Home🏠 HousingUSDA Rural Housing Direct Loan & Grant
Federal Program🏠 Housing

USDA Rural Housing Direct Loan & Grant

Administered by U.S. Dept of Agriculture — Rural Development · rd.usda.gov

Provides very-low-income rural residents with home repair grants and 1% interest home loans. The Section 504 grant covers critical repairs for elderly homeowners.

Eligibility requirements

  • Rural area resident (town under 35,000)
  • Very low income
  • Homeowner (for repair grant)
  • Age 62+ preferred for grant portion
Insider tip

USDA defines 'rural' more broadly than you might think — many towns up to 35,000 qualify. The 1% interest rate loan is one of the best financing deals available anywhere.

How to apply

Apply directly on the official website. GrantLantern does not process applications — we link you directly to the source.

Apply at rd.usda.gov

Opens the official source. GrantLantern is not affiliated with this program.

Program details sourced from official government and agency websites. Eligibility is determined by the administering agency — not GrantLantern. Verify current requirements at the official source before applying.

Related programs in Housing

Covers rent above 30% of income

Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8)

Federal rental assistance for low-income families, elderly, and disabled. Tenants pay 30% of income; vouche…

View details →
Up to $10,000 grant / $40,000 loan

USDA Home Repair Grants (Section 504)

Grants and loans for very low-income rural homeowners to repair homes or remove health/safety hazards.

View details →
$300–$800/year utility help

LIHEAP Energy Assistance

Helps low-income households pay heating and cooling costs. Administered locally through Community Action Ag…

View details →
Varies by tribe — housing assistance

Indian Housing Block Grant (IHBG)

Block grants to federally recognized tribes for affordable housing construction, repair, and assistance for…

View details →