USDA Section 504 Home Repair Loans & Grants
USDA Rural Development
Program Overview
The Section 504 Home Repair program provides financial assistance to very low-income rural homeowners to repair, improve, or modernize their homes. Loans are available up to $40,000 at 1% interest for up to 20 years. Grants up to $10,000 are available for homeowners 62+ who cannot repay a loan. Loans and grants can be combined for up to $50,000 in assistance ($55,000 in presidentially declared disaster areas). Funds can be used to remove health and safety hazards, make homes accessible for household members with disabilities, and repair or replace essential systems like roofs, heating, plumbing, and electrical.
Eligibility Requirements
• Very low-income homeowner (up to 50% of area median income)\n• Unable to obtain affordable credit elsewhere\n• Own and occupy home as primary residence\n• Property located in eligible rural area\n• For grants: must be age 62 or older\n• Grants limited to $10,000 lifetime
Additional Requirements
• Income verification\n• Proof of home ownership and occupancy\n• Property eligibility check using USDA tool\n• Age verification for grants (62+)
How to Apply
1. Check property eligibility at USDA Eligibility Site\n2. Contact your local USDA Rural Development office\n3. Submit application with income documentation\n4. USDA will assess home and determine eligible repairs\n5. Work with approved contractors to complete repairs\n6. Repay loan or qualify for grant forgiveness