Program
USDA rural repair money through local nonprofits
USDA funds that local nonprofits use to repair homes in rural areas. You apply to the nonprofit, not USDA.
What it can pay for
- septic and well
- electrical
- roof
- heating and air
- windows and doors
- grab bars
- ramps
- weatherization
- kitchen changes
- flooring
- Official name
- USDA Housing Preservation Grants (Section 533)
- Where
- Nationwide
- Status
- Program running
- About the amount
- No federal per-home cap except $15,000 for replacement housing. Each local grantee sets its own per-home ceiling from its award; a grant, low-interest loan, or 'other comparable assistance,' with terms set by the grantee. FY2026 total pool nationwide was only $8.3M.
- Housing rules
- Owners must have owned the home 1+ year. Renters qualify only if the landlord signs a 5-year affordability agreement. Manufactured homes need the owner to own home+land, 1 year residency, and a permanent foundation.
- How long it takes
- Grant agreements run up to 2 years; no published homeowner timeline.
- How to apply
- Individuals cannot apply to USDA. Call the RD state office to identify the local nonprofit or government grantee currently holding HPG funds, then apply to that organization directly.
- Does not pay for
- Carpet/flooring, cabinets, A/C, painting, and landscaping are limited to 20% of the per-home budget and only ride along with eligible repairs.
- Official source
- rd.usda.gov
- Last checked
- September 28, 2026