Illinois homebuyers can access up to $6,000 in down payment assistance through the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA). On the state's $282,909 median home price, that covers roughly 11% of a standard 20% down payment. Illinois has 3 state DPA programs total.
Primary Program: IHDA Access Forgivable
maximum assistance
Forgiven after 10 years if you remain in the home as your primary residence.
- Administering Agency
- Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA)
- Income Limit
- 80% of Area Median Income
- Purchase Price Cap
- $481,176
- Forgiveness Term
- 10 years
Additional Illinois DPA Programs
IHDA Access Deferred
Deferred Loan$7,500
0% interest, no monthly payments. Repaid when you sell, refinance, or pay off the first mortgage.
Apply / Learn MoreIHDA Access Repayable
Repayable Loan$10,000
Low-interest second mortgage with monthly payments over a set term.
Apply / Learn MoreHow Down Payment Assistance Works
Most state DPA programs are layered on top of a first mortgage — you apply through an approved lender who originates both the primary loan and the DPA second lien at the same closing. The DPA funds reduce the cash you need upfront.
Grants
Free money — no repayment ever. Typically the smallest amounts but highest value.
Forgivable Loans
Balance forgiven after a set period (usually 3–15 years) if you stay in the home. Selling early triggers repayment.
Deferred Loans
No monthly payments. Balance due when you sell, refinance, or pay off your mortgage.
Down Payment Calculator
Down Payment Planner
Illinois median pre-loaded
Your Savings Plan
Timeline
9.5 yrs
saving $500/mo
No PMI at 20% down
20% or more avoids private mortgage insurance entirely.
Estimate only — does not include investment returns on savings.
Full Calculator →Frequently Asked Questions
What down payment assistance is available in Illinois?
Illinois's primary DPA program is the IHDA Access Forgivable, administered by the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA). It provides up to $6,000 as a forgivable loan. Forgiven after 10 years if you remain in the home as your primary residence. Additional programs include IHDA Access Deferred and IHDA Access Repayable.
How much down payment do I need in Illinois after using DPA?
On a $282,909 home (Illinois median), a 20% down payment is $56,582. With the IHDA Access Forgivable covering $6,000, your remaining gap would be $50,582. Many buyers combine DPA with a 3–5% conventional or FHA loan to reduce their cash needed further.
Do I have to repay Illinois down payment assistance?
Forgiven after 10 years if you remain in the home as your primary residence.
Can I combine Illinois DPA with other assistance programs?
Yes — Illinois's DPA programs can generally be combined ("stacked") with local city and county assistance programs, employer homebuyer benefits, and federal programs. Check with an approved lender or HUD-approved counselor to identify all programs you qualify for.
What are the income limits for Illinois down payment assistance?
The IHDA Access Forgivable requires income at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for your county. AMI limits vary by location and household size. Your lender or the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) can confirm the exact limit for your area.
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