Down Payment Assistance Program for First-Time Homebuyers

Building on Gov. Pritzker's Affordability Agenda, IHDAccess Home lowers barriers to homeownership for working families statewide

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Wednesday, March 11, 2026

CHICAGO - Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) today launched IHDAccess Home (Access Home), a new program offering up to $15,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance for eligible first-time homebuyers statewide. The initiative expands IHDA's popular Access mortgage suite and is designed to help more working families achieve homeownership amid rising housing costs.

Access Home combines an affordable 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage with up to $15,000 for down payment and/or closing cost assistance for both current and new-construction homes. In addition to helping with upfront costs, Access Home allows buyers to enter the market sooner and begin building equity earlier. ​ Assistance is provided as a zero-percent interest second mortgage, with repayment deferred for up to 30 years unless the home is sold or refinanced earlier.

Eligibility is based on the borrower's credit profile, household income, and the purchase price of the home. In addition, potential homebuyers are required to complete pre-purchase homeownership counseling to ensure they are making the best decision for themselves.

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