There are multiple steps and qualifications to actually securing an FHA loan. But in order to even be considered for a loan, you will have to meet certain criteria. You must have been employed for the past two years (not necessarily at the same place, but preferably). Your income at your job needs to have been steady or on the rise. Any major credit problems need to be several years old (such as bankruptcies, delinquencies, and foreclosures). By meeting these guidelines, you can move past the prequalification stage and focus on meeting the other fha loan qualifications.