’s monopoly, which has constrained lending options and inflated costs for consumers. FICO’s soaring royalty fees—over 100% for 2026 and a staggering 1600% increase over the last four years—have been a primary factor driving up mortgage lending data expenses. In contrast, TransUnion’s strategy of combining robust credit data with VantageScore® 4.0 significantly lowers these costs, allowing lenders to maintain operational efficiency without annual price shocks.
Maintaining Market Integrity
TransUnion provides market-leading credit data, forming a solid foundation for secure underwriting processes. The company’s approach ensures that credit scores are accurate, fair, and reliable, which is crucial for the seamless operation of the world’s largest mortgage market.
To learn more about how TransUnion is enhancing the mortgage market, visit TransUnion's official website.
Forward-Looking Statements
This article contains forward-looking statements as defined under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These predictions are based on TransUnion's management's current beliefs and expectations. Actual results may differ significantly from those indicated in the forward-looking statements due to various potential risks and uncertainties.
About TransUnion
TransUnion (NYSE: TRU) is a global leader in information and insights, employing over 13,000 associates across more than 30 countries. The company is committed to empowering consumers and businesses by facilitating trust through accurate data representation. With continuous advancements in technology and innovative solutions, TransUnion plays a pivotal role in creating economic opportunities and enhancing personal empowerment worldwide.