The down payment for an FHA loan depends on the borrowers credit score. For borrowers with a credit score of 580 or above, the down payment is 3.5% of the purchase price. For borrowers with a credit score between 500 and 579, the down payment is 10% of the purchase price. For example, if a borrower is planning to buy a home for $250,000 and has a credit score of at least 580, they will only need a $8,750 down payment. Its important to note that in addition to the down payment, borrowers can expect to pay between 3% and 6% of the mortgage amount in FHA closing costs. FHA home loans also require home buyers to pay mortgage insurance premiums, including an upfront premium of 1.75% of the loan amount.