Down Payment Assistance Programs in All 50 States

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If you’re looking to buy a home but feel concerned about the upfront costs, you’re not alone. Saving for a down payment and closing costs can be one of the biggest challenges for homebuyers. Down payment assistance programs are designed to help reduce your out-of-pocket loan expenses and make homeownership more affordable.

Types of Down Payment Assistance

There are four basic types of assistance available:

Grant or down payment gift – This type of assistance does not need to be repaid.
Second mortgage – A loan that is paid alongside your primary mortgage with monthly payments.
Deferred-payment loan – A loan that is repaid only when you sell, refinance, or no longer use the home as your primary residence.
Forgivable loan – A loan that is forgiven after you own and live in the home for a specified period of time.

Qualifying for Down Payment Assistance

Down payment assistance programs are usually aimed at first-time homebuyers, but the criteria to be a “first-time buyer” can include simply not owning a home in the three years leading up to your application.

All DPA programs are different and are affected by state law, and other variables. In most cases, you will not be allowed to use down payment assistance on an investment property or any home that will not be your primary residence.

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Down Payment Assistance Programs By State

The following is a state-by-state list of down payment assistance programs.

Note: Programs change frequently, so check each program’s official website for the latest details on eligibility, requirements, and funding amounts.

Alabama Down Payment Assistance Programs

The Alabama Housing Finance Authority’s (AHFA) Step Up program offers down payment help via a 10-year second mortgage and is, as the official site explains, “combined with a 30-year, fixed-rate first mortgage”.

These loans are serviced by ServiSolutions, a division of AHFA, so homeowners only write one check each month. You must complete a homebuyer education course to qualify. The program is available to borrowers who earn $172,800 or less, regardless of household size or location.

Step Up is available with HFA Advantage conventional, FHA, VA, and USDA loans. Assistance equals 4% of the sales price, up to $10,000.
Borrowers must meet a minimum 640 credit score requirement and have a debt-to-income ratio of 45% or lower.
Homebuyers must apply through a participating lender and may use the program to purchase new or existing homes in Alabama.

Alabama Housing Finance Authority
Alabama State Veterans Benefits

Alaska Down Payment Assistance Programs

The Alaska Housing Finance Corporation offers grant programs that may help eligible homebuyers with purchasing a home.

Program availability, eligibility requirements, and application details vary. More information is available on the AHFC official site.

Alaska Home Loan Programs For Veterans
Alaska State Veterans Benefits

Arizona Down Payment Assistance Programs

The Arizona Industrial Development Authority (Arizona IDA) offers the Home Plus down payment assistance program, which provides up to 4% in down payment and closing cost assistance. The program is available in all counties, cities, and ZIP codes in Arizona and offers both forgivable and non-forgivable options.

Home Plus assistance is available year-round and does not deplete its funding. Borrowers must work with an approved participating lender.

Another statewide option is the Arizona Is Home program, a collaboration between the Arizona Department of Housing (ADOH) and the Arizona IDA. This program offers a below-market 30-year fixed-rate mortgage combined with 4% down payment assistance.

Arizona Is Home is available in all counties except Maricopa and Pima and has a predetermined annual funding limit. Once funds are exhausted, the program pauses until new funding becomes available.

Arizona Department of Housing
Arizona State Veterans Benefits

Arkansas Down Payment Assistance Programs

The Arkansas Development Finance Authority (ADFA) Move-Up program offers a 30-year fixed-rate first mortgage that can be paired with down payment assistance through ADFA’s DPA Program. Borrowers must use the home as a primary residence, have a minimum credit score of 640, and have qualifying income that does not exceed $142,000. There is no first-time homebuyer requirement for the Move-Up program. The maximum purchase price is tied to the Arkansas conventional conforming loan limit.

Another option is the ADFA Down Payment Assistance Program, which provides a second mortgage loan ranging from $1,000 to $15,000 for down payment and closing cost assistance. The DPA loan has a 10-year term and matches the first mortgage. Cash back to borrowers is allowed for expenses paid outside of closing.

Arkansas Development Finance Authority
Arkansas State Veterans Benefits

California Down Payment Assistance Programs

The California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA) MyHome Assistance Program offers down payment help in the form of a deferred-payment junior loan for up to the lesser of 3.5 percent of the purchase price or appraised value for FHA loans, or up to the lesser of 3 percent of the purchase price or appraised value for conventional loans. This assistance may be used for down payment and/or closing costs.

This program is for first-time buyers who have not owned and occupied a non-rental property in the last three years, must occupy the home as a primary residence, and meet CalHFA income limits. At least one occupying first-time borrower must complete an approved homebuyer education course.

California Housing Finance Agency
CalVet Home Loans
California State Veterans Benefits

Colorado Down Payment Assistance Programs

The Colorado Housing Assistance Corporation (CHAC) offers several Down Payment Assistance (DPA) programs for eligible first-time homebuyers in specific areas. Programs are available for properties located in places such as the City and County of Broomfield and Denver County, as well as certain Denver Affordable Housing properties.

In Broomfield, assistance may be available for up to 10 percent of the sales price in the form of a 30-year deferred loan at 0% simple interest. The loan is due upon sale, transfer, or loan expiration. Homebuyers must contribute at least $1,000 or 1% of the purchase price, whichever is greater, and must meet income and debt-to-income ratio limits.

In Denver County and through the Denver Affordable Housing Program, assistance may be available for up to 5 percent of the sales price. Loan terms vary by program and may include deferred payment options or amortizing repayment structures. Income limits, ratio requirements, and property eligibility guidelines apply.

Colorado Housing Assistance Corporation
Colorado Home Loan Programs for Veterans
Colorado State Veterans Benefits

Connecticut Down Payment Assistance Programs

The Connecticut Housing Finance Authority (CHFA) offers a second mortgage down payment assistance program to help eligible buyers cover down payment and closing costs. The interest rate is typically the same as the first mortgage rate, or 5.00%, whichever is less.

Assistance is available for up to $15,000 and is capped at 4 percent of the home’s purchase price or appraised value. Minimum loan amounts apply, and borrowers must qualify for a CHFA first mortgage and complete a homebuyer education course.

Connecticut Housing Finance Authority
Connecticut CHFA Military Mortgage Option
Connecticut State Veterans Benefits

Delaware Down Payment Assistance Programs

The Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA) provides eligible applicants with down payment and closing cost assistance through several second mortgage loan programs.

Preferred Plus assistance provides a no-interest second mortgage loan of 2 percent to 5 percent of your overall loan amount. Repayment is typically deferred until the home is sold, refinanced, or no longer used as a primary residence.

Delaware State Housing Authority
Delaware Home Loan Programs for Veterans
Delaware State Veterans Benefits

Washington, D.C. Down Payment Assistance Programs

The Home Purchase Assistance Program (HPAP) has been offered to low- and moderate-income first-time homebuyers in the District of Columbia. Eligible applicants can receive a maximum of $202,000 in gap financing assistance and an additional $4,000 in closing cost assistance toward the purchase of a single-family house, condominium, or cooperative unit.

Qualified moderate-income borrowers can also get this assistance as an interest-free loan, with payments deferred for the first five years and thereafter amortized over a 40-year period.

Home Purchase Assistance Program
Washington D.C. Veterans Benefits

Florida Down Payment Assistance Programs

The Florida Housing Finance Corporation (FHFC) offers multiple down payment assistance programs, including the HFA Preferred or HFA Advantage PLUS second mortgage programs, as well as another program known as Florida Assist.

Florida Assist provides up to $10,000 as a 0 percent interest, deferred second mortgage loan that can be used for down payment and closing costs. Repayment is deferred until the home is sold, refinanced, or no longer used as a primary residence.

The HFA Preferred and HFA Advantage PLUS programs offer down payment assistance equal to 3 percent to 5 percent of the first mortgage amount. This assistance is structured as a forgivable second mortgage, with 20 percent of the loan forgiven annually over five years, provided the borrower remains in the home as a primary residence.

Florida Housing Finance Corporation
Florida Home Loan Programs for Veterans
Florida State Veterans Benefits

Georgia Down Payment Assistance Programs

The Georgia Dream Homeownership Program (GDHP) is for first-time homebuyers and other qualified buyers who meet program criteria and income limits.

Applicants must contribute a minimum amount toward the home purchase to qualify for assistance, and eligible buyers can receive down payment and closing cost assistance of up to $10,000 under the standard option or up to $12,500 for certain qualified professionals and families with a household member with a disability, subject to income and purchase price limits.

Eligibility caps on income, purchase price, and other requirements apply based on household size and the county where the home is being purchased.

Georgia Department of Community Affairs
Georgia Dream Program For Veterans
Georgia State Veterans Benefits

Idaho Down Payment Assistance Programs

The Idaho Housing and Finance Association (IHFA) offers down payment assistance in the form of either a second mortgage or a forgivable loan.

The second mortgage option can be used for both down payment and closing costs and is available for 2.5% or 3.5% of the sales price when paired with an IHFA First Loan. Key features include:

10-year term with a fixed interest rate and monthly payments
Income limits that vary by county and household size
Minimum credit score of 640 (higher scores may be required depending on loan type)
Completion of Finally Home!® Homebuyer Education
Minimum borrower contribution of 0.5% of the sales price

IHFA also offers a forgivable loan program, which does not require first-time homebuyer status. This program provides up to 3.5% of the sales price and includes:

Tiered loan forgiveness over seven years, with full forgiveness if the borrower remains in the home
Required Finally Home!® Homebuyer Education (one certificate per loan)
Minimum borrower contribution of 0.5% of the sales price

Idaho Housing and Finance Association
Idaho State Veterans Benefits

Illinois Down Payment Assistance Programs

The Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) offers several Access down payment assistance programs, including Access Forgivable, Access Deferred, and Access Repayable options. IHDA may also offer SmartBuy assistance for eligible borrowers with student loan debt when funding is available.

These programs provide down payment and closing cost assistance ranging from approximately $6,000 to $10,000, depending on the specific program and borrower eligibility. Many of these options are structured as second loans. Access Forgivable assistance is forgiven over time if the borrower meets occupancy and loan term requirements, while Access Deferred and Access Repayable programs require repayment under specified terms.

First-time homebuyer requirements may apply depending on the loan type and whether the property is located in a targeted area. Income limits, purchase price limits, and owner-occupancy requirements also apply.

Illinois Housing Development Authority
Illinois Home Loan Programs for Veterans
Illinois State Veterans Benefits

Indiana Down Payment Assistance Programs

The Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA) offers two primary mortgage programs that include down payment assistance: First Place and Next Home.

First Place provides up to 6% of the purchase price (not to exceed the appraised value) in down payment assistance. It is generally limited to first-time homebuyers, unless the property is located in a targeted census tract or the borrower is a veteran. The program is available with 30-year fixed-rate mortgage options. Minimum credit guidelines typically require a 640 FICO score with a debt-to-income (DTI) ratio under 45%, or a 680 FICO score with a DTI between 45% and 50%.

Next Home offers up to 3.5% of the purchase price in down payment assistance and does not require first-time homebuyer status. It is also available with 30-year fixed-rate mortgage options and follows similar credit and DTI guidelines.

Income limits, purchase price limits, and owner-occupancy requirements apply to both programs.

Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority
Indiana Home Loan Programs for Veterans
Indiana State Veterans Benefits

Iowa Down Payment Assistance Programs

The Iowa Finance Authority (IFA) offers the FirstHome program, which provides down payment assistance in the form of either a grant or a loan.

The FirstHome grant provides up to $2,500 in assistance to help cover down payment and closing costs. This grant does not require repayment.

The FirstHome loan option offers assistance of up to 5% of the purchase price, not to exceed $10,000. This assistance is structured as a deferred second loan with no monthly payments and is typically repaid when the first mortgage is refinanced, paid in full, or the home is sold. Income limits, purchase price limits, and homebuyer education requirements apply.

Iowa Finance Authority
Iowa Home Loan Programs For Veterans
Iowa State Veterans Benefits

Kansas Down Payment Assistance Programs

The Kansas Housing Resources Corporation (KHRC) offers a First Time Homebuyer Program that provides down payment assistance to income-eligible borrowers purchasing homes in participating areas of the state. Larger cities and counties such as Topeka, Wichita, Lawrence, Kansas City, and Johnson County are generally excluded, as they operate their own local programs. Borrowers are typically required to contribute between 2% and 10% of the purchase price. Income limits, purchase price limits, and homebuyer education requirements apply.

Kansas also offers statewide assistance options that may provide up to 5% of the loan amount in down payment assistance for qualifying borrowers. Credit score requirements, income limits, and owner-occupancy requirements apply.

Kansas Housing Assistance Program
Kansas State Veterans Benefits

Kentucky Down Payment Assistance Programs

The Kentucky Housing Corporation (KHC) offers two primary down payment assistance (DAP) options for borrowers using a KHC first mortgage.

The Regular KHC DAP provides up to $6,000 in assistance, available in $100 increments. This assistance is structured as a repayable second loan with a 10-year term and a fixed interest rate (historically around 5.50%, though rates may vary). Purchase price limits apply, and the program is available to eligible borrowers receiving a KHC first mortgage.

The Affordable KHC DAP also offers up to $6,000 in assistance but features a reduced fixed interest rate (historically around 1.00%) with repayment over a 10-year term. Borrowers must meet specific DAP income limits in addition to standard program requirements, and purchase price caps apply.

These programs do not include a liquid asset review, and there is no stated limit on borrower cash reserves. Credit score requirements, income limits, and other underwriting guidelines apply.

Kentucky Housing Corporation
Kentucky State Veterans Benefits

Louisiana Down Payment Assistance Programs

The Louisiana Housing Corporation offers multiple down payment assistance programs, including the following:

Market Rate GNMA Program offers up to 4% down payment assistance on 30-year, fixed-rate FHA, VA or USDA Rural Development mortgages.
Market Rate Conventional Program offers down payment help of up to 4%.
MRB Home and Assisted Programs provides up to 4% of DPA for the MRB Assisted Program. Assistance for the MRB Home program ranges between 5-9% (depending on loan amount).
Resilience Soft Second Program provides as much as $55,000 in “Soft Second Assistance” for down payments and up to $5,000 for closing costs on 30-year, fixed-rate FHA, VA, USDA, and Conventional loans. This program may be restricted to targeted areas.

Louisiana Housing Corporation
Louisiana Home Loan Programs For Veterans
Louisiana State Veterans Benefits

Maine Down Payment Assistance Programs

The MaineHousing First Home Loan Program is designed for first-time homebuyers, defined as individuals who have not owned a home within the past three years. The program offers low, fixed-rate mortgage options with affordable down payment features and access to additional assistance.

Through the Advantage option, eligible borrowers may receive up to $5,000 to help cover down payment and closing costs. Homebuyer education through an approved course is required prior to closing, and borrowers must meet minimum contribution requirements along with applicable income and purchase price limits.

MaineHousing
Maine Home Loan Programs for Veterans
Maine State Veterans Benefits

Maryland Down Payment Assistance Programs

The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (MDHCD) Down Payment Assistance and Partner Match Programs offer the following assistance to qualifying borrowers:

Zero-percent interest loans, which typically become payable only when you sell the home or refinance.
Forgivable loans for those occupying/owning the home for the minimum required period.
Down payment and/or closing cost grants offered by MDHCD lending partners.

Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development
Maryland Home Loan Programs For Veterans
Maryland State Veterans Benefits

Massachusetts Down Payment Assistance Programs

MassHousing provides down payment assistance of up to $30,000 for qualifying properties located in Boston and designated Gateway Cities across the state. Gateway Cities include mid-sized urban communities such as Lowell, Lynn, Springfield, New Bedford, Brockton, Lawrence, Fall River, Haverhill, and others identified by the state.

MassHousing also offers down payment assistance for homebuyers purchasing in other Massachusetts communities. Borrowers buying outside Boston and the Gateway Cities may qualify for up to $15,000 in assistance. Income limits, purchase price limits, and homebuyer education requirements apply.

MassHousing
Massachusetts Home Loan Programs for Veterans
Massachusetts State Veterans Benefits

Michigan Down Payment Assistance Programs

The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) offers down payment assistance through its MI Home Loan and MI Home Loan Flex Mortgage programs.

Under the MI Home Loan Mortgage, eligible borrowers may receive a Down Payment Assistance (DPA) loan of up to $10,000 statewide. In certain targeted areas, higher assistance amounts may be available. Completion of a homebuyer education course is required.

The MI Home Loan Flex Mortgage also offers a DPA loan of up to $10,000 statewide. A homebuyer education course is required, and the program is available to both first-time and repeat homebuyers. Income limits, purchase price limits, and other underwriting requirements apply.

Michigan State Housing Development Authority
Michigan State Veterans Benefits

Minnesota Down Payment Assistance Programs

The Minnesota Housing Finance Agency (MHFA) offers several down payment assistance loan options for qualifying borrowers.

The Monthly Payment Loan can be used with the Start Up or Step Up programs. Eligible borrowers may receive up to $18,000 in assistance. The interest rate matches the first mortgage rate, and the loan is repaid in monthly installments over a 10-year term.

The Deferred Payment Loan is available to eligible first-time homebuyers using the Start Up program and provides up to $16,500 in assistance. A Deferred Payment Loan Plus option may offer higher assistance amounts for borrowers purchasing in targeted areas. Deferred loans require no monthly payments and are typically repaid when the home is sold, refinanced, or no longer used as a primary residence. Income limits and purchase price limits apply.

Minnesota Housing Finance Agency
Minnesota State Veterans Benefits

Mississippi Down Payment Assistance Programs

Mississippi Home Corporation provides down payment loans for some qualifying borrowers and down payment grants to others–income caps and credit score requirements apply for these two programs:

Smart Solution Second offers a loan for the borrower’s 3-percent down payment. This is offered via a 10-year second mortgage, which has the same interest rate as the purchase loan.

Smart Solution Plus offers qualifying applicants a four percent “cash advance” as a grant that is not repaid. Income caps and FICO score requirements apply.

Mississippi Home Corporation
Mississippi State Veterans Benefits

Missouri Down Payment Assistance Programs

The Missouri Housing Development Commission (MHDC) offers down payment assistance to qualifying first-time and repeat homebuyers when paired with an MHDC first mortgage. Assistance is typically provided as a forgivable second mortgage equal to approximately 4% of the loan amount, which may be used for down payment and/or closing costs.

The forgivable loan is generally forgiven over a set occupancy period, often up to 10 years, provided the borrower remains in the home as a primary residence. If the home is sold, refinanced, or no longer owner-occupied before the forgiveness period ends, repayment may be required. Income limits, purchase price limits, and standard closing costs apply, and eligibility requirements may vary by location and program option.

Missouri Housing Development Corporation
Missouri Home Loan Programs For Veterans
Missouri State Veterans Benefits

Montana Down Payment Assistance Programs

NeighborWorks Montana offers down payment assistance loans that typically start at $2,500, with higher amounts available in certain areas depending on funding sources and program availability. These loans are designed to help bridge the gap between the home’s total financing needs and the amount approved by the primary mortgage lender.

Eligibility is generally limited to households earning at or below 80% of the area median income (AMI), adjusted for household size. The program commonly serves first-time homebuyers, single-parent households with dependent children, and households that include an individual with a disability.

Assistance availability and maximum loan amounts may vary by region, and some programs are limited to specific qualifying or targeted areas within the state. Income limits, occupancy requirements, and homebuyer education requirements may apply.

NeighborWorks Montana
Montana State Veterans Benefits

Nebraska Down Payment Assistance Programs

The Nebraska Investment Finance Authority (NIFA) offers a Homebuyer Assistance (HBA) Program for borrowers who can contribute at least $1,000 toward their down payment and closing costs.

The HBA Program provides a second mortgage loan of up to 5% of the home’s purchase price, typically structured with a 10-year term. Borrowers should note that the interest rate on the first mortgage is generally higher than NIFA loan options that do not include down payment assistance. Income limits, purchase price limits, and other eligibility requirements apply.

NIFA also offers assistance through its First Home Grant Program, which is available to households with total income at or below 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI). Eligible borrowers may receive grants of up to $10,000, depending on funding availability. These grant funds do not require repayment, but availability is limited each year.

Nebraska Investment Finance Authority
Nebraska Home Loan Programs For Veterans
Nebraska State Veterans Benefits

Nevada Down Payment Assistance Programs

The Nevada Housing Division’s Home Is Possible (HIP) program provides down payment assistance of up to 5% of the home loan amount. Assistance is typically structured as a forgivable second mortgage, rather than a true grant, and may require repayment if the home is sold or refinanced before the forgiveness period ends. A one-time fee applies at closing.

Home Is Possible funds may be used for both down payment and closing costs. The program does not require first-time homebuyer status, is offered statewide, and may be used for eligible manufactured homes.

Program requirements include income limits, purchase price limits, and a minimum credit score. Completion of an approved homebuyer education course is also required.

Nevada Housing Division
Nevada Home Is Possible For Heroes Program
Nevada State Veterans Benefits

New Hampshire Down Payment Assistance Programs

New Hampshire Housing offers the Home Flex Plus (FHA, VA, and RD) and Home Preferred Plus programs, which provide cash assistance of up to 4% of the base loan amount to help cover down payment and closing costs.

This assistance is structured as a forgivable second mortgage. The loan is forgiven after the required occupancy period, provided the borrower remains in the home as a primary residence. If the home is sold, refinanced, or no longer owner-occupied before the forgiveness period ends, repayment may be required. Income limits, purchase price limits, and other eligibility requirements apply.

New Hampshire Housing
New Hampshire State Veterans Benefits

New Mexico Down Payment Assistance Programs

The New Mexico Mortgage Finance Authority (MFA) offers assistance programs to help eligible borrowers with down payment and closing costs.

The FirstDown Program provides down payment assistance in the form of a second mortgage loan that can be used for both down payment and closing expenses. This program is generally limited to first-time homebuyers and must be paired with an MFA first mortgage. Income limits, purchase price limits, and homebuyer education requirements apply.

The NEXTHome Program combines a first mortgage with a down payment assistance second mortgage and is available to both qualifying first-time and repeat homebuyers. The program includes income limits, purchase price caps, and other underwriting requirements.

New Mexico Mortgage Finance Authority
New Mexico State Veterans Benefits

New York Down Payment Assistance Programs

The Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region offers something known as the NYSAR HoThe NYSAR Housing Opportunities Foundation (HOF) offers a grant program to help low- to moderate-income homebuyers across New York State with down payment and closing costs. The grant is typically $2,000 and must be used toward the purchase of an owner-occupied primary residence.

Applicants must be first-time homebuyers, meaning they have not owned a primary residence in the past three years. Household income and purchase price limits apply and must not exceed 110% of SONYMA income and purchase price limits. A licensed REALTOR® must also be involved in the transaction and assist with the application process.

Grant funds are awarded through a monthly lottery. All completed applications submitted during a calendar month are entered into a random drawing, and funding is limited each year.

Community Foundation For The Greater Capital Region
New York Homes For Veterans Program (SONYMA)
New York State Veterans Benefits

North Carolina Down Payment Assistance Programs

The North Carolina Housing Finance Agency offers a down payment assistance program called the NC Home Advantage Mortgage™. Available to both first-time homebuyers and move-up buyers, this program provides a fixed-rate mortgage along with down payment assistance of up to 3% of the loan amount.

A second program, called the NC 1st Home Advantage Down Payment, is available for eligible first-time buyers and military veterans. The official site describes it as a zero-percent, deferred second mortgage of up to $15,000. This loan is forgiven at a rate of 20% per year at the end of years 11 through 15, with full forgiveness at the end of year 15, provided the borrower remains in the home.

North Carolina Housing Finance Agency
North Carolina State Veterans Benefits

North Dakota Down Payment Assistance Programs

The North Dakota Housing Finance Agency (NDHFA) offers the DCA (Downpayment and Closing Cost Assistance) program, which provides an affordable mortgage along with down payment and closing cost assistance for eligible low- and moderate-income borrowers.

DCA program features include income limits that vary by county and family size, occupancy requirements (the home must be owner-occupied), a maximum of two residential units, completion of a homebuyer education course, and use of a participating NDHFA lender to access assistance.

The Start Program is also available for low- and moderate-income buyers and cannot be combined with other down payment assistance programs. It is limited to owner-occupied properties with a maximum of two living units and must be obtained through an NDHFA participating lender.

North Dakota Housing Finance Agency
North Dakota State Veterans Benefits

Ohio Down Payment Assistance Programs

The Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA) offers the YourChoice! Down Payment Assistance program, which provides qualifying borrowers with either 2.5% or 5% of the loan amount. Assistance can be used toward the down payment, closing costs, or other pre-closing expenses.

YourChoice assistance is forgiven after seven years. Borrowers who sell or refinance before the end of the seven-year period may be required to repay some or all of the assistance, depending on the terms of their loan.

OHFA also offers the Grants for Grads program, which includes a discounted mortgage interest rate and down payment assistance of up to 5% of the loan amount. This assistance is forgiven after five years as long as the borrower remains in the home and continues to reside in Ohio. If the home is sold or the borrower moves out of Ohio within five years, partial or full repayment may be required.

Both programs include income limits, credit score requirements, and owner-occupancy rules. For Grants for Grads, applicants must have graduated within the last 48 months from an accredited college or university.

Ohio Housing Finance Agency
Ohio Home Loan Programs For Veterans
Ohio State Veterans Benefits

Oklahoma Down Payment Assistance Programs

The Oklahoma Housing Finance Agency (OHFA) Homebuyer Down Payment Assistance program provides up to 3.5% of the loan amount to be applied first toward any required down payment and then to closing costs. The assistance is structured as a repayable second mortgage and is offered through approved OHFA lenders. Borrowers who do not need down payment assistance may instead choose a discounted interest rate option.

A minimum middle FICO score of 640 is generally required, and applicants must be lawful U.S. residents. The home must be an owner-occupied primary residence — investment properties and second homes are not permitted. Purchase price limits apply statewide, and the program is available in all Oklahoma counties.

Loans are offered as 30-year fixed-rate mortgages for new or existing homes. First-time homebuyer requirements may apply in certain targeted and non-targeted areas. OHFA assistance is available with several loan types, including conventional, FHA, VA and USDA loans, and special rate offers are available for eligible teachers and other qualifying professionals

Oklahoma Housing Finance Agency
Oklahoma State Veterans Benefits

Oregon Down Payment Assistance Programs

Oregon takes a decentralized approach to down payment assistance, with most programs administered by local housing agencies and nonprofit organizations rather than a single statewide program. Assistance is generally aimed at low- to moderate-income buyers, and funding amounts vary by provider and location.

The organizations listed below offer down payment assistance in specific Oregon counties, each with its own eligibility rules, income limits and funding availability.

Many of these programs are supported in part by revenue from Oregon’s document recording fees and certain local Construction Excise Taxes, with funds distributed through Oregon Housing and Community Services to expand access to homeownership across the state

Oregon Housing and Community Services
Oregon ODVA Home Loan Program
Oregon State Veterans Benefits

Pennsylvania Down Payment Assistance Programs

The Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA) offers several down payment and closing cost assistance programs for eligible homebuyers.

The PHFA Grant provides $500 in assistance when used with the HFA Preferred™ (Lo MI) loan, though availability and combinability with other programs may vary. The Keystone Forgivable in Ten Years Loan Program (K-FIT) offers assistance in the form of a second mortgage of up to 5% of the lesser of the purchase price or appraised value. This loan is forgiven at 10% per year over 10 years as long as the borrower remains in the home.

The Keystone Advantage Assistance Loan Program provides a second mortgage of up to 4% of the purchase price or appraised value, capped at $6,000. This loan carries zero interest and is repaid over 10 years. PHFA also administers the HOMEstead program in select areas, offering up to $10,000 in assistance as a zero-interest second mortgage forgiven at 20% per year over five years, depending on county participation and funding availability.

All programs require owner occupancy, and income and purchase price limits apply. Some programs may be limited to targeted areas or specific geographic regions

Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency
Pennsylvania Home Loan Programs For Veterans
Pennsylvania State Veterans Benefits

Rhode Island Down Payment Assistance Programs

Rhode Island Housing offers zero-down mortgage options for qualified borrowers and also administers the 10kDPA program, which provides up to $10,000 in down payment assistance. The assistance is available with a RIHousing-funded first mortgage, and eligibility requirements may vary depending on the loan program used.

Applicants must meet income and credit score requirements, complete a homebuyer education course, purchase a one- to four-unit home in Rhode Island, and occupy the property as their primary residence. First-time homebuyer status may be required under certain loan programs.

Rhode Island Housing also offers an Extra Assistance program that provides additional down payment help to eligible borrowers. Income limits, credit standards and occupancy requirements apply.

Rhode Island Housing
Rhode Island State Veterans Benefits

South Carolina Down Payment Assistance Programs

The South Carolina State Housing Finance and Development Authority (SC Housing) offers a First-Time Homebuyer Program designed to assist low- to moderate-income buyers. In general, applicants must not have owned a home in the past three years unless purchasing in a targeted area, and completion of a homebuyer education course is required.

SC Housing also provides down payment assistance in the form of a second mortgage through participating lenders. Program terms vary, but assistance is typically structured as a forgivable second mortgage with no monthly payments. Forgiveness depends on the borrower meeting occupancy requirements for the full term of the assistance period.

South Carolina State Housing Finance And Development Authority
South Carolina State Veterans Benefits

South Dakota Down Payment Assistance Programs

The South Dakota Housing Development Authority (SDHDA) offers down payment assistance via a program called Fixed Rate Plus, offered by participating lenders. Those who qualify are offered up to 3% “to help with the costs of your mortgage,” including the down payment. The Fixed Rate Plus loan is a second mortgage with zero interest payable on the sale of the home or “satisfaction”.

South Dakota Housing Development Authority
South Dakota State Veterans Benefits

Tennessee Down Payment Assistance Programs

The Tennessee Housing Development Agency provides the Great Choice down payment assistance pThe Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) offers down payment assistance through its Great Choice Plus program for borrowers who qualify for a Great Choice Home Loan.

Assistance amounts vary based on the purchase price and current program guidelines, and funding availability may affect the amount offered. Great Choice Plus is structured as a second mortgage, typically repaid over a set term at the same interest rate as the first mortgage.

Homebuyer education is required to qualify, and borrowers must meet THDA income limits and program eligibility standards..

Tennessee Housing Development Agency
Tennessee Home Loan Program For Veterans
Tennessee State Veterans Benefits

Texas Down Payment Assistance Programs

My First Texas Home is offered to veterans and first-time homebuyers who are first-time buyers or who haven’t owned a home in the previous three years. My First Texas Home down payment assistance can be in the form of a zero percent interest “silent second” loan with no monthly payments. Those who sell, refinance or pay off the original 1^st lien mortgage are required to pay back the down payment assistance.

The Texas Homebuyer Program offers a My Choice Texas Home down payment assistance up to five percent of the loan amount, depending on the type of mortgage. This down payment assistance is for those with income “below a certain level” according to the official site and there are purchase price caps.

Texas Homebuyer Program
TexVet Home Loans
Alternatives to TexVet Loans
Texas State Veterans Benefits

Utah Down Payment Assistance Programs

The Utah Housing Corporation (UHC) offers down payment assistance to borrowers who qualify for a UHC first mortgage. Assistance is typically structured as a 30-year fixed-rate second mortgage and may cover the required down payment and some or all closing costs, depending on the loan program and borrower eligibility.

Down payment assistance amounts and terms vary by loan product and funding option rather than a single fixed percentage. Owner occupancy is required, and the home may not be used as a rental property while the assistance loan is in place.

Homebuyer education may be required for certain borrowers, particularly first-time homebuyers. Applicants should work with a participating UHC lender to determine specific eligibility requirements and whether a homebuyer education course is necessary.

Utah Housing Corporation
Utah UHC Veteran Homebuyer Grant Program
Utah State Veterans Benefits

Vermont Down Payment Assistance Programs

The Vermont Housing Finance Agency (VHFA) offers the ASSIST Second Mortgage program to eligible first-time homebuyers, generally defined as those who have not owned a home in the past three years. Asset limits and other eligibility requirements apply. ASSIST is available in combination with certain VHFA first mortgage programs, including VHFA Move, Move MCC and Advantage loans.

Pre-purchase homebuyer education is required as a condition of approval. The program provides up to $5,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance.

The ASSIST loan is a 0% interest, payment-free second mortgage with a 30-year term. Repayment is typically due when the first mortgage is paid off, refinanced or when the home is sold.

Vermont Housing Finance Agency
Vermont State Veterans Benefits

Virgin Islands Down Payment Assistance Programs

The Virgin Islands Housing Finance Authority (VIHFA) administers down payment assistance through funding provided under the federal HOME Investment Partnerships Program, established by the National Affordable Housing Act of 1990.

The HOME program is designed to expand affordable housing opportunities for very low- and low-income households. Assistance is generally targeted to first-time homebuyers and may be provided in the form of low-interest loans or other subsidies to help cover down payment and closing costs or reduce overall mortgage expenses.

Eligible applicants may include single individuals, couples and families with children. Homebuyer assistance is typically limited to first-time buyers, while rehabilitation assistance requires the applicant to own and occupy the home as a primary residence. Household income must fall within HUD’s annually published HOME income limits.

Virgin Islands Housing Authority
Virgin Islands Veterans Benefits

Virginia Down Payment Assistance Programs

The Virginia Housing Development Authority (Virginia Housing) offers a Down Payment Assistance Grant for eligible first-time homebuyers using a Virginia Housing first mortgage.

The non-repayable grant is typically up to 2% to 2.5% of the loan amount and may only be used with eligible Virginia Housing loan programs. In certain cases, the first mortgage must meet specific loan-to-value requirements if paired with other acceptable non–Virginia Housing funds. The grant may not be combined with the Virginia Housing Plus Second Mortgage.

Minimum credit score standards apply, and household income must fall within program limits. The Virginia Housing first mortgage must also be locked on or after the program’s effective implementation date to qualify.

Virginia Housing Development Authority
Virginia State Veterans Benefits

Washington Down Payment Assistance Programs

The Washington State Housing Finance Commission (WSHFC) offers multiple down payment assistance programs. These include:

Home Advantage DPA provides up to 5% of the first mortgage total or gross loan amount depending on the loan.
Home Advantage DPA Needs Based Option offers up to $10,000, for borrowers using a Home Advantage loan and who meet income limits.
Opportunity DPA offers as much as $10,000, for borrowers using a “House Key Opportunity” loan.
Veterans DPA for as much as $10,000 for military veterans.
HomeChoice DPA provides down payment funds up to $15,000 for buyers with a disability or disabled family member living with them.

These programs are offered in the form of repayable loans. As the official site states, “Our down payment assistance is only for homebuyers who use our home loan programs” and income limits also apply.

Washington State Housing Finance Commission
Washington Home Loan Programs For Veterans
Washington State Veterans Benefits

West Virginia Down Payment Assistance Programs

The West Virginia Housing Development Fund (WVHDF) offers down payment and closing cost assistance through its Homeownership and Movin’ Up loan programs.

Assistance amounts vary based on the specific loan program, loan-to-value ratio and current funding guidelines rather than fixed statewide dollar tiers. Down payment assistance is typically structured as a repayable second mortgage loan with below-market or favorable terms.

The Homeownership program is generally intended for first-time buyers in non-targeted areas (defined as those who have not owned a home in the previous three years), while the Movin’ Up program is designed for repeat buyers who meet income and eligibility requirements. Borrowers must work with a participating lender to determine available assistance amounts and current program terms.

West Virginia Housing Development Fund
West Virginia State Veterans Benefits

Wisconsin Down Payment Assistance Programs

The Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA) offers two primary down payment assistance options.

WHEDA Easy Close DPA provides a down payment assistance loan of up to 6% of the loan amount when paired with a WHEDA Conventional first mortgage, with similar options available for certain government-backed loans. Income limits and other eligibility requirements apply. This assistance is structured as a loan, not a grant.

WHEDA Capital Access DPA offers a down payment assistance loan with a maximum amount based on program guidelines, generally calculated as a percentage of the loan amount (with a minimum dollar threshold). Income caps and additional restrictions apply.

Borrowers must occupy the home as their primary residence, and while first-time homebuyer status is not always required, the property must be located in Wisconsin.

Wisconsin Housing And Economic Development Authority
Wisconsin Home Loan Programs For Veterans
Wisconsin State Veterans Benefits

Wyoming Down Payment Assistance Programs

The Wyoming Community Development Authority (WCDA) has two down payment assistance programs The Wyoming Community Development Authority (WCDA) offers down payment assistance through loan programs available to eligible borrowers using a WCDA first mortgage.

Assistance amounts and borrower contribution requirements vary by program and funding availability rather than a single fixed statewide maximum. A minimum credit score (often around 620) is generally required.

WCDA’s Home$tretch DPA Loan Product is typically structured as a zero-interest second mortgage with no monthly payments, and repayment is due upon sale, refinance or payoff of the first mortgage. The Amortizing DPA Loan Product features a fixed interest rate with monthly payments, usually repaid over a set term such as 10 years.

Wyoming Community Development Authority
Wyoming State Veterans Benefits

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Written by Jeff Ousley

Jeff Ousley is an Air Force veteran and mortgage credit specialist passionate about guiding people toward homeownership.