Repair Grants in States

Last updated: December 2025
Checked against official sources as of December 2025. This is general information, not legal or financial advice, and we are not a government agency.

Who This Is For & Quick Eligibility Check

This guide is for New York homeowners who are:

• Seniors or people with disabilities needing safe, accessible housing.
• Very low to moderate income and living in older homes that need critical repairs.
• Rural homeowners (upstate, small towns) or city homeowners (NYC and other metros).
• Veterans and surviving spouses with service‑connected needs.
• Families recovering from storms or flooding.

Quick check before you spend time on applications:

• You own and live in the home as your primary residence (most programs require this).
• Your home is in New York (and often in a specific city/county).
• Your income is within a limit tied to the HUD “Area Median Income (AMI).” You can check your area using HUD’s income limits tool during the year.
• You need health, safety, weatherization, accessibility, or code‑related repairs (these get priority).

Top Programs in New York (Quick Table)

Amounts are examples only—each program sets its own caps, rules, and budget. Always confirm details on the official program page before you apply.

Short Federal Snapshot (with New York links)

• USDA Section 504 (rural): In New York, the program is run by the USDA Rural Development New York office. Very‑low‑income rural owners can apply year‑round for a 1% loan (up to $40,000) or, for age 62+, a grant (up to $10,000) to remove health/safety hazards; see USDA’s official program page. A $20,000 loan at 1% for 20 years is about $92/month (principal and interest).
• Weatherization (WAP): New York’s WAP is administered by HCR and delivered by local providers; start on HCR’s weatherization applicants page. For a plain‑English overview of what WAP covers and how it works, see this concise WAP guide.
• FEMA disaster help: After a Presidential disaster declaration, apply for Individual Assistance at DisasterAssistance.gov and check state updates on DHSES’s Individual Assistance page. You cannot be paid twice for the same damage (“duplication of benefits”), so keep all insurance and FEMA decision letters.

New York State Programs (Core Section)

1) Weatherization Assistance Program (energy & health/safety)

WAP provides free home energy upgrades (insulation, air sealing, heating/cooling safety) to income‑eligible households. New Yorkers can confirm eligibility and contact local providers on HCR’s WAP applicants page. WAP is administered by HCR’s Office of Housing Preservation and funded by U.S. DOE and LIHEAP; see the program overview on HCR’s weatherization page.

Money style: WAP is a grant in the form of installed work—no repayment. Expect an energy audit, a scope focused on cost‑effective measures, and potential wait‑lists in high‑demand counties.

2) HEAP Heating Equipment Repair & Replacement (HERR)

If your furnace/boiler or direct heating equipment fails, HEAP HERR can pay an approved contractor to repair or replace it. OTDA lists the benefit caps (for example, up to $4,000 for a repair or up to $8,000 for a replacement) and how to apply on the HEAP program page and the State’s HERR service page.

Money style: Grant paid to the vendor or reimbursement; do not start work before the district authorizes it. Emergency HEAP also exists for shutoff/out‑of‑fuel situations; watch opening dates on OTDA’s HEAP page.

3) RESTORE (seniors, urgent hazards)

RESTORE assists seniors age 60+ with urgent health/safety repairs (e.g., unsafe roofs, broken steps, hazardous wiring). HCR’s page explains eligibility and recent policy updates (e.g., the individual project cap increased to $20,000) on the official RESTORE program page. You apply through a local grantee selected by the State.

Money style: Grant. Grants are administered locally; expect income review (generally up to 100% AMI), a quick health/safety scope, and proof you live in and own the home.

4) Access to Home (accessibility modifications)

Access to Home funds ramps, lifts, wider doorways, roll‑in showers, and other accessibility changes so people with disabilities can remain safely at home. Rules and local administrators are on HCR’s Access to Home page. Some variants support veterans or Medicaid recipients through designated grantees.

Money style: Grant to a local not‑for‑profit/government that manages the work. Owner‑occupied or rental units are eligible when the resident meets disability and income criteria.

5) Resilient Retrofits (flood resilience, statewide)

Resilient Retrofits offers a 50/50 mix of grant and low‑interest loan (up to $50,000 total) for flood vents, sump pumps, backwater valves, relocating utilities above flood lines, and related improvements. See HCR’s program page and a recent announcement summarizing amounts and administrators on HCR’s news release.

Money style: Half grant + half 3% loan. Income is generally up to 120% AMI. The loan creates monthly payments; ask for the amortization schedule before you sign.

6) AHC & home improvement via local partners

New York’s Affordable Housing Corporation (AHC) provides grants to local governments and nonprofits for repairs and rehabilitation of 1–4 family, owner‑occupied homes. Homeowners do not apply to AHC; you apply to a local grantee listed on HCR’s AHC page or in HCR’s Grants Available Through Local Partners. Some projects also use HUD HOME or CDBG funds administered by HCR’s Office of Community Renewal on the OCR page.

Money style: Often a grant with a affordability period or a forgivable/deferred loan secured by a lien. Ask how long the lien lasts and what happens if you sell or transfer.

7) Water & septic help

Homeowners in designated priority areas can get help to replace failing septic systems under the State’s Septic System Replacement Fund (run by participating counties). In the NYC West‑of‑Hudson Watershed, the Catskill Watershed Corporation funds septic repairs and replacements via its septic repair and replacement programs, and offers stormwater reimbursements described on the stormwater management page.

City & County Programs (Selected)

Tip: If your town isn’t listed, call City Hall or your County Community Development office and ask about “owner‑occupied rehabilitation” funded by CDBG or HOME. You can also search HCR’s Grants Available Through Local Partners to find active grantees by county.

Income Limits & Who Usually Qualifies

Programs use income limits based on the HUD “Area Median Income (AMI)” for your metro/county. Some use 80% of AMI, others 50% or 60%, and some use different cutoffs. Always confirm with the program and, when in doubt, check HUD’s income limits tool.

• Example: In the Buffalo‑Cheektowaga MSA, the local housing authority lists an 80% AMI limit for a 4‑person household at $80,800; see the BMHA income table on the Public Housing Program page.
• Example: Onondaga County’s SHAPE‑UP shows a 4‑person income limit of $82,800 (effective April 1, 2025) on the County’s program page. Programs using HUD funds typically follow these tables.
• NYC programs often use HPD AMI bands; for instance, HomeFix is open up to 165% AMI and posts sample dollar amounts (e.g., 4‑person household at $267,300) on HPD’s HomeFix page.

These are examples only. HUD updates AMI each year. Use the HUD income limits tool and the program’s official page to confirm current limits for your household size.

Special Groups & Where to Start

Seniors (age 60+)

Start with HCR’s RESTORE for emergency hazards. In NYC, check HPD’s SCHAP for low/no‑interest and potentially forgivable loans. Seniors needing weatherization or safer heating should apply to WAP on HCR’s WAP applicants page and consider HEAP HERR on OTDA’s HEAP page. For a simple overview of senior‑focused options, see this plain‑English seniors repair guide.

Example: A 70‑year‑old homeowner in Albany with a failing furnace could use HEAP HERR for a replacement (vendor paid) and WAP for insulation and air sealing. If a leak caused mold, RESTORE may help address the hazard.

Veterans

Veterans with service‑connected disabilities can apply to VA’s SAH/SHA accessibility grants (find details on VA.gov) and also use New York’s Access to Home (some administrators prioritize vets). In NYC, HPD’s HomeFix offers favorable terms for low‑income owners, and veteran households can also apply for WAP and HEAP where eligible.

Example: A veteran homeowner in Suffolk County who needs a ramp and bathroom modifications could combine a VA grant with Access to Home administered locally by CDCLI, as listed on their Access to Home page.

Disabled homeowners

For accessibility changes (ramps, lifts, door widening, roll‑in showers), check HCR’s Access to Home and county programs like Onondaga’s RAMP. Weatherization can also install health/safety items (like CO/smoke detectors) per HCR’s WAP page.

Rural residents

Start with USDA Section 504 and WAP. USDA New York lists area offices and contacts on the State page at RD New York. For well/septic issues, confirm eligibility under EFC’s septic replacement fund.

Step‑by‑Step Action Plan

Today (or as soon as you can)

1. List your repair problems by urgency (safety, heat, roof leaks, accessibility).
2. Gather documents: ID, deed, property tax bill, homeowners insurance, utility bills, income proof (pay stubs, Social Security, award letters), mortgage statement.
3. Check your likely eligibility with HUD’s income limits tool.

This week

1. If heat/hot water failed, call your county’s HEAP office via OTDA’s HEAP page about HERR (don’t start work before approval).
2. Apply to WAP through an HCR‑listed local provider; ask about wait‑lists.
3. If you’re rural and very low income, call USDA’s NY office listed at USDA RD New York and ask about Section 504.
4. If you’re in NYC, start with HPD’s HomeFix to cover major systems and roofs; seniors can also look at SCHAP.

This month

1. Check state/local programs: RESTORE (HCR program page), Access to Home (HCR page), Albany/Onondaga/Rochester county/city pages above.
2. If you’ve had flood or sewer backup risk, consider HCR’s Resilient Retrofits; in Albany, see the backwater valve reimbursement.
3. Call 211 to ask about local nonprofits (Habitat, Rebuilding Together). For NYC, dial 311 for city services or use United Way’s 211 directory.

Expectations: Weatherization wait‑lists can be several months. Loan closings (USDA, HPD) can take time. Keep your phone on, voicemail clear, and documents ready.

Plan B, Appeals, and Common Mistakes

• If denied: Ask for the denial in writing, the reason, and whether there is an appeal or re‑review. Ask when you can reapply.
• If funds are out: Ask about wait‑lists and the next funding round on the HCR local partners list, or check USDA’s 504 page—504 is open year‑round.
• Duplication of benefits: Disaster grants (FEMA, state programs) cannot pay for the same item twice. Keep your FEMA and insurance letters; see DisasterAssistance.gov’s steps.
• Title issues (heirs’ property): Programs usually need proof of ownership. If you inherited the home without a clear deed, contact Legal Aid or your county bar association for help clearing title.

Common mistakes and quick fixes:

• Starting work before approval → Wait for written authorization (HEAP HERR, city rehab, FEMA).
• Missing documents → Use a simple folder; ask the program for its checklist.
• Unlicensed contractor → Use lists provided by programs or check licensing with your city/county.
• Not answering calls → Programs often call from blocked/unknown numbers. Pick up or call back quickly.
• Not understanding liens → Many “grants” are forgivable loans with a lien for 3–10 years. Ask the term, recapture rules, and what happens if you sell or refinance.

Phone Scripts (keep it short and specific)

Calling a Weatherization provider

“Hi, my name is [Name]. I own and live at [address] in [County]. My household of [#] is roughly [X]% of AMI. I’d like to apply for Weatherization for insulation and heating safety. Could you tell me your intake steps and current wait‑time?” (Find your provider on HCR’s WAP applicants page.)

Calling a city/county rehab program

“Hi, I’m calling about your owner‑occupied rehabilitation program. I have [urgent issue]. I’m an owner‑occupant at [address] with household income around [amount]. What documents do you need and is there a wait‑list?” (Examples: Albany ACDA’s programs, Rochester’s EAP/Rehab.)

Calling USDA Rural Development (Section 504)

“Hello, I’m a rural homeowner in [Town/County]. I’m interested in Section 504 home repair. My income is about [amount] for [#] people. Could you confirm if I’m eligible for the 1% loan or, if I’m 62+, the grant? What’s the current timeline and documents needed?” (Use contacts on USDA RD New York.)

Calling a nonprofit (Habitat / Rebuilding Together)

“Hi, I’m an owner‑occupant in [City/County]. I need [critical repair/accessibility]. My income is about [amount] for [#] people. Do you have a critical home repair program open now, and can you help with scopes and contractors?” (Examples: Rebuilding Together NYC Housing Preservation; Rebuilding Together Saratoga Apply for Services.)

FAQs (New York‑specific)

Q1. Can mobile/manufactured homes get help?
Yes. WAP covers manufactured homes per HCR’s WAP applicants page, and HCR’s Mobile & Manufactured Home Replacement program funds local grantees to replace unsafe units sited on owner‑owned land.

Q2. I’m in NYC—what should I try first?
For major systems/roof work, start with HPD’s HomeFix. Seniors should also check SCHAP. For lead hazards, see HPD’s Lead Hazard Reduction. Apply to WAP via HCR’s provider directory.

Q3. My income is a little over the limit—any options?
Some programs allow higher incomes (e.g., NYC HomeFix up to 165% AMI on the program page). Statewide, HCR’s Resilient Retrofits serves up to 120% AMI. Utilities and NYSERDA’s EmPower+ also help moderate‑income households with energy upgrades.

Q4. Will I have to pay anything back?
True grants (WAP, many RESTORE projects) do not require repayment. HEAP HERR pays vendors directly. Many rehab programs use forgivable or deferred loans recorded as a lien—sell or move too soon and you may owe part or all back. HPD’s SCHAP explains loan types on its program page. USDA 504 loans are 1% for up to 20 years.

Q5. How do disaster grants interact with insurance?
FEMA and State recovery funds coordinate with insurance. You cannot be paid twice for the same damage. Keep all documentation and check the FEMA application checklist and DHSES Individual Assistance page.

Q6. I have a sewer backup problem—any help?
Some localities offer help for backflow/backup prevention. Albany runs a Backwater Valve Reimbursement. Check your city/county water or sewer department; septic system grants are listed on the State EFC septic replacement fund page.

Q7. I can’t afford heating fuel or my heat is off.
Apply to HEAP on OTDA’s program page and ask about Emergency HEAP and HERR for heating equipment. Some counties post local HEAP updates (e.g., Onondaga’s HEAP page).

Q8. How long will this take?
It varies. Weatherization often has a waiting list. USDA loan processing depends on funding and file completeness (contacts on RD New York). City rehab programs may batch applications; always ask for the current timeline.

One‑Page Checklist & Contact Summary

Checklist

• Write your top 3 urgent repairs.
• Check income eligibility on HUD’s income limits tool.
• Gather documents: ID, deed, tax bill, insurance, income proof, mortgage, utility bills.
• Apply to 2–3 primary programs: WAP, HEAP HERR (if heat), city/county rehab, USDA 504 (rural), and one nonprofit.
• Track: date applied, case number, contact name/phone/email, requested documents, deadlines.

Contacts (quick list)

Resumen en español

Esta guía es para propietarios de vivienda en New York con ingresos bajos o moderados (incluye personas mayores, con discapacidades, padres solteros, dueños en zonas rurales y veteranos). Su meta es mostrar dónde empezar, si podría calificar y los pasos para solicitar ayuda.

• Para eficiencia y seguridad en el hogar: solicite el Programa de Climatización (WAP) en la página de HCR para solicitantes de weatherization.
• Si su caldera/horno falló: pida la reparación o reemplazo por HEAP HERR en la página de OTDA HEAP. No empiece trabajos sin autorización.
• Si vive en zona rural y sus ingresos son muy bajos: llame a USDA Rural Development (Sección 504) en USDA New York (préstamos al 1% y, para mayores de 62 años, pequeñas subvenciones).
• Para dueños en NYC: empiece con HomeFix (préstamos de reparación) y, si es mayor de 60 años, con SCHAP.
• Si sufrió daños por tormentas o inundaciones: revise Resilient Retrofits y, si hay declaración federal, solicite en DisasterAssistance.gov.
• ¿Necesita ayuda para encontrar programas o intérprete? Llame al 211 y pida servicios de idioma.

Reminder and Where to Double‑Check Information

• Confirm income eligibility with HUD’s income limits tool.
• For USDA rural loans/grants, see the New York page at USDA RD New York and the national Section 504 page.
• For weatherization, use HCR’s WAP applicants page.
• For disaster help and declarations, check DisasterAssistance.gov and DHSES’s Individual Assistance page.
• To find local rehab grants administered by nonprofits or municipalities, use HCR’s Grants Available Through Local Partners.

Rules, amounts, and income limits change. Always confirm on the official program page or with a trusted housing counselor. If you’re unsure how a grant/loan affects your taxes or benefits (SSI, SSDI, SNAP), ask the agency or a tax professional.

This plain‑language guide is for low‑income South Dakotans—seniors, people with disabilities, single parents, rural homeowners, veterans, and anyone stressed about home repairs. It shows who may qualify, which programs to try first, what the money looks like, and the exact steps to apply.

Last updated: December 2025
Checked against official sources as of December 2025. This is general information, not legal or financial advice, and we are not a government agency.

Who This Is For & Quick Eligibility Check

• You own and live in a home in South Dakota (including many rural areas and reservations).
• Your home needs basic safety or habitability repairs (roof leaks, furnace, wiring, plumbing, accessibility, weatherization).
• Your income is low or very low for your county. Use HUD’s income limits tool or the City of Sioux Falls’ posted income guidelines to check a quick example.
• You can provide documents (ID, proof of ownership/occupancy, income, recent utility bill). If paperwork is hard, call South Dakota 211 and ask for help.

Tip: If you got money from insurance, FEMA’s repair grants or another program for the same damage, new aid can’t pay for that same item again (this is called “duplication of benefits”).

Top Programs in South Dakota (Quick Table)

Amounts below are examples only. Actual awards vary by inspection, need, and funding. Always confirm on the official page.

Program	Type	Example max help ($)	Mainly helps	Where to apply
USDA Section 504 Home Repair	Loan at 1% (20 yrs) and/or grant (62+)	Loan up to 40,000; grant up to 10,000 (up to 15,000 in declared disasters)	Very‑low‑income rural homeowners; urgent health/safety fixes	USDA 504 program page + USDA RD South Dakota office
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)	Free weatherization (no payback)	Cost of measures (insulation, air‑sealing, furnace safety)	Low‑income households; seniors; people with disabilities; high energy burden	DSS energy & weatherization (provider list) + DOE’s how to apply
Low‑Income Energy Assistance (LIEAP)	Utility bill help; emergency heat (no payback)	Varies by fuel, region, and 3‑month income	Low‑income households with heating costs; crisis help via ECIP	DSS Energy Assistance
SD Housing CHIP Loan	Low‑interest loan (repay monthly)	Based on underwriting; 2.9% interest	Owners who don’t qualify for grants but need affordable financing	SD Housing “Fix My Home”
Sioux Falls Single‑Family Rehabilitation	0% deferred loan (due on sale/move)	Based on scope; income ≤ 80% AMI	Owner‑occupants in city limits; roofs, systems, safety items	single‑family rehab page
Sioux Falls Mobile Home Repair	Forgivable loan (forgiven after 1 year)	Up to 5,000 (emergency repairs)	Mobile‑home owners in city limits; heat, electrical, plumbing emergencies	mobile home repair program
Huron Housing Rehabilitation	0% loan; part may be forgivable	Typically up to 15,000	Owner‑occupants in Huron; code, safety, accessibility	Huron Housing rehab program
HAPI (Aberdeen region) Home Repair Grants	Grant with forgivable mortgage	Varies; forgiven over 5 years	Owner‑occupants ≤ 80% AMI in NE/NC SD	HAPI repair grants
NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources	Low‑interest, deferred, or forgivable loans	Varies with inspection and need	Black Hills & western SD; “life‑safety” repairs	NeighborWorks home rehab
FEMA Individuals & Households Program (IHP)	Post‑disaster repair grant (no payback)	Varies; can’t duplicate insurance	Owners in presidentially declared counties with disaster damage	DisasterAssistance.gov checklist + IHP overview
BIA Housing Improvement Program (HIP)	Tribal repair/replacement grants	By category; tribal priority rules	Enrolled members on/near reservations with urgent need	BIA HIP program
IHS Sanitation Facilities Construction	Water/sewer projects (no payback)	Project‑based; health‑driven	American Indian households with water/wastewater needs	IHS Great Plains OEHE

Short Federal Snapshot (with where to click)

USDA 504 in South Dakota

Section 504 gives very‑low‑income rural homeowners a 1% loan (20 years) and, for age 62+, a small grant to remove health/safety hazards. Start on USDA’s program page, then connect with the USDA Rural Development South Dakota office. For an easy explainer you can skim first, see this plain‑English 504 guide (background primer).

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

WAP in South Dakota is run by the Department of Social Services and delivered by four Community Action agencies (Inter‑Lakes, GROW SD, ROCS, and Western SD Community Action). Apply via DSS’s energy & weatherization portal or see DOE’s how to apply for WAP.

FEMA disaster help

After a presidential disaster, you can apply for home repair grants through DisasterAssistance.gov and review FEMA’s Individuals & Households Program. Remember, FEMA can’t pay for the same item insurance already covered; see FEMA’s note on duplication of benefits.

South Dakota Programs (Core Section)

1) Energy & Weatherization (DSS)

For heating bills, apply to the state’s Low‑Income Energy Assistance (LIEAP) on the DSS Energy Assistance page. Crisis fuel help (ECIP) is available if you have a disconnect notice or less than 20% in your tank—call 800‑233‑8503 or use the DSS contact details.

For home efficiency and safety, apply to Weatherization on the same DSS page. Work may include air‑sealing, insulation, and furnace repairs. Priority goes to seniors, people with disabilities, and families with children. There’s no cost, but there can be a wait‑list; DSS lists local providers right on the program page.

2) SD Housing CHIP (Community Home Improvement Program)

SD Housing’s CHIP offers low‑interest loans (2.9%) for repairs and improvements through participating lenders. This is a real loan with monthly payments; it’s good when you don’t meet grant rules but need safe, affordable financing. Read program details on SD Housing’s Fix My Home page and ask for the CHIP lender list on that page.

Money clarity: CHIP is a standard loan. It puts a lien on your home and has monthly payments. If income is unstable, talk to a housing counselor via HUD’s South Dakota HUD page before you borrow.

3) City of Sioux Falls Housing Programs

• Single‑Family Rehabilitation: A 0% deferred loan (repaid when you sell or move), for roofs, plumbing, heating, wiring, windows, accessibility, etc. See the program page for eligibility and property rules.
• Mobile Home Repair: Up to $5,000 for emergency repairs; the loan is forgiven after one year of occupancy. Check the mobile home repair page and call 605‑367‑8180.
• Historic Preservation Loan: Zero‑interest loan (up to $25,000) for exterior work on homes in historic districts or individually listed. See the City’s historic loan program.

Income and program updates are posted on the City’s housing hub; see the Sioux Falls Housing Programs page and this 2025 announcement summarizing all three programs’ terms and limits on the City’s news release.

4) Community‑based rehab help (regional)

• HAPI (Homes Are Possible, Inc.) – Aberdeen area: Offers repair grants with a forgivable mortgage (typically forgiven over 5 years). See the HAPI repair grants page.
• NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources – Black Hills/western SD: Combines low‑interest, deferred, and forgivable loans for “life‑safety” repairs. Start at NeighborWorks home rehab.
• Huron Housing Authority – Huron: 0% loans with partial forgiveness (typical cap around $15,000); program focuses on code and safety. See the Huron rehab page.
• Mitchell Area Housing (MAHI) – Mitchell region: HOME rehab grants for critical items like roofing, HVAC, accessibility; details on MAHI’s HOME rehab page.

5) Veterans, tribal, and health‑related assistance

• VA adapted housing grants: Disabled veterans may qualify for SAH/SHA grants to adapt a home. Apply through VA’s adapted housing application and read current limits at the VA’s grant overview.
• BIA Housing Improvement Program (HIP): For enrolled tribal members with urgent repair or replacement needs; see the national HIP page or contact your tribal housing office.
• IHS Sanitation Facilities Construction: For water/sewer hazards affecting health; find Great Plains contacts on the IHS OEHE page.

6) Disasters in South Dakota (FEMA + State)

If storms or flooding are declared, apply quickly on DisasterAssistance.gov and watch FEMA’s South Dakota page for declared disasters and contacts. The state’s Office of Emergency Management can guide you to mitigation and local help; see OEM’s emergency management page or call 605‑773‑3231.

City & County Programs (at a glance)

Many smaller cities use federal CDBG/HOME funds through regional partners. If your city isn’t listed, call City Hall and ask for “owner‑occupied rehab” or check SD Housing’s Fix My Home page.

City/County	Program	What it helps	Who qualifies	How to apply
Sioux Falls	Single‑Family Rehabilitation	Deferred 0% loan; roofs, systems, accessibility	Owner‑occupied; ≤ 80% AMI; city limits	program page
Sioux Falls	Mobile Home Repair	Emergency heat, electrical, plumbing; forgivable after 1 year	Mobile‑home owners; ≤ 80% AMI	program page
Sioux Falls	Historic Preservation Loan	Zero‑interest for exterior work on historic homes	Owner‑occupied in listed districts	loan program
Rapid City	Community Enrichment (CDBG)	Funds flow to local projects; homeowner rehab often via partners	Low‑ to moderate‑income households	Contact the City’s Community Enrichment Division and ask about rehab resources
Huron	Housing Rehabilitation	0% loans; some forgivable; code and safety	Owner‑occupied homes in Huron	Huron Housing rehab
Aberdeen region	HAPI Home Repair Grants	Forgivable repair grants for critical needs	≤ 80% AMI; owner‑occupied	HAPI grants
Mitchell region	MAHI HOME Rehab	Roof, HVAC, accessibility, code	Owner‑occupied; income‑qualified	MAHI rehab
Black Hills/west	NeighborWorks DHR	Life‑safety repairs; project management	Owner‑occupied; income‑qualified	NeighborWorks rehab

Income Limits & Who Usually Qualifies

Programs set income using the Area Median Income (AMI). Some use 80% AMI, others 50%, and weatherization often uses 200% of poverty levels. Always check the exact rule on the program’s page.

• Use HUD’s official Income Limits tool to look up your county/metro and family size.
• For example, the City of Sioux Falls lists 2025 limits; 80% AMI equals about $89,750 for a family of four and about $62,850 for one person (see City housing income guidelines). These are examples only; your county may differ.

If your income is a little over the limit, ask about wait‑lists, hardship review, or low‑interest options like SD Housing’s CHIP loan. Housing counselors on HUD’s South Dakota page can help you compare choices.

Special Groups & Short Examples

Seniors (age 62+)

Start with Weatherization on the DSS weatherization page, then check USDA’s 504 grant for seniors on the USDA 504 page. If you live in Sioux Falls and own a mobile home, see the City’s Mobile Home Repair program.

Example: A 70‑year‑old homeowner in Huron with a failing furnace may qualify for Weatherization, and if more work is needed, Huron’s rehab program on the Huron Housing site could help with a 0% loan partly forgivable after time.

Veterans (including disabled)

Look at VA’s adapted housing grants (SAH/SHA) via the VA’s grant overview and application instructions. If you need general repairs (roof, steps, wiring), also check USDA 504 on the USDA RD South Dakota page and local rehab help like NeighborWorks’ home rehab. For a quick background summary of veteran‑focused options, this plain‑language veterans repair guide can help you prepare questions.

Example: A veteran near Rapid City who uses a wheelchair could pair a VA SAH ramp project (via the VA grants page) with weatherization safety fixes from DSS’s WAP.

Disabled homeowners

Ask Western Resources for Independent Living about ramps and barrier removal on the WRIL site, and connect with DHS through its statewide Department of Human Services portal. If you need health‑related water/sewer work, contact IHS via the Great Plains OEHE page.

Rural homeowners

USDA 504 is designed for rural addresses; check your address on the USDA program page and call the South Dakota office listed on USDA RD SD. For energy savings and furnace safety, apply to WAP from the DSS weatherization portal.

Families with children

WAP prioritizes households with children; start on the DSS WAP page. If you’re in Sioux Falls, also look at the Single‑Family Rehabilitation program for critical systems and safety repairs.

Common repairs: roof, heat, wiring

For roof damage from hail or wind, check city rehab options (e.g., Sioux Falls Single‑Family Rehab) and USDA 504 on the USDA page. If you want a simple background primer while you gather bids, this short roof repair guide explains typical documents and timing.

Step‑by‑Step Action Plan

Today (or as soon as you can)

1. Write a short list of problems (example: “roof leak over kitchen; furnace short cycling; back steps unsafe”). Take two phone photos of each issue.
2. Pull documents: photo ID, deed or title, most recent tax return or 3 months of income, utility bill, and insurance letter if you filed a claim.
3. Call South Dakota 211 and ask for “home repair, weatherization, and energy assistance referrals” and for help filling out forms if needed.

This week

1. If you are rural and very‑low‑income: call USDA RD at (605) 352‑1100 (see USDA RD SD) and ask about Section 504. Apply online (see 504 program page) or with a local specialist.
2. Apply to WAP and LIEAP on the DSS Energy & Weatherization page. If you have a disconnect or less than 20% tank, mention ECIP emergency assistance.
3. If you live in Sioux Falls: submit the Single‑Family Rehab or Mobile Home Repair application. Don’t start work before approval.
4. Outside Sioux Falls: call your nearest nonprofit—HAPI (home repair grants), NeighborWorks (home rehab), Huron Housing (rehab page), or MAHI (HOME rehab).

This month

1. If your income is a bit too high for grants, meet a CHIP lender through SD Housing’s Fix My Home page. Compare total cost and monthly payments.
2. For disaster damage, apply at DisasterAssistance.gov and read FEMA’s IHP overview. Keep receipts; take pictures before, during, and after repairs.
3. For accessibility needs, contact WRIL on the WRIL site and DHS on its main services portal for ramps and home modifications.

Expectations: Weatherization wait‑lists can be months. City rehab may run in funding rounds. Apply early, answer calls quickly, and keep copies of everything.

Plan B, Appeals, and Common Mistakes

If you’re denied or funds are gone

• Ask for the reason in writing and whether you can appeal or reapply. Use the program’s main contact (e.g., the DSS Energy & Weatherization page or the City program page).
• Request referrals to nonprofits (HAPI, NeighborWorks, MAHI) and to SD Housing’s CHIP lenders.
• For tribally enrolled households, check with your housing authority and the BIA’s HIP page for repair or replacement options.

Common mistakes (and quick fixes)

• Starting work before approval → Don’t. The Sioux Falls pages state prior work is not eligible; see the rehab program.
• Missing documents → Use the DSS application checklist and ask 211 to help you scan/upload.
• Wrong program → If income is too high for grants, pivot to SD Housing’s CHIP loan.
• Title issues/heirs’ property → Ask a HUD‑approved counselor via HUD’s South Dakota page for legal referrals (e.g., East River Legal Services or Dakota Plains Legal Services listed there).
• Home not in a rural area for USDA 504 → Use city rehab or CHIP; confirm rural status via USDA’s South Dakota RD office.

Taxes & benefits: Ask the agency or a tax professional if funds could affect taxes or benefits like SSI/SSDI or SNAP. Many grants are not taxable, but confirm. Utility rebates and credits (e.g., Black Hills Energy’s residential rebates) usually do not affect benefits.

Phone Scripts (short and practical)

Calling DSS about Weatherization/LIEAP

You “Hi, I live in [Town], and my home needs insulation/a furnace check. My household is [#] people. Can you help me apply for Weatherization and Energy Assistance? I have income papers ready.” [DSS Energy & Weatherization: program page]

Calling a city/county rehab program

You “Hello, I own and live at [address]. My roof/furnace/steps are unsafe. Do I qualify for your owner‑occupied rehab? My income is about [$] for [#] people. What documents should I bring?” [Sioux Falls: rehab page]

Calling USDA RD about Section 504

You “Hi, I’m calling about Section 504 home repair. I’m in [county], household of [#], income around [$]. I need [roof/furnace/electrical]. Can we check if my address is eligible and start the application?” [USDA RD: South Dakota office]

Calling a nonprofit (NeighborWorks/HAPI/MAHI)

You “Hi, I’m an owner‑occupant needing help with [repairs]. I’m under the income limit and can provide documents. Do you have grants, deferred loans, or project management? What’s the first step?” [Examples: NeighborWorks rehab • HAPI grants • MAHI rehab]

FAQs (South Dakota‑specific)

Can I get help for a mobile/manufactured home?

Yes in some programs. Sioux Falls has a dedicated Mobile Home Repair program for emergency fixes (forgiven after one year). WAP can serve manufactured homes; see DSS’s weatherization page. USDA 504 generally requires the unit be real property and on a permanent foundation.

Does Rapid City have homeowner repair grants?

The City manages federal CDBG funding through its Community Enrichment Division and often partners with nonprofits for housing projects. Call the City’s Community Enrichment Division and ask for homeowner rehab referrals (such as Black Hills Area Habitat or NeighborWorks).

What if my income is just over the limit?

Ask about hardship or different programs. The state’s CHIP loan is low‑interest and may fit. A HUD‑approved counselor via HUD’s South Dakota page can help you compare options and prevent risky debt.

How long do applications take?

DSS says LIEAP applications are processed within 60 days; see the DSS Energy Assistance page. Weatherization and city rehab often have wait‑lists. Apply early and respond quickly to calls or letters.

Will I have a lien or payback?

Read every agreement. Many “grants” are recorded as forgivable loans—if you sell or move before a set time, you may owe part back. Sioux Falls rehab is a 0% deferred loan (due on sale/move) per the program page. USDA 504 loans are real debt (1% for 20 years) on the USDA page.

I live on a reservation. Where do I start?

Contact your tribal housing authority first, then review BIA’s HIP program. For water/sewer hazards, contact IHS via the Great Plains OEHE contacts.

Do utility rebates exist in South Dakota?

Yes. Check your utility’s efficiency pages (for example, Black Hills Energy lists residential rebates) and ask your gas/electric provider about income‑qualified discounts. NorthWestern’s site points SD customers to DSS assistance on its payment assistance page.

What if a storm damaged my home?

Document everything, file insurance, then apply at DisasterAssistance.gov. FEMA can’t pay for the same item insurance covered; see the duplication rule in FEMA’s IHP overview. The state OEM page is here: emergency management.

One‑Page Checklist & Contact Summary

Application Checklist

• List urgent problems + photos.
• Proof you own and live in the home (deed/title, tax bill).
• Income proof (last tax return or 3 months of pay/benefits).
• Recent utility bill (for LIEAP/WAP) and fuel status.
• Insurance letter if you filed a claim (for FEMA or duplication checks).
• Two contractor estimates if the program asks (get licensed and insured).
• Submit, save your case number, and answer calls promptly.

Key Contacts (save these)

DSS Energy & Weatherization	program page • 800‑233‑8503
USDA Rural Development (SD)	state office • (605) 352‑1100
SD Housing (CHIP loans)	Fix My Home
Sioux Falls Housing	programs page • 605‑367‑8180
HAPI (Aberdeen area)	repair grants • 605‑225‑4274
NeighborWorks DHR (Black Hills)	home rehab • 605‑578‑1401
Huron Housing	rehab program • 605‑352‑1520
Mitchell Area Housing	HOME rehab • 605‑996‑1140
WRIL (accessibility)	about WRIL • 888‑434‑4943
FEMA (after disasters)	apply online • 800‑621‑3362
211 Helpline Center	get help • dial 211

Resumen en español (corto)

Esta guía es para propietarios de vivienda en Dakota del Sur con bajos ingresos (personas mayores, con discapacidades, familias monoparentales y residentes rurales). Explica programas clave, cuánto ayudan y cómo aplicar.

• Arreglos y calefacción: Solicite Asistencia de Energía y Climatización (Weatherization) en el portal de Servicios Sociales (DSS). Weatherization instala aislamiento, sella fugas y revisa el horno sin costo. LIEAP ayuda con facturas de calefacción; si tiene aviso de corte o menos de 20% de combustible, llame al 800‑233‑8503.
• Reparaciones en áreas rurales: El programa USDA Sección 504 ofrece préstamos al 1% y, para mayores de 62, pequeñas subvenciones para peligros de salud/seguridad. Vea la página de USDA 504 y contacte la oficina de USDA Dakota del Sur.
• Si vive en Sioux Falls: Revise el programa de rehabilitación de vivienda (préstamo diferido 0%) y el programa para casas móviles (hasta $5,000, perdonado tras 1 año).
• Desastres: Después de una declaración presidencial, aplique por ayuda de reparación de FEMA en DisasterAssistance.gov. No pueden pagar dos veces por lo mismo (si su seguro ya pagó por ese daño).
• Ayuda en su idioma: Llame al 211 y pida servicios de intérprete para que le ayuden con solicitudes (DSS, USDA, ciudad, FEMA).

Reminder and Where to Double‑Check Information

• Verify your income level for your county/metro using HUD’s Income Limits tool.
• For rural repair loans/grants, use USDA’s Section 504 page and the USDA South Dakota office.
• For energy assistance and weatherization, apply through the DSS Energy & Weatherization page.
• For disaster home repairs, apply through DisasterAssistance.gov and check FEMA’s IHP overview.
• For statewide referrals and help filling out forms, call the Helpline Center (211).

Rules, income limits, and amounts can change. Confirm details with the agency or a trusted housing counselor before you sign anything. This is not legal, tax, or financial advice.