USDA Section 504 Home Repair Loans and Grants
USDA Rural Development
Financing up to $50,000
Repayable — not free savings
Very-low-income rural homeowners can get a 1% repair loan and, if age 62 or older, a grant.
What you could receive
Loans up to $40,000 and grants up to $10,000 (combined up to $50,000 in the CA pilot)
Financing up to $50,000. Repayable — not free savings.
Published range: not stated to $50,000 (financing amount)
California is in a pilot that publishes grants up to $10,000, loans up to $40,000, and combined assistance up to $50,000. The home must be in an eligible rural area. Income must be very low by USDA county tables. Grants generally must be repaid if the home is sold within three years. This is rural housing assistance, not a city rebate.
Who may qualify
- You must own and occupy the home.
- Homeowner programs require ownership.
Location / service area
Statewide in California
Important requirements
Do not purchase before approval unless the program administrator confirms otherwise.
Timing / preapproval
Preapproval required
Last verified: Sep 6, 2026 · Confidence: High
Official sources
Eligibility is based on published program information and the details you provide. Program rules, funding and availability can change. Always confirm eligibility with the official program administrator.