Home repairs can be costly, and for many homeowners—especially seniors, low-income families, and people with disabilities—those costs can become overwhelming. Fortunately, there are grants available to help cover home repair expenses. These grants don’t need to be repaid, making them a great option for eligible homeowners. Here's how to find and apply for home repair grants.
1. Start with Federal Programs
The U.S. government provides several programs aimed at helping homeowners with repairs:
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants (Section 504): This program offers grants to very-low-income homeowners aged 62 or older to remove health and safety hazards in their homes. You can apply through your local USDA office.
HUD (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development): HUD doesn’t typically provide grants directly to individuals but funds local governments and nonprofits through programs like the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. These local partners then offer assistance to qualifying residents. To find opportunities, visit your local city or county housing department's website or call them directly.
2. Check State and Local Resources
Most states and municipalities offer their own home repair assistance programs. These can include grants, forgivable loans, or low-interest financing for necessary repairs.
Visit your state housing finance agency website to see what programs are available.
Call your city or county housing office—they often administer grants or know of organizations that do.
Some states even offer emergency repair programs, weatherization help, or accessibility upgrades for people with disabilities.
3. Contact Nonprofit Organizations
Numerous nonprofits offer home repair assistance, often using grant funding to help those in need:
Rebuilding Together is a national nonprofit that helps low-income homeowners with critical repairs and modifications, particularly seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities.
Habitat for Humanity sometimes runs local home repair programs in addition to building new homes.
Local churches, community action agencies, and senior services organizations may also offer assistance or connect you with programs.
4. Explore Utility Company Programs
Some utility companies offer energy efficiency grants or rebates that can help fund repairs such as insulation, window replacement, or heating system upgrades. These programs are often underutilized, so it’s worth checking your electric or gas provider’s website or calling to ask.
5. Search Online Grant Databases
There are websites and tools specifically designed to help people find grant opportunities:
Grants.gov lists federal grant opportunities but is more useful for nonprofits and organizations.
Benefits.gov provides a questionnaire to match you with federal aid programs based on your situation.
Use specific search terms like “home repair grants in [your city/state]” to find local programs that may not be widely advertised.
6. Prepare Your Application
Once you find a potential grant, be ready to:
Prove income eligibility
Demonstrate ownership of the home
Provide estimates or documentation of the needed repairs
Submit identification, tax returns, or other paperwork
Applications can be competitive, so be thorough and meet all deadlines.
Final Thoughts
Finding home repair grants takes some time and effort, but the support can be life-changing. Start with local government offices, then branch out to nonprofits and utility providers. With the right approach, you can secure the help you need to make your home safe and livable.
