Updated 1/19/2026

These programs can only be handled by approved lenders. If you would like help from a local realtor familiar with the programs and lenders, fill out this form here and I will connect you with one.

I've included all of the links and contact info needed to do this on your own, the form is meant to make it easier.

Connect with a DPA team

How Down Payment Assistance Works

I need to give a quick overview of how down payment assistance works. After that, the programs are listed.

With down payment assistance, you'll run into two different types:

• A grant
• A loan

A Grant

If we meet the qualifications up front, then it's money that does not need to be repaid.

A Loan

If the down payment assistance comes in the form of a loan, then pay attention to the three different types:

• Repayable
• Deferred
• Forgivable

Repayable is just as most imagine. It charges interest over a certain amount of time, with monthly payments until it's paid off.

Deferred loans usually don't require a monthly payment, and typically don't charge interest. It's due in full when you refinance, sell the home, or when it ceases to be your primary residence.

Forgivable loans will disappear if you meet the criteria, which usually comes down to keeping the home as your primary residence for a specific amount of time.

Okay with that, here are the programs!

Illinois

Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) Access Programs

• What It Offers: Provides up to $10,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance.
• Who Qualifies: First-time and repeat homebuyers with a minimum credit score of 640.
• Income Limits: Varies by county and family size.
• Repayment: Some programs offer forgivable loans, while others require repayment over time.
• Website: https://www.ihda.org/lenders-realtors/lending-programs/

Chicago Home Buyer Assistance Program

• What It Offers: Provides up to 7% of the total loan amount for down payment and closing costs.
• Who Qualifies: Homebuyers purchasing within the city of Chicago who meet income and credit requirements.
• Income Limits: Based on area median income (AMI).
• Repayment: Forgivable after a set period of time.
• Website: https://www.thecha.org/paths-homeownership/down-payment-assistance

Cook County

• Down Payment Assistance Pilot Program: Launched in June 2024
• This program provides subsidies of up to $25,000 or 5% of the home purchase price, whichever is less, to assist with down payments, closing costs, or mortgage buydowns.
• As of June 2025, the initial investment has been fully allocated, but county leaders are exploring additional funding opportunities.
• For updates, visit: https://www.cookcountyil.gov/service/down-payment-assistance-pilot-program

Lake County

• Down payment and closing cost assistance
• Typically for first-time buyers (or no ownership in 3+ years)
• Income limits apply
• Terms vary by funding source
• More information: https://www.cpahousing.org/home-buying/down-payment-assistance/

Will County

• Up to $25,000
• 0% interest deferred second mortgage
• No monthly payments
• Forgivable after required occupancy period
• Buyer contribution required (typically $2,500)
• First-time buyers only (no ownership in last 3 years)
• Learn more: https://willcounty.gov/County-Offices/Economic-Development/Will-County-Land-Use-Department/Community-Development-Division/Grant-Administration/We-WILL-Build/Housing-Options

Kane County

• Up to $10,000
• 0% interest deferred loan
• Repaid only upon sale, refinance, or loss of occupancy
• First-time buyers only
• Homebuyer education required
• https://www.kanecountyil.gov/Documents/Community%20Investment/First%20Time%20Homebuyer/First%20Time%20Homebuyer%20Loan%20Program%20Application%20(03-2024).pdf

Moline

• Up to $7,100
• Forgivable over 5 years
• Income limit: ≤80% AMI
• Buyer must contribute at least $1,000
• Program details: https://www.moline.il.us/1502/Down-PaymentClosing-Cost-Assistance-Prog

Normal

• Up to $5,000
• 0% interest, forgivable after 5 years
• First-time buyer not required
• Income limit: ≤80% AMI

Learn more: https://www.normalil.gov/1074/Down-Payment-Assistance-Program

Alton

• $3,000–$5,000
• 0% interest forgivable loan
• Forgiven over 5 years
• Income limit: ≤80% AMI
• Buyer contribution required
• Information: https://www.cityofaltonil.gov/community-programs/

Updated 1/19/2026

These programs can only be handled by approved lenders. If you would like help from a local realtor familiar with the programs and lenders, fill out this form here and I will connect you with one.

I've included all of the links and contact info needed to do this on your own, the form is meant to make it easier.