USDA Rural Development Loans

Administered by: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Rural Development · Federal · Government-Guaranteed Mortgage

Funding status: Active

How much assistance

100% financing (no down payment required); loan amount up to appraised value (Government-Guaranteed Mortgage)

Eligibility

  • Income limits: Household income at or below 115% of Area Median Income (AMI). 2026 standard limits: $119,850 for 1-4 person household, $158,250 for 5-8 person household. Varies by county.
  • First-time buyer required: No
  • Credit score minimum: 640
  • Geographic restrictions: Available nationwide in USDA-eligible rural areas only (use USDA eligibility map to verify); excludes most urban/metro areas; primary residence only
  • Homebuyer education required: No
Visit program website

Notes

USDA guarantees the loan; private lenders originate. 0% down payment. 1.0% upfront guarantee fee (can be financed) + 0.35% annual fee paid monthly. 640 credit for automated underwriting; manual underwriting possible below 640. Income limit includes ALL household members (not just borrowers). Rural definition is broader than expected — many suburban areas qualify. Single-family only (no multi-unit). DTI: 29% front-end / 41% back-end standard.

Available Statewide In