Below is a structured overview of the most important programs, who qualifies, and how to apply.
Federal Programs
USDA Section 504 Home Repair Loans & Grants
The USDA offers low-interest loans of up to $40,000 at about 1% interest over 20 years, and grants of up to $10,000 (or $15,000 in disaster areas) for seniors aged 62+ who cannot access affordable credit. Combined loan and grant assistance can total $50,000–$55,000.
Who Qualifies: Very low-income homeowners, rural residents, owner-occupants, and seniors (for grants).
How to Apply: Contact your local USDA Rural Development office.
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)
Run by the U.S. Department of Energy, WAP helps improve energy efficiency in low-income homes. While its main focus is insulation and sealing, it can also fund roof repairs when needed for energy savings.
Who Qualifies: Low-income households, including seniors, people with disabilities, and families with children, based on state-specific income limits.
How to Apply: Apply through your state’s weatherization agency.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
Although primarily an energy cost relief program, LIHEAP can connect homeowners to weatherization services that sometimes include roof repairs.
Who Qualifies: Low-income households; criteria vary by state.
How to Apply: Visit Benefits.gov or your state energy office.
Zero Interest or Deferred Payment Home Repair Loans
Many cities, counties, and nonprofits provide these loans for urgent repairs such as roofing. Repayment is typically deferred until the home is sold or transferred.
State and Regional Grants
Alabama – Strengthen Alabama Homes offers up to $10,000 for FORTIFIED Roof™ upgrades.
South Carolina – SC Safe Home Program funds hurricane-resistant roof improvements.
Louisiana – Fortify Homes Program provides grants for resilient roof systems.
Florida – My Safe Florida Home offers up to $10,000 for wind mitigation upgrades, with full coverage for low-income households.
Local Programs and Nonprofits
Some communities use Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) to fund home repairs for low-income residents.
Nonprofits like Habitat for Humanity and Rebuilding Together also provide free or reduced-cost roof repair services for qualifying homeowners.
To find these opportunities, check with your local housing authority or community action agency.
Who Typically Qualifies
Eligibility criteria vary, but you are more likely to qualify if:
- You own and occupy your home.
- Your household income is classified as low or very low in your county.
- You are 62 or older or have a disability.
- You live in a rural area or a disaster-prone region.
- Your roof needs repairs for safety, energy efficiency, or weather resilience.
How to Qualify and Apply
To qualify for most roof grants or repair loans, you generally must own and live in the home, meet low- or very low-income limits for your county, and show that your roof needs repair for safety or efficiency reasons.
- Get a roof inspection and written estimate.
- Match your situation to available programs based on income, location, and repair needs.
- Gather documentation such as proof of income, homeownership, and residency.
- Apply early, as funding is often limited.
- Stay in contact with the agency handling your application.
