California Housing Finance Agency Official Programs

CalHFA Down Payment Assistance Up to 10% for California Buyers

Use our free calculator to estimate your CalHFA eligibility. First-time buyers can receive 3.5% to 10% assistance through MyHome, Forgivable Equity Builder, and other state programs.

Income limits up to $207,000
Forgivable options available
Works with FHA, VA, Conventional

CalHFA DPA Calculator

Estimate your down payment assistance

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What CalHFA Down Payment Assistance Programs Are Available in 2026?

CalHFA offers four programs in 2026: MyHome (3.5% deferred loan), Forgivable Equity Builder (up to 10% forgivable), ZIP Extra (closing cost help), and CalPLUS (zero-interest second). All require first-time buyer status and income limits.

Four ways to get down payment help from the California Housing Finance Agency

MyHome Assistance Program

Up to 3.5%

Deferred-payment junior loan for down payment or closing costs

  • No monthly payments required
  • Due when you sell, refinance, or pay off mortgage
  • Can be combined with FHA, VA, or conventional loans
  • Available statewide

Forgivable Equity Builder (FEB)

Up to 10%

Forgivable loan - keep the money after 5 years!

  • Forgiven after 5 years of on-time payments
  • No repayment if you stay in your home
  • Largest assistance amount available
  • Best for long-term homeowners

ZIP Extra Credit Teacher Program

Up to 3.5%

Special program for educators and school employees

  • For teachers, administrators, and school staff
  • Works with CalHFA first mortgages
  • Additional incentives for educators
  • Includes private school employees

CalPLUS with ZIP

3%

Zero Interest Program - never repay the assistance

  • No repayment required ever
  • Slightly higher interest rate on first mortgage
  • Good for buyers who may sell sooner
  • Immediate equity benefit

What Are the 2026 CalHFA Income Limits by California County?

2026 CalHFA income limits range from $153,000-$236,500 depending on county and household size. Los Angeles allows up to $189,550 (4-person household), while Orange County allows up to $236,500. Most middle-income families qualify.

Income limits are higher than most people expect. See if you qualify based on your household size and county.

County1-2 Person Household3+ Person Household
Los Angeles$180,000$207,000
Orange$180,000$207,000
Riverside$134,000$154,100
San Bernardino$134,000$154,100
San Diego$168,000$193,200
Note: These are 2026 CalHFA income limits. Limits are updated annually and may vary by program. Your gross household income (before taxes) must be at or below these amounts to qualify.

What Are the Most Common Questions About CalHFA Programs?

Buyers ask most about income limits, first-time buyer requirements, and repayment terms. CalHFA deferred loans must be repaid when you sell or refinance, while forgivable programs are forgiven after staying in the home for a set period.

Everything you need to know about California down payment assistance

What is CalHFA and how does it help first-time buyers?

CalHFA (California Housing Finance Agency) is a state agency that provides down payment assistance to first-time homebuyers and repeat buyers who haven't owned a home in 3+ years. Through programs like MyHome and Forgivable Equity Builder, CalHFA can provide 3.5% to 10% of your purchase price to help with down payment and closing costs. These funds can be combined with FHA, VA, USDA, or conventional loans.

How much CalHFA down payment assistance can I receive in 2026?

The amount depends on which program you qualify for: MyHome Assistance provides up to 3.5% of your purchase price as a deferred-payment loan. Forgivable Equity Builder (FEB) offers up to 10% of your purchase price, which is forgiven after 5 years of on-time payments. ZIP Extra Credit (for educators) provides 3.5% assistance. CalPLUS with ZIP offers 3% that never needs to be repaid. For a $550,000 home, this could mean $19,250 to $55,000 in assistance.

What are the CalHFA income limits for my county?

CalHFA income limits vary by county and household size. For 2026 in major California counties: Los Angeles and Orange County allow up to $180,000 for 1-2 person households ($207,000 for 3+). Riverside and San Bernardino allow up to $134,000 ($154,100 for 3+). San Diego allows up to $168,000 ($193,200 for 3+). These limits are higher than many people expect, making CalHFA accessible to moderate-income families.

Do I have to repay CalHFA down payment assistance?

It depends on the program. MyHome Assistance is a deferred-payment loan - you don't make monthly payments, but it's due when you sell, refinance, or pay off your first mortgage. Forgivable Equity Builder (FEB) is forgiven entirely after 5 years of on-time first mortgage payments - you keep the money! CalPLUS ZIP assistance never needs to be repaid. Your loan officer can help you choose the best option for your situation.

Can I combine CalHFA with FHA, VA, or conventional loans?

Yes! CalHFA programs work as 'silent second' loans that layer on top of your primary mortgage. You can use CalHFA with: FHA loans (3.5% down), VA loans (0% down for veterans), USDA loans (0% down for rural areas), and Conventional loans (as low as 3% down). The CalHFA assistance can cover your down payment and/or closing costs, potentially allowing you to buy with little to no money out of pocket.

What credit score do I need for CalHFA programs?

CalHFA requires a minimum credit score of 660 for most programs, though some lenders may have additional requirements. If your score is between 640-659, you may still qualify with additional conditions. Importantly, CalHFA also requires completing a HUD-approved homebuyer education course (available online for about $99). This requirement helps ensure buyers are prepared for homeownership.

How long does CalHFA approval take and is there a waiting list?

CalHFA processing typically takes 30-45 days from application to closing, similar to a standard mortgage. However, funding availability can vary - some programs like FEB occasionally have waitlists when demand is high. Working with a CalHFA-approved lender like 21st Century Lending ensures you're first in line when funds are available. We also offer alternative DPA programs with no waiting lists if CalHFA funding is limited.

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