Down payment assistance, grants, forgivable loans, and tax credits available to Massachusetts buyers. Each program below is verified, with eligibility rules, benefit amounts, and a direct link to the official agency.
Last reviewed July 2026·4 programs·6 federal programs
Down payment assistance as a 0% interest deferred loan for eligible lower-income buyers. Since July 2026 this is MassHousing's only 0% deferred DPA option (the standard DPA is now an amortizing second).
Income limit
AMI-based income limits - confirm current WFA limits with a MassHousing lender
Minimum credit score640
First-time buyer requiredYes
Special requirements: Income-targeted program; confirm current eligibility with a MassHousing-approved lender.
MassHousing mortgage for military households that includes a $2,500 closing cost credit for veterans, active-duty service members, National Guard, Reserves, and Gold Star Families purchasing a primary residence in Massachusetts.
Income limit
No income limits for military
First-time buyer requiredNo
EligibilityVeterans only
Special requirements: Must be veteran, active duty, or surviving spouse.
Down payment and closing cost assistance up to $25,000 as a 15-year amortizing second mortgage at 2-3% interest, available only with a MassHousing first mortgage. Statewide (all 351 cities and towns).
Income limit
Income limits vary by location - up to about $205,335 in Greater Boston counties
Minimum credit score640
First-time buyer requiredYes
Special requirements: Must complete homebuyer education. Property must be in Massachusetts.
Low down payment mortgage with reduced mortgage insurance. Allows income from non-borrower household members. A $2,500 credit for very-low-income borrowers (50% AMI or less) is available through early 2027 when at least one borrower is a first-time buyer.
Do I have to be a first-time homebuyer to qualify?
Most Massachusetts programs require first-time buyer status, but the definition is broader than most people think — the IRS considers you a first-time buyer if you haven't owned a primary residence in the last three years. Each program above lists its specific rules.
What credit score do I need?
Minimum credit scores vary by program. Most Massachusetts programs require 620 to 660, though some lower-tier products accept lower scores with manual underwriting. Check each program's eligibility section above.
How do I actually apply?
Most state programs aren't applied to directly — you go through a participating lender, who handles the program application as part of your mortgage. Each program above links to the official agency page with the current list of approved lenders.
Can I combine multiple programs?
Often yes — many states allow you to stack a state down-payment grant with a federal FHA or VA loan. Some programs explicitly forbid combining; check each program's "special requirements" above.
Do these programs cost anything?
The programs themselves are free to apply for. Some require completing a homebuyer education course (typically $50–$100, sometimes free). Forgivable second mortgages technically don't cost you unless you sell or refinance early — read the terms carefully.
