Key Takeaways
- You can qualify for grants offering up to $20,000 in assistance.
- FHA loans require just a 3.5% down payment.
- USDA and VA loans offer 0% down payment options.
- HomeReady and Home Possible programs need only 3% down.
Article Summary
First-time home buyer grants and programs provide financial assistance including down payment help, closing cost aid, and special mortgage terms with lower interest rates or reduced down payments.
First-Time Home Buyer Programs: Your Complete Guide
First-time home buyer programs are government-backed loans, grants, and incentives designed to help renters achieve homeownership. These programs reduce down payment requirements, offer lower interest rates, and provide cash assistance to make buying a home more accessible.
The most popular first-time buyer programs include FHA loans (3.5% down), USDA loans (0% down), VA loans (0% down), and conventional programs like HomeReady and Home Possible (3% down). Many of these programs can be combined with down payment assistance grants that provide $20,000 in cash assistance or more. You can also combine these programs with gift funds from family members—if you receive gift funds, you'll need a mortgage gift letter for your lender.
You do not need a 20% down payment to buy your first home. There are more than a dozen first-time home buyer grants and programs available to help you get started. See how much house you can afford with these assistance programs.
Ready to explore your options? Compare mortgage lenders to find programs that match your needs.
What is a First-Time Home Buyer Program?
First-time home buyer programs are loans, grants, and incentives that help reduce the upfront cost of buying a home, the monthly payment, or both. These programs are typically designed for renters and returning buyers who have stable income but may not have a large down payment or long credit history. Some programs also consider factors like household income, profession, or location.
Home buyer assistance generally falls into one of three categories:
1. Affordable mortgages with low down payments
Government-backed loans with reduced requirements that make homeownership more accessible. Affordable mortgage programs offer 0% down payments, reduced mortgage insurance costs, and flexible credit requirements compared to many other loan options. Popular choices include FHA, USDA, and VA loans, plus specialized conventional programs like HomeReady and Home Possible.
2. Cash grants and buyer incentives
Non-repayable funds that help cover down payments, closing costs, and other homebuying expenses. Many programs are funded by state and local governments, housing authorities, and nonprofit organizations. Grants up to $25,000 typically do not need to be repaid if residency requirements are met. Some programs are designed for specific groups such as teachers, healthcare workers, or low-income buyers.
3. Congressional stimulus programs
Federal tax credits and assistance programs created through congressional action to stimulate homeownership. Examples include proposed programs like the $15,000 First-Time Home Buyer Act of 2024, existing tax credits, and special initiatives during economic recovery periods. These programs may provide substantial financial assistance but often have limited availability or specific eligibility criteria based on income, location, or timing.
Many first-time home buyer programs are designed for people with steady income and good credit who have not been able to save a 20% down payment. Some programs are available nationwide, while others are limited to specific cities, income levels, or professions such as educators, healthcare workers, or public employees.
In most cases, a first-time buyer is defined as someone who has not owned a home in the past three years. This includes many renters, recent graduates, or former homeowners re-entering the market.
This guide covers the three main categories of first-time home buyer assistance in detail to help make the path to homeownership clearer.
📊 Key Statistic
Affordable Mortgages With Low Down Payments
- Affordable Mortgages
- Government-backed home loans that offer reduced down payment requirements, lower mortgage insurance costs, and more flexible qualification standards compared to conventional mortgages. Affordable mortgages make homeownership accessible to buyers who may not qualify for standard mortgage products.
Our analysis shows more than 1 million first-time home buyers use affordable mortgages each year. Here are just some the programs first-time buyers use.
Affordable Mortgage Program Comparison
| Program | Minimum Down Payment | Minimum Credit Score | Who It May Help |
|---|---|---|---|
| HomeReady | 3% | 620 | Low-to-moderate income buyers |
| Home Possible | 3% | 660 | Low-to-moderate income, multi-unit home buyers |
| Conventional 97 | 3% | 620 | First-time buyers with decent credit |
| HomeOne® | 3% | 620 | First-time buyers with decent credit |
| FHA Mortgage | 3.5% | 580 | Buyers with lower credit scores |
| USDA Mortgage | 0% | 640 | Rural and suburban buyers |
| VA Mortgage | 0% | 620 | Veterans and service members |
| Good Neighbor Next Door | $100 | 500 | Teachers, law enforcement, firefighters, EMTs |
HomeReady: Low Down Payment Mortgage
HomeReady is a 3 percent down payment mortgage available through lenders that offer Fannie Mae-backed loans. The HomeReady program is designed for low- to moderate-income buyers and includes features such as reduced mortgage insurance requirements and flexible underwriting.
HomeReady may be helpful if you have steady income and are looking for an option with a smaller down payment. Many people working in education, healthcare, hospitality, and other salaried or hourly jobs who meet income guidelines and want to avoid some of the ongoing costs tied to other loan types often consider HomeReady.
Learn more about HomeReady mortgages →
Home Possible: Low Down Payment Mortgage
Home Possible is another 3 percent down payment mortgage, available through lenders that work with Freddie Mac. The Home Possible program has some similarities to HomeReady but comes with its own guidelines and qualification criteria.
Home Possible may be worth exploring if you earn income from multiple sources, such as part-time jobs, freelance work, or self-employment. Home Possible may also allow certain buyers to purchase a multi-unit property, depending on eligibility and how the home will be used.
Learn more about Home Possible mortgages →
Conventional 97 / Standard 97 LTV: Low Down Payment Mortgage
Conventional 97 is a low down payment option offered by many lenders and backed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. This program allows first-time buyers to put down just 3 percent of the home's price. There are no income limits for the Conventional 97 program.
Conventional 97 may be a fit if you have a strong credit history and enough savings to cover a small down payment and upfront costs. Unlike some income-based programs, Conventional 97 focuses more on your financial habits and less on how much you earn.
Learn more about Conventional 97 mortgages →
HomeOne® 3% Down: Low Down Payment Mortgage
HomeOne® is a 3 percent down payment mortgage available to first-time home buyers with decent credit. It's does not have income limits.
HomeOne® is Freddie Mac's version of the Conventional 97 and it's very similar to its conventioanal mortgage counterpart. HomeOne® can work well for buyers with a solid credit history and enough savings for a small down payment and upfront costs, although eligible gift funds are allowed to cover those amounts.
Learn more about HomeOne® mortgages →
FHA Mortgage: Low Down Payment Mortgage
FHA loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration and offered by approved lenders. FHA loans allow down payments as low as 3.5 percent and generally have more flexible credit guidelines than conventional loans.
An FHA loan may be worth considering if your credit history includes past challenges or if you're still building credit. Some buyers use FHA loans to purchase a two- to four-unit property and plan to live in one unit while renting out the others.
Learn more about FHA mortgages →
USDA Mortgage: No Down Payment Mortgage
USDA loans are available through participating lenders and backed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. USDA loans require no down payment and are intended to support homeownership in rural and select suburban areas.
A USDA loan may be helpful if you are open to buying in a smaller community or outside a major metro area. USDA loans may allow qualified buyers to keep more cash on hand for other expenses, such as moving costs or an emergency fund, as long as income and location guidelines are met.
Learn more about USDA mortgages →
VA Mortgage: No Down Payment Mortgage
VA loans are backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and available through participating lenders. VA loans are designed for eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and certain surviving spouses. VA loans typically require no down payment and do not include monthly mortgage insurance.
If you qualify based on your service record or relationship to someone who served, a VA loan may offer favorable terms compared to other mortgage options. The VA loan program is intended to support those who have served by making homeownership more accessible.
Learn more about VA mortgages →
Good Neighbor Next Door: 50% Discount on HUD Homes
The Good Neighbor Next Door (GNND) program is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). It offers a 50% discount on select HUD-owned homes to eligible public servants who commit to living in the home for at least three years.
The program is available to full-time teachers (grades K–12), law enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency medical technicians. Homes are located in designated revitalization areas and must be purchased through HUD’s website using a HUD-approved lender.
If eligible, GNND can dramatically reduce the cost of homeownership without changing your mortgage terms.
Cash Grants and Buyer Incentives
Cash grants and buyer incentives sometimes change the math of renting or buying. Many first-time home buyer programs get overlooked, but nearly every state offers down payment assistance and grant programs that may add thousands of dollars to a home buyer’s budget. Grants are not loans. Grant funds do not need to be repaid, and grant funds do not affect your mortgage terms.
Many cash grant and incentive programs are limited to first-time buyers or income-qualified households. Some are tied to specific neighborhoods or professions where homeownership is encouraged, such as near schools, hospitals, or revitalization zones. Others support buyers in high-cost areas where saving for a down payment is especially challenging.
Cash grants and buyer incentives will not cover the entire cost of a home, but grant funds may help cover the gap between how much money you've saved to buy a home and how much money is needed.
National Homebuyers Fund: Down Payment Grant
The National Homebuyers Fund (NHF) is a down payment assistance program available nationally. The NHF is operated by a nonprofit that partners with lenders across the country. The program typically provides up to 5% of the home’s purchase price as a grant, which may be used for the down payment, closing costs, or both.
There is no separate application process for buyers. Participating lenders apply for the grant on behalf of the home buyer during the loan process. The money is considered a true grant if the home buyer stays in the home for at least five years.
The National Homebuyers Fund grant may be paired with common mortgage types such as FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional loans. Some lenders may allow the grant to be combined with additional local assistance.
Because lenders manage the program directly, availability depends on lender participation. Not all mortgage companies offer the National Homebuyers Fund grant, and terms may vary based on the loan program. Some lenders only offer the grant to borrowers who qualify on multiple levels but may not mention the grant unless prompted.
State and Local Down Payment Assistance
Every U.S. state has a housing agency that offers financial help to first-time buyers. Many cities and counties also run their own homeownership programs. State, city, and county programs are designed to reduce upfront costs by lowering the down payment, covering closing costs, or delaying repayment until later.
Some down payment assistance programs are funded through federal dollars. Other programs rely on local budgets, foundation grants, or community partnerships. Availability, terms, and dollar amounts vary based on location.
Most state and local programs fall into one of the categories below. Not every location offers every option, but the following are the most common types of help available:
Non-Repayable Grants
Many down payment assistance programs offer grants that do not need to be repaid. Non-repayable grants are true cash gifts, often up to $25,000, depending on local funding. The money may be applied to your down payment, closing costs, or both. Grants may be automatic if you use a participating lender or loan product, or they may require a separate application.
Deferred Payment Loans
Deferred loans require no monthly payments. Repayment is postponed until the home is sold, the mortgage is refinanced, or the homeowner moves out. These loans are typically interest-free and are offered by local governments or housing nonprofits. Loan amounts vary but often fall between $5,000 and $25,000. Deferred payment loan programs are common in high-cost cities and areas trying to boost local homeownership.
Down Payment Loans with Monthly Payments
Some down payment assistance programs offer low-interest loans to help cover your down payment. These loans are repaid monthly over 15 to 30 years, often at below-market rates. For example, a $25,000 loan at 1% interest may add around $80 to your monthly costs. These loans are typically structured to keep your combined payments affordable, but not all mortgage programs allow them. Ask your lender what is permitted.
Closing Cost Assistance
Closing cost assistance helps cover final costs that are not part of your down payment, such as title insurance, escrow fees, or transfer taxes. Some programs offer closing cost support on its own, while others bundle it with down payment assistance. Local housing agencies, nonprofits, and some employers may offer these benefits. Start by asking your lender, or search the HUD and NCSHA websites for local leads.
Most down payment assistance programs require documentation and a short homebuyer education course, which is often available online. Some programs may be available automatically through participating lenders. Other programs involve a separate application process.
Down payment assistance programs are not always advertised on large real estate sites. Many programs are promoted through local housing nonprofits or city programs, so it is worth asking local organizations even if nothing appears online.
Many state and local assistance programs operate with limited funding. Once the money runs out, applications go on a waitlist. If you are thinking about using a down payment assistance program, it helps to apply early in the calendar year or right after a funding round opens.
Employer Home Buyer Benefits
Home buyer benefits through employers may take many forms. Some companies offer direct financial assistance to help retain employees or support housing stability. Other employers partner with lenders, nonprofits, or local housing agencies to provide access to grants or loan products.
Employer home buyer benefits might include:
- Matching your down payment up to a certain amount
- Paying part of the closing costs as an employee incentive
- Connecting buyers to free one-on-one counseling or workshops
- Pre-approval through employer-linked programs with fewer fees
Hospitals, universities, public school systems, and city governments often have housing programs, especially for new hires or those relocating for work.
Even employers without a formal program may offer help in another way, such as a signing bonus structured for housing or relocation assistance that may be used toward closing costs. Do not assume an employer home buyer program is unavailable just because it was not mentioned in your onboarding.
Employer home buyer benefits often appear in HR paperwork or employee portals and are not always widely promoted.
FHFA Mortgage Rate Discount: Discounted Rates
The FHFA Mortgage Rate Discount provides an interest rate reduction that is included in many conventional loans for eligible first-time home buyers. Lenders apply this pricing benefit automatically when following loan-level pricing guidelines set by the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA). No separate application process is required.
To qualify for the FHFA Mortgage Rate Discount, all of the following criteria must be met:
- The home buyer must be classified as a first-time home buyer, typically defined as someone who has not owned a home in the past three years
- The mortgage must be a conventional loan and not backed by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), or U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
- The home buyer’s income must be at or below 80 percent of the area median income (AMI) for the property's location
If a mortgage meets these requirements, the interest rate may be reduced by up to 1.75 percentage points, depending on the loan’s details. Lenders automatically factor the discount into the rate offered.
The FHFA Mortgage Rate Discount is not a separate loan program. This discount functions as a built-in rate adjustment that may help make conventional mortgages more affordable for first-time home buyers with moderate incomes.
FHFA First-Time Home Buyer Mortgage Rate Discount
| Credit Score | Down Payment | Loan Type | Rate Discount |
|---|---|---|---|
| 760 | 3% | Fixed | Up to 0.25% |
| 740 | 3% | Fixed | Up to 0.25% |
| 720 | 3% | Fixed | Up to 0.25% |
| 700 | 3% | Fixed | Up to 0.50% |
| 680 | 3% | Fixed | Up to 0.50% |
| 660 | 3% | Fixed | Up to 1.25% |
| 640 | 3% | Fixed | Up to 1.50% |
| 620 | 3% | Fixed | Up to 1.75% |
Assumption: A 50 bps loan-level pricing adjustments yields a 0.25% mortgage rate change.
Source: Fannie Mae LLPA Matrix, Homebuyer.com
Congressional Stimulus Programs
For the last several decades, Congress has regularly introduced bills to help renters become homeowners. Many of those bills passed into law. Others expired or stalled in committee. Until now, nearly every session of Congress had at least something on the table for first-time buyers.
The 119th Congress has taken a different path.
So far, most federal housing proposals have focused on boosting supply by supporting home builders and existing homeowners. Fewer efforts have focused directly on renters trying to buy their first home—especially buyers who are struggling with rising costs and stricter mortgage rules.
Even so, the names of these programs continue to circulate. Some programs were introduced in prior sessions but not yet reintroduced. Other programs remain active but pending. Many people search for these bills by name, so here is a snapshot of what each program is, what it was intended to do, and where it stands today.
American Dream for All Act
The American Dream for All Act creates a national pilot program offering shared-appreciation down payment loans to first-time and first-generation homebuyers—you get the upfront cash you need, and the government shares in future home appreciation. This creates a sustainable model for expanding homeownership opportunities without requiring repayment of the principal.
The American Dream for All Act was introduced in the 119th Congress and is currently active.
American Housing and Economic Mobility Act
The American Housing and Economic Mobility Act provides up to 3.5% down payment assistance grants for first-generation homebuyers—potentially covering your entire down payment—plus expands Fair Housing Act protections and extends VA loan eligibility to descendants of veterans. This comprehensive bill addresses multiple barriers to homeownership while strengthening housing protections.
The American Housing and Economic Mobility Act was introduced in both chambers of Congress and is currently active.
Learn more about the American Housing and Economic Mobility Act →
Bipartisan American Homeownership Opportunity Act
The Bipartisan American Homeownership Opportunity Act provides down payment tax credits up to $50,000 for first-time homebuyers—the largest proposed assistance amount—plus construction tax credits for builders of starter homes. This bill aims to address both demand and supply challenges in the housing market through bipartisan tax incentives.
The Bipartisan American Homeownership Opportunity Act was introduced in the 119th Congress and is currently active.
Learn more about the Bipartisan American Homeownership Opportunity Act →
DASH Act (Decent Affordable Safe Housing)
The DASH Act offers eligible first-time buyers a $15,000 tax credit to help offset the cost of purchasing a home—potentially covering your entire down payment. To qualify, buyers must earn a low to moderate income, meet residency requirements, and purchase a home priced within 10 percent of the area's conforming loan limit.
The DASH Act has not yet been reintroduced in the 119th Congress and is currently inactive.
Downpayment Toward Equity Act
The Downpayment Toward Equity Act proposes a cash grant of up to $25,000 for eligible buyers—no repayment required. The program includes $20,000 for first-generation, first-time home buyers and an additional $5,000 for buyers from socially or economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Funds can be used for down payment, closing costs, mortgage points, or property taxes.
The Downpayment Toward Equity Act was introduced in the 119th Congress but has not advanced.
First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit Act
The First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit Act gives eligible first-time home buyers a federal tax credit of up to $15,000—essentially free money that could cover most or all of your down payment. The credit can be applied at closing toward the down payment or claimed as a refund when filing taxes. This bill is sometimes referred to as the "Biden First-Time Buyer Tax Credit," modeled after the 2009 Obama-era version that helped over two million renters become homeowners.
The First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit Act was introduced in the 117th and 118th Congresses but was not reintroduced in the 119th Congress. The bill is currently inactive.
First Time Homeowner Savings Plan Act
The First Time Homeowner Savings Plan Act raises the IRA first-time homebuyer penalty-free withdrawal cap from $10,000 to $25,000 and indexes it for inflation—letting you access more of your retirement savings for home purchases without facing early withdrawal penalties.
The First Time Homeowner Savings Plan Act was introduced in the House and is currently active.
Learn more about the First Time Homeowner Savings Plan Act →
HELPER Act
The HELPER Act provides zero-down, no-mortgage-insurance home loans for teachers, firefighters, and law enforcement officers—potentially saving you thousands in upfront costs and hundreds per month. The program builds on the FHA platform and is designed to reduce upfront and monthly costs for eligible public service workers.
HELPER stands for "Homes for Every Local Protector, Educator, and Responder."
The HELPER Act was introduced in both chambers of Congress and is supported by co-sponsors from both parties. The bill is currently active.
Home of Your Own Act
The Home of Your Own Act provides up to $30,000 in non-taxed cash grants for first-time home buyers—free money for down payments, closing costs, and home repairs with no tax implications. The grants are structured to avoid tax implications for recipients while providing substantial upfront assistance.
The Home of Your Own Act was introduced in the House and is currently active.
LIFT Homebuyers Act
The LIFT Homebuyers Act offers 20-year mortgages with reduced rates for first-time, first-generation buyers—helping you build wealth faster through homeownership with lower monthly payments and faster equity building. The program provides shorter-term loans with lower monthly payments, allowing buyers to build equity more quickly.
The LIFT Homebuyers Act was introduced in the Senate and is currently active.
Uplifting First-Time Homebuyers Act
The Uplifting First-Time Homebuyers Act raises the IRA first-time homebuyer penalty-free withdrawal cap from $10,000 to $50,000—letting you access significantly more of your retirement savings for home purchases without facing early withdrawal penalties.
The Uplifting First-Time Homebuyers Act was introduced in the House and is currently active.
Which First-Time Buyer Programs from Congress Are Actually Available?
The first-time home buyer programs listed above are proposals. Most have not passed into law and are not available to use. Some were introduced in earlier sessions of Congress but have not been reintroduced. Others have been introduced again but haven’t moved forward.
Currently, only the HELPER Act remains active in both chambers with bipartisan support. The rest—including the $15,000 tax credit, the $25,000 down payment grant, and the DASH Act—are not available to home buyers today.
If you’re trying to figure out what help you can actually use now, your best bet is to focus on programs that are already funded at the state and local level. Many cities, counties, and housing agencies offer down payment assistance, cash grants, and closing cost help that’s available today—not years from now.
Bonus: Solutions for Common First-Time Buyer Challenges
Buying your first home may come with a few hurdles, but there are practical ways to move forward. This section covers common challenges first-time buyers face and offers straightforward solutions to help you keep your home buying plans on track.
My credit score is low
You're not alone. Many first-time buyers start with credit challenges. The good news is that credit scores often improve with focused effort. While most programs require a 580+ credit score, you may have several paths forward.
| Action | Timeline | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Pull credit reports | Today | Free |
| Dispute errors | 30 days | Up to 100 points |
| Pay cards below 30% | This month | Up to 150 points |
| Auto payments | This week | Prevents late fees |
If your score is below 580:
| Option | Requirements | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Secured credit card | $200-500 deposit | 6+ months |
| Credit counselor | Varies | 6+ months |
| Wait and improve | Focus on credit | 6+ months |
I don't have enough money for a down payment
Saving for a down payment can feel overwhelming, but you won't need 20% down to buy a home. First-time buyer programs allow down payments as low as 0%.
| Program Type | Down Payment | Credit Score Minimum | Income Limits |
|---|---|---|---|
| USDA Loans | 0% | 640 | Yes |
| VA Loans | 0% | 620 | Veterans only |
| FHA Loans | 3.5% | 580 | No |
| Conventional 97 | 3% | 620 | No |
Down Payment Assistance Options:
| Source | What They Offer | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|
| State housing agency | Grants up to $15,000 | Search "[Your State] down payment assistance" |
| Local housing authority | Forgivable loans | Call your city/county housing office |
| Employer benefits | $5,000-$10,000 grants | Ask HR about home buyer benefits |
| Nonprofit organizations | Closing cost help | Search for local housing nonprofits in your area |
I have a high debt-to-income ratio
High debt-to-income ratios are common barriers to loan approval. Lenders want to see that you can comfortably handle your mortgage payment alongside existing debts.
Calculate Your Current DTI
- Add up all monthly debt payments (credit cards, car loans, student loans)
- Divide by your gross monthly income
- Multiply by 100 to get your percentage
| Quick Win | Timeline | DTI Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Pay off smallest card | 1-2 months | Cut DTI by 5% |
| Cancel subscriptions | Today | Cut DTI by 3% |
| Ask for credit limit increase | 1 week | Cut DTI by 2% |
Programs for Higher DTI:
- FHA Loans: 56.9% DTI limit
- USDA Loans: 41% DTI limit
- VA Loans: 41% DTI limit (with compensating factors)
Ready to explore first-time home buyer programs? See today's lenders.
Frequently Asked Questions About First-Time Home Buyer Programs
Get answers to common questions about first-time home buyer programs, eligibility requirements, and how to apply for assistance. We are not a lender and cannot guarantee loan approval or specific terms.
Do I have to be a first-time home buyer?
Most programs require you to be a first-time buyer (haven't owned a home in the past 3 years), but some programs have broader eligibility criteria. Check specific program requirements.
What credit score do I need for first-time home buyer programs?
Credit score requirements vary by program. FHA loans require 580, USDA loans need 640, and conventional programs typically require 620. Higher scores get better rates and terms.
How much down payment do I need?
Down payment requirements range from 0% (USDA and VA loans) to 3.5% (FHA loans) to 3% (conventional programs like HomeReady and Conventional 97). Many programs can be combined with down payment assistance.
How do I know if I qualify for income-based programs?
Income limits vary by program and location. HomeReady and Home Possible have income limits based on area median income. USDA loans have income limits that vary by county. Check with your lender or local housing agency for specific limits.
Can I combine multiple assistance programs?
Yes, many first-time buyer programs can be combined. For example, you can use an FHA loan with down payment assistance and closing cost grants. Check with your lender about specific combinations.
What is the FHFA First-Time Home Buyer Mortgage Rate Discount?
This program provides eligible first-time buyers with a mortgage rate discount of up to 1.75 percentage points off current rates. You must be a first-time buyer, use a conventional mortgage, and be a low- or moderate-income earner.
How do I find down payment assistance programs in my area?
Search for your state's housing agency website, contact your local housing authority, check with your employer for home buyer benefits, and search for local housing nonprofits. Programs vary by location and funding availability.
