Illinois First-Time Homebuyers Can Get Up to $15,000 Through Access Home

Illinois Access Home Offers Up to $15,000

Illinois first-time homebuyers may be able to get up to $15,000 for down payment and closing costs through the Access Home program from the Illinois Housing Development Authority.

The help is offered as a zero-interest silent second mortgage. Repayment is deferred for up to 30 years, unless the home is sold, refinanced, or the mortgage is paid off earlier.

How Much Help Is Available?

Access Home offers 6% of the purchase price, up to $15,000, for down payment and closing costs.

Who May Qualify

• Homebuyers and their spouses must be first-time homebuyers, unless exempt
• Eligible veterans may be exempt
• Buyers purchasing in a targeted area may be exempt
• Household income and purchase price limits apply
• A minimum credit score of 640 is required
• The home must be used as the buyer's primary residence
• Homeownership education must be completed before closing

What Homes Are Eligible?

Both new construction and existing homes may qualify. The program is available in all Illinois counties through approved IHDA Mortgage lenders.

How to Apply

Homebuyers apply through an IHDA-approved lender. The lender can check income limits, purchase price limits, credit requirements, and loan options.

Deadline or Window

No fixed end date was listed. The program is active now and is based on available funding and lender participation. Buyers should apply before making final purchase plans.