Illinois offers 50 down payment assistance programs to help homebuyers cover their down payment and closing costs. This includes 14 grant programs that never require repayment. Programs range from statewide options administered by the state housing finance agency to local city and county programs targeting specific communities.
Maximum assistance available reaches $100,000 through the most generous program. Credit score requirements start as low as 640 for some programs. Most programs require the home to be your primary residence, and many require homebuyer education.
Top Down Payment Assistance Programs in Illinois
Highlighted programs that combine high assistance amounts with statewide or major-metro availability. See the full list below.
DuPage Housing Authority Down Payment Assistance Program
verifyDuPage & Kendall Housing Authority (DHA) in partnership with HOPE Fair Housing Center
Varies; $100,000 total program pool launched January 2025
Building Neighborhoods and Affordable Homes Program
openCity of Chicago
$100,000
IHDA SmartBuy
verifyIllinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA)
15% of purchase price (UP TO (max $5,000 down payment assistance plus UP TO 15% of purchase price (UP TO $40,000) toward student loan payoff)
HACC County-Wide Homeownership DPA
verifyHousing Authority of Champaign County (HACC)
UP TO $40,000
Chicago Home Buyer Assistance
openCity of Chicago Department of Housing
CHA DPA: $10,000 - $20,000; MMRP: UP TO $30,000 in designated areas; NLS: UP TO $30,000
Grant Programs (14)
Grants are the gold standard of down payment assistance. You receive the money and never have to pay it back.
DuPage Housing Authority Down Payment Assistance Program
DuPage & Kendall Housing Authority (DHA) in partnership with HOPE Fair Housing Center
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Income limits apply; DHA Housing Choice ...
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Income Limits
Income limits apply; DHA Housing Choice Voucher participants prioritized
Check AMI limits for your county →Repayment Terms
Grant — no repayment required
Additional Requirements
Program announced January 29, 2025. Administered with HOPE Fair Housing Center. Limited total funding pool of $100,000. Contact DHA at 711 E. Roosevelt Road, Wheaton, IL 60187.
Notes
Primarily targets DHA program participants seeking homeownership
IHDA SmartBuy
Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- IHDA standard income limits apply by cou...
- Min Credit Score
- 640+
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- $40,000
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Repayment Terms
Program currently closed; repayment terms to be confirmed upon next funding round
Additional Requirements
Through two rounds of funding the program eliminated $33 million in student loan debt and served 533 homeowners. Currently closed for new locks pending new funding allocation.
Notes
First-time homebuyers with student loan debt
NHS Chicago NLS Down Payment Assistance Grant
Neighborhood Lending Services, Inc. (NLS) / NHS Chicago
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Income limits apply; varies by program t...
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Repayment Terms
Grant — no repayment required
Additional Requirements
NLS is a nonprofit Illinois Residential Mortgage licensee (#M0000661). Multiple sub-programs available through NLS including CHA DPA (up to $10K-$20K) and MMRP grants (up to $30K — currently not accepting applications). DPA identified by NLS loan originator at application.
Notes
Program no longer accepting applications as of April 2026. NHS Chicago purchase assistance grants page confirms applications closed.
Cook County DPA Pilot
Cook County
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Not specified
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Repayment Terms
Grant. no repayment
Additional Requirements
Launched June 2024; initial funding fully allocated; exploring additional funding
Purchase Assistance Program
Neighborhood Housing Services of Chicago, Inc.
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Townhouse/PUD, Condominium, 2 units, 3 units, 4 units
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Down Payment Assistance
Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde - Housing
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Down Payment Assistance Program
South Suburban Housing Center
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Townhouse/PUD, Condominium
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
City of Decatur Homebuyer Assistance Program
City of Decatur Community Development
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Based on HUD Median Family Income (MFI) ...
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- $120,000
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
Based on HUD Median Family Income (MFI) for Decatur; thresholds at 30%, 50%, 60%, 80% MFI; income limits updated June 1, 2024
Check AMI limits for your county →Repayment Terms
Grant — no repayment required
Additional Requirements
HOME Program funded; citywide program; related Decatur Homebuyer Initiative (DHI) by CICD targets neighborhood revitalization; CICD homebuyer education workshops available; contact City of Decatur Community Development for current funding status
Notes
First-time buyers preferred (no ownership in past 3 years)
Aurora Homebuyer Assistance Program
City of Aurora Community Development Department
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- 80% AMI
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Income Limits
80% of Area Median Income (approximately $89,700 for 4-person household)
Check AMI limits for your county →Repayment Terms
Grant — no repayment required; 3-year occupancy commitment
Additional Requirements
NRSA boost available for purchases in designated Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy Areas
Notes
Not explicitly limited to first-time buyers; verify with city
H.O.M.E. DuPage Homestead Program
H.O.M.E. DuPage Inc. (DuPage Homeownership Center) — HUD-approved nonprofit
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Low-moderate income
- Min Credit Score
- 660+
- Property Types
- condo, townhome, multi-family
- Max Price
- $280,000
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
Low to moderate income; based on HUD AMI for DuPage County; specific limits at homedupage.org
Check AMI limits for your county →Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
Second mortgage: 0% interest, deferred; repaid upon sale or when home no longer serves as principal residence. Closing grant: no repayment required.
Additional Requirements
HUD-approved nonprofit housing counseling agency (501c3); $40 homebuyer education class fee; $18/applicant credit report fee; $400 admin fee at closing only if purchase completed; also connects buyers to IHDA and FHLBank Chicago programs
Notes
No ownership of principal residence in past 3 years; all household members 18+ must attend homebuyer education
Chicago Community Connections Homebuyer Assistance
City of Chicago Department of Housing
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Income limits apply; varies by household...
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- condo, 1-4 unit
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- VA
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- No
Repayment Terms
Grant — forgivable; specific forgiveness period to be confirmed with City of Chicago DOH
Additional Requirements
Federally funded program open to U.S. citizens; property must be 1-4 unit residential or condo used as primary residence
Notes
First-time homebuyers required (no ownership in last 3 years); both first-time and repeat buyers may qualify per some sources
Romeoville ASSIST Homebuyer Assistance Program
Village of Romeoville (multi-municipality ASSIST program)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Low-moderate income
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Income Limits
Low to moderate income; income and purchase price limits apply
Check AMI limits for your county →Repayment Terms
Cash gift — no repayment required
Additional Requirements
Village of Romeoville participates with 75+ Illinois municipalities and counties in the ASSIST program. Also includes Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC) option for additional federal income tax credit.
Notes
First-time homebuyers with low to moderate income
Urbana Down Payment Assistance Program
City of Urbana Grants Management Division
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Income-qualified households required
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Repayment Terms
Contact program for repayment terms
Additional Requirements
Part of the Urbana HOME Consortium with City of Champaign and Champaign County
Notes
Must purchase within Urbana city limits; income qualification required
City of Springfield Home Ownership Program (SHOP)
City of Springfield Community Development
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Low income
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
Low income; HUD AMI limits for Springfield/Sangamon County (IHDAccess Home county income limit for reference: $131,905 for Sangamon County)
Check AMI limits for your county →Repayment Terms
Typically deferred or forgivable upon continued occupancy; specific terms to be confirmed with City of Springfield
Additional Requirements
HOME Investment Partnerships Program funded; verify current funding availability directly with City of Springfield Community Development; can be layered with IHDA Access Home ($15,000 statewide) for maximum benefit
Notes
First-time homebuyers required
Forgivable Loans (14)
Forgivable loans are forgiven after a set period of living in the home. If you stay, you keep the money.
Chicago Home Buyer Assistance
City of Chicago Department of Housing
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Not specified
- Income Limit
- Varies by sub-program
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Repayment Terms
Forgivable after set period; terms vary by sub-program
Additional Requirements
Multiple sub-programs: CHA DPA ($10K - $20K, was closed as of Oct 2025. verify current status), MMRP grants (up to $30K in designated areas), NLS grants (up to $30K). Income and credit requirements vary by sub-program
Notes
Requirements vary by sub-program. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence
Will County We WILL Build DPA
Will County Community Development Division
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
0% interest deferred forgivable loan
Additional Requirements
Minimum $2,500 buyer contribution required
Notes
First-time buyers only
IHDA Access Programs
Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- 640+
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Repayment Terms
Some options forgivable, some repayable; terms vary by specific Access program
Notes
Available to first-time and repeat buyers
West Cook Homeownership Center Down Payment Assistance
West Cook Homeownership Center (program of Oak Park Regional Housing Center)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Low-moderate income
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- townhome
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
Low to moderate income; based on HUD AMI for Cook County area
Check AMI limits for your county →Repayment Terms
Varies by sub-program (grants or forgivable loans with 5-year retention)
Additional Requirements
Programs include West Cook Advantage Program, Cook County HOME funds, Summit Townhouse DR Project, employer-assisted housing, IHDA, and FHLBank Chicago programs; serves Forest Park, Oak Park, River Forest, and surrounding west Cook suburbs
Notes
Not limited to first-time buyers for all sub-programs
Rockford Homebuyer Assistance Program
City of Rockford Neighborhood Development Division
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Income limits apply per program brochure
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- single-family
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Repayment Terms
5-year forgivable loan; forgiven after occupying home for approximately 6 years
Additional Requirements
Federally funded; availability depends on fund availability. Amount determined based on applicant income, debt, and anticipated mortgage.
Notes
Not explicitly limited to first-time buyers; verify with city
FHLBank Chicago Downpayment Plus (DPP)
Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago (FHLBank Chicago)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- 80% AMI
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
80% of HUD Area Median Income (AMI); based on household size and county
Check AMI limits for your county →Repayment Terms
Forgivable grant; forgiven on monthly basis over 5-year retention period
Additional Requirements
$46 million available for 2025 program year; per-member annual limit of $1 million (2026). Funds reserved first-come first-served through member eBanking system. Five-year retention agreement recorded on property. Contact: dpp@fhlbc.com
Notes
Not limited to first-time buyers; income-eligible households
FHLBank Chicago Downpayment Plus Advantage (DPP Advantage)
Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago (FHLBank Chicago) via nonprofit mortgage lenders
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- 80% AMI
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Income Limits
At or below 80% of HUD Area Median Income (AMI); county-specific amounts
Check AMI limits for your county →Repayment Terms
Forgivable grant; forgiven pro-rata over 60-month (5-year) retention period; pro-rata repayment if sold/refinanced before 5 years
Additional Requirements
Distinct from standard DPP program; DPP Advantage is specifically for nonprofit-led mortgage programs; not a matching program; same 2026 $28M pool shared with DPP; five-year retention period; forgiven pro-rata over 60 months
Notes
Not limited to first-time buyers; any income-eligible buyer in a nonprofit-led mortgage program
Moline Down Payment/Closing Cost Assistance Program
City of Moline
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Not specified
- Income Limit
- 80% AMI
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Repayment Terms
Forgivable after 5 years
Additional Requirements
Minimum $1,000 buyer contribution required
IHDA Opening Doors
Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Varies by county; targets underrepresent...
- Min Credit Score
- 640+
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
Varies by county; targets underrepresented/underserved communities
Check AMI limits for your county →Repayment Terms
Forgivable over 5 years; no monthly payment from borrower
Additional Requirements
Relaunched February 2025 with $8 million in Rebuild Illinois funding; designed to serve approximately 1,300 buyers; can be combined with other DPA programs
Notes
Not exclusive to first-time buyers; available statewide in any county
Normal Down Payment Assistance Program
Town of Normal
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- 80% AMI
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- No
Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
0% interest forgivable after 5 years
Notes
No first-time buyer requirement
Alton Down Payment Assistance
City of Alton
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Not specified
- Income Limit
- 80% AMI
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
0% interest forgivable after 5 years
Additional Requirements
Buyer contribution required
Madison County HOMEbuyer Program
Madison County Community Development
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- 80% AMI
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Repayment Terms
5-year forgivable loan; forgiven after 5 full years of occupancy
Additional Requirements
Part of HOME Investment Partnerships Program through Madison County Community Development
Notes
First-time homebuyers required
City of Peoria First-Time Homebuyer Purchase Assistance Program
City of Peoria Community Development Department
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Must meet HUD income thresholds for Peor...
- Min Credit Score
- 640+
- Property Types
- single-family
- Max Price
- $125,000
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Income Limits
Must meet HUD income thresholds for Peoria County by household size and property type
Check AMI limits for your county →Repayment Terms
Forgivable; specific forgiveness period to be confirmed with program administrator
Additional Requirements
Heart of Illinois 2-1-1 (dial 2-1-1 or call 309-999-4029) is a local referral resource for additional programs; funding subject to availability
Notes
Both first-time and repeat buyers eligible if income-eligible and property is in qualified census tract
Lake County DPA (AHCLC)
Affordable Housing Corporation of Lake County (AHCLC)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Low-moderate income
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
0% interest forgivable loan; forgiven at 1/60th per month, fully forgiven after 5 years 60 days
Additional Requirements
Income limits apply
Notes
First-time buyers required (no home ownership in past 3 years). Occupancy requirement: Primary residence
Deferred Payment Loans (21)
Deferred loans require no monthly payments while you live in the home. You repay when you sell, refinance, or move out.
Building Neighborhoods and Affordable Homes Program
City of Chicago
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, 2 units, 3 units, 4 units, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
Downpayment Assistance Program
Will County
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- No
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
Cook County Home Advantage Program
Club 720
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
IHDAccess Home
Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Varies by county; approximately $131,905...
- Min Credit Score
- 640+
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- $15,000
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
Varies by county; approximately $131,905–$137,885 depending on location
Check AMI limits for your county →Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
0% interest deferred second mortgage; repayment deferred up to 30 years; due upon sale, refinance, or payoff
Additional Requirements
Launched March 2, 2026. 30-year fixed-rate mortgage paired with zero-interest silent second mortgage. New-construction and existing homes eligible.
Notes
First-time buyers required OR eligible veterans with COE/DD214 OR buying in a targeted area
West Cook Advantage Program (WCA)
West Cook Homeownership Center
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA +3
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- No
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Forgivable - Fully forgiven at closing or forgiven on a schedule
Kane County First-Time Homebuyer Loan Program
Kane County Community Investment
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
0% interest deferred loan; repaid upon sale or refinance
Additional Requirements
Homebuyer education required
Notes
First-time buyers only
IHDAccess Repayable
Illinois Housing Development Authority
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Townhouse/PUD, Condominium, 2 units
- Max Price
- $951,665
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
IHDAccess Deferred
Illinois Housing Development Authority
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Townhouse/PUD, Condominium, 2 units
- Max Price
- $951,665
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1, USDA-RD
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
interest-free
Homebuyer Down Payment/Closing Cost Assistance Program
City of Moline - Community & Economic Development
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Forgivable - Fully forgiven at closing or forgiven on a schedule
IHDAccess Forgivable
Illinois Housing Development Authority
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Townhouse/PUD, Condominium, 2 units
- Max Price
- $951,665
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +4
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Homeownership Program
City of Alton - Community Programs
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- $281,250
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Forgivable - Fully forgiven at closing or forgiven on a schedule
Homebuyer Assistance Forgivable Loan Program
City of Aurora - Community Development
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- $342,000
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- No
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Forgivable - Fully forgiven at closing or forgiven on a schedule
First Time Homebuyer program
City of Collinsville
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- No
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
Homebuyer Program
Madison County - Community Development
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Forgivable - Fully forgiven at closing or forgiven on a schedule
Chicago TaxSmart Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC)
City of Chicago Department of Housing
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Federal and city-imposed income limits a...
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- 1-4 unit
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
Federal and city-imposed income limits apply; varies by household size and program year
Check AMI limits for your county →Repayment Terms
Not a loan; annual tax credit for life of loan as long as homebuyer lives in the home
Additional Requirements
Series 2026 announced; applications available from participating lenders after February 1, 2026. Certificates issued first-come, first-served. Available with any mortgage type except tax-exempt bond program loans.
Notes
First-time homebuyers required (no ownership in last 3 years); exception for homes in targeted census tracts, qualified rehab loans, or home improvement loans
Joliet/WCCCC DPA
Will County Center for Community Concerns (WCCCC)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Not specified
- Income Limit
- Low income
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Repayment Terms
Contact program for repayment terms
Additional Requirements
Buyer must contribute minimum $2,500 of own funds. Free HUD-approved homebuyer education required
Notes
Check program requirements. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence
Down Payment Assistance
Community Partners for Affordable Housing (CPAH)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family
- Max Price
- $304,950
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Forgivable - Fully forgiven at closing or forgiven on a schedule
Homebuyer Assistance Program
St. Clair County Community Development
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- No
Homebuyer Assistance
Village of Romeoville
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- $404,806
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- FHA, VA, USDA-RD
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- No
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
Chenoa Fund FHA Down Payment Assistance Forgivable
CBC Mortgage Agency (Chenoa Fund)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, 2 units, Leasehold, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD, Manufactured
- Max Price
- $766,550
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- FHA
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Chenoa Fund FHA Down Payment Assistance Repayable
CBC Mortgage Agency (Chenoa Fund)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, 2 units, Leasehold, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD, Manufactured
- Max Price
- $766,550
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- FHA
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
Note rate 1% above the first mortgage note rate
Repayment Terms
This loan does require a monthly payment on the second mortgage.
Second Mortgages (1)
These programs provide DPA as a second mortgage, sometimes with monthly payments, sometimes deferred.
HACC County-Wide Homeownership DPA
Housing Authority of Champaign County (HACC)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Annual gross earned income of $40,000 or...
- Min Credit Score
- 650+
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- second mortgage
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Income Limits
Annual gross earned income of $40,000 or more; must be existing HACC program participant
Check AMI limits for your county →Repayment Terms
50% of loan forgiven at 10% per year over 10 years; remaining 50% due and payable upon transfer of title
Additional Requirements
Program is restricted to existing HACC Housing Choice Voucher participants in the Moving to Work (MTW) Local Self-Sufficiency program. Not open to general public. Annual funding allocation determined by HACC each year.
Notes
Open to existing HACC MTW Local Self-Sufficiency program participants; not a general public program
How to Apply for Down Payment Assistance in Illinois
-
1
Check Your Eligibility
Use our free eligibility tool to see which programs match your situation. Enter your state, city, income, and target home price.
-
2
Contact the Program Administrator
Each program has its own application process. Visit the program website or call the administering agency to get started. Many programs work through approved lenders.
-
3
Get Pre-Approved with a Participating Lender
Not every lender participates in every DPA program. Work with a lender who is approved for the programs you want. The program administrator can provide a list of approved lenders.
-
4
Complete Homebuyer Education (If Required)
Many programs require a HUD-approved homebuyer education course. Online options through eHome America and Framework are accepted by most programs.
-
5
Close & Move In
DPA funds are typically disbursed at closing alongside your first mortgage. Your lender coordinates the DPA program paperwork as part of the loan process.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much down payment assistance can I get in Illinois?
Up to $100,000 through available programs in Illinois. Multiple programs can often be combined for even more assistance. The exact amount depends on your income, location, and the specific program requirements.
Do I need to be a first-time homebuyer?
Not always. 25 programs in Illinois are open to repeat buyers. "First-time buyer" is typically defined as not having owned a home in the past three years.
What credit score do I need?
As low as 640 for some programs. Most programs require 620-660. Higher credit scores may qualify you for more programs and better terms.
Can I combine multiple DPA programs?
In many cases, yes. Some programs are specifically designed to be layered with others. For example, you might combine a state grant with a local deferred loan. Check with each program administrator about stacking eligibility.
DPA Programs in Nearby States
Help Us Keep This Data Accurate
Know about a DPA program in Illinois that's changed, closed, or one we're missing? This directory is community-maintained. Your input helps thousands of homebuyers find the right programs.
Submit a Program Update →Get Your Free Illinois DPA Action Plan
Tell us about your situation and we will put together a personalized guide to the programs you may qualify for.
We are putting together your action plan.
Check your email for next steps. In the meantime, you can also schedule a free consultation.
Schedule a Free Consultation