Home repairs can be expensive – and for low-income homeowners, seniors, and people with disabilities, a leaking roof, broken furnace, or failing electrical system can quickly become a crisis. Several federal, state, and nonprofit programs offer free or low-cost home repair assistance to people who qualify.
USDA Section 504 Home Repair Program
The USDA’s Section 504 Home Repair Program provides loans and grants to very low-income rural homeowners. Grants of up to $10,000 are available to homeowners age 62+ who can’t afford a loan, specifically to remove health and safety hazards. Loans of up to $40,000 are available to repair, modernize, or improve homes. Income must be below 50% of the area median income. Apply through your local USDA Rural Development office at rd.usda.gov.
Weatherization Assistance Program
The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) provides free energy efficiency improvements – insulation, air sealing, heating and cooling system upgrades, and window repairs – to low-income households. The goal is to permanently reduce energy bills. Income limits are generally 200% of the federal poverty level. Contact your local community action agency to apply. WAP serves homeowners and renters (with landlord permission).
Community Development Block Grants (CDBG)
HUD’s Community Development Block Grant program funds a wide range of local housing programs, including home repair grants and loans for low-income residents. Program availability and eligibility vary by city and county – some areas run active home repair programs funded through CDBG, others don’t. Contact your local government’s community development or housing department to find out what’s available in your area.
Habitat for Humanity Home Repair
Habitat for Humanity offers home repair and critical home repair programs in many areas through its local affiliates. Services range from accessibility modifications (ramps, grab bars) to structural repairs. Income limits vary by affiliate. Find your local affiliate at habitat.org.
Rebuilding Together
Rebuilding Together is a national nonprofit that provides free home repairs and accessibility modifications to low-income homeowners – particularly seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities. Services are provided by volunteer crews and focus on safety and accessibility. Find your local affiliate at rebuildingtogether.org.
VA Grants for Veterans With Disabilities
Veterans with service-connected disabilities may qualify for VA housing grants to modify their home for accessibility:
- Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) grant – Up to $117,014 (2026) for veterans with severe mobility disabilities
- Special Home Adaptation (SHA) grant – Up to $23,444 for certain disabilities affecting use of the home
- Temporary Residence Adaptation (TRA) grant – Helps modify a family member’s home temporarily
Apply through the VA at va.gov or call 1-800-827-1000.
State and Local Programs
Many states and counties run their own home repair assistance programs – particularly for seniors and low-income homeowners. Programs may cover emergency repairs, accessibility modifications, or lead and mold remediation. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging, community action agency, or state housing finance agency to find out what’s available.
See what programs you may qualify for.
Use the Benefits Finder tool to check housing assistance, utility help, and more based on your household situation.
Money Instructor does not provide legal or financial advice. This material has been prepared for educational and informational purposes only. Program availability, income limits, and grant amounts change. Verify current details with the administering agency before applying.