Homebuyer and rental help in Illinois
Help buying a home, such as low-rate mortgages and down payment help, plus programs for affordable rentals.
Some homebuyer help comes as loans that must be repaid.
Apply on the official site ↗Goes to ihda.org. Applying is free.
Who generally qualifies
First-time and moderate-income homebuyers in Illinois, and renters looking for affordable housing; limits vary by program.
Exact income limits and rules are set by Illinois Housing Development Authority and can change. Check the official site for current details.
How to apply
- Browse programs on ihda.org.
- For homebuyer programs, contact one of the agency's approved lenders.
- For rentals, use the agency's search tools or listed partners.
What to have ready
- Proof of income
- Credit history
- Tax returns
Common questions
- Does it cost anything to apply?
- No. Applying through the official site is free. Be wary of anyone who charges a fee to apply for you.
- Do I have to pay it back?
- No. It's a free or low-cost service, not a loan.
- Who decides if I qualify?
- Illinois Housing Development Authority makes the final decision. This page explains the program in general terms only.
- Where can I find current income limits and amounts?
- Income limits, benefit amounts and deadlines change, so check ihda.org for the latest details.
Added October 21, 2026. BenefitSearch is not affiliated with Illinois Housing Development Authority.