Home Repair Grants in Missouri

Table of Contents

This plain‑language guide is for Missouri homeowners who need help fixing critical problems like roofs, plumbing, heat, wiring, and accessibility. It highlights fast first steps, the best programs to try, and how the money works.

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

Read this if you are a Missouri homeowner who is:

a senior, a person with a disability, a veteran, or a single parent; or
very low or low income; or
living in a rural town; or
recovering from storm, flood, or tornado damage.

Quick check (most programs require):

You own and live in the home (owner‑occupied).
Your home is in Missouri and the repairs are for health, safety, or code needs.
Your household income is within a program’s limit (often based on HUD’s income limits tool).
You have not started work yet (most grants will not reimburse work begun before approval).

Top Programs in Missouri (Quick Table)

“Example max help” is for quick orientation only. Amounts change and most awards are smaller. Always confirm on the official program page.

Program	Type	Example max help ($)	Main audience	Where to apply
USDA Section 504 Home Repair (statewide)	Grant + 1% loan	Grants up to $10,000; loans up to $40,000; can combine to $50,000 (disaster variant up to $55,000)	Very‑low income; rural; grants for age 62+	USDA’s Missouri 504 page (Housing Program Section, 573‑876‑0990)
Missouri Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)	Free efficiency & health/safety work	Varies by home; no customer payback	Low‑income homeowners (and qualifying renters with landlord OK)	State WAP weatherization page and local agencies list
MHDC Home Repair Opportunity (HeRO)	Grant via local agencies	Varies by agency & project	Income‑qualifying owner‑occupants	MHDC’s HeRO program (see “Participating Agencies”)
City of St. Louis Healthy Home Repair	Grants + program loans (case‑by‑case)	Varies; health/safety focus	Low/mod homeowners inside city limits	City CDA program page and online intake (314‑657‑3888)
Kansas City, MO Home Repair Programs	Grants/materials (varies)	Varies; yearly application window	Owner‑occupants in KCMO	KCMO home repair hub (816‑513‑3025)
Columbia Home Rehab & Energy Efficiency	Local rehab help	Varies by scope	Owner‑occupants in Columbia at/below 80% AMI	Columbia’s rehab program
St. Charles Home Improvement Loan Program	Forgivable loan (5‑year)	Varies; health/safety first	Low/mod owner‑occupants in St. Charles	St. Charles program page
Springfield HELP (Emergency Loan)	0% loan	Varies; urgent fixes	Income‑qualified Springfield owners	Springfield’s repair assistance
FEMA Individuals & Households (disasters)	Grants (no payback)	Varies by damage & declaration	Homeowners in declared counties	FEMA application checklist and how to apply

Short Federal Snapshot (with Missouri links)

USDA 504 repair (rural Missouri): grants for very‑low‑income owners age 62+ to remove health/safety hazards, and 1% loans for other essential repairs. Start on USDA’s Missouri 504 page (Housing Program Section 573‑876‑0990). For background, see the plain‑language Section 504 guide.
Weatherization (WAP) in Missouri: the state’s Division of Energy manages WAP and assigns cases to local agencies. Begin at the state weatherization page and find your local agency list.
Disaster repair: if your county is declared, apply for FEMA’s Individual Assistance. Use the FEMA apply guide and checklist. Missouri’s SEMA recovery page explains state steps and joint damage assessments.

Missouri Programs (Core Section)

USDA Section 504 Home Repair (statewide, rural)

For rural Missourians, USDA 504 is often the first call. The program offers grants for seniors 62+ to remove health/safety hazards and 1% loans for other critical repairs. Missouri’s official details, including contacts, are on USDA’s Missouri 504 page. For a plain‑English overview, see the 504 explainer.

Money: grants (no payback) for eligible seniors; loans at 1% interest up to 20 years. Example: a $20,000 loan at 1% over 20 years is about $92/month (principal & interest).
Limits: USDA lists current caps as $10,000 grants and $40,000 loans (disaster variant up to $15,000 grant and $55,000 combined). See “How much money can I get?” on the Missouri program page.
Basics: home must be in an eligible rural area (check USDA’s Missouri RD hub for office contacts).

Heads up: USDA grants must be repaid if you sell within 3 years. Loans are debt with a lien; make sure payments fit your budget.

Missouri Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

WAP provides free energy and safety upgrades (air sealing, insulation, venting, HVAC repair/replacements where needed). You apply through a local agency assigned by the state. Start on Missouri DNR’s weatherization page and use the “Local Weatherization Agencies” link.

Money: not a loan and no lien; work is provided at no cost to eligible households.
Priority: elderly, disabled, families with children, and the lowest incomes often go first per the state’s residential assistance.

MHDC Home Repair Opportunity (HeRO)

Missouri Housing Development Commission uses a portion of HUD HOME funds to help with non‑cosmetic, health/safety repairs through local partners. MHDC doesn’t take household applications directly; you apply with a local subrecipient. See the MHDC HeRO program page and click “Participating Agencies.”

Money: typically grants (terms vary by subrecipient). Expect an inspection and a work scope focusing on essential needs.
Timing: funds are allocated in rounds; if a partner’s funds are out, ask when to reapply and whether there’s a wait list.

Low-Income Energy Help (LIHEAP/ECIP)

For utility shut‑off crises or heating failures, Missouri’s LIHEAP can help with one‑time energy payments and crisis aid (ECIP). Learn the current windows and rules on the state’s LIHEAP page, or review the application checklist posted by the Family Support Division’s forms portal.

Money: payments to your utility; not a loan. Crisis help requires proof of disconnect or similar emergency.
Tip: applying for LIHEAP can unlock utility‑sponsored credits like Ameren’s EEIC credit or coordinated upgrades through CommunitySavers.

City & Local Highlights

City of St. Louis – Healthy Home Repair: grants and program loans for owner‑occupants focused on health and safety. See CDA’s program page and new online intake at Apply HHR.
Kansas City, MO – Home Repair Programs: City Home Repair, Paint Program (free paint/supplies), and Targeted Repair windows typically open in spring. Check the KCMO home repair hub and program subpages like Paint Program.
Columbia – Home Rehab & Energy Efficiency: rehab to code and efficiency upgrades for owners at or below 80% AMI. See Columbia’s program page.
St. Charles – Home Improvement Loan: five‑year forgivable loans for code and health/safety repairs. Details on the city’s program page.
Springfield – HELP: 0% emergency loans for urgent repairs; partner agencies may add grants. See Springfield’s repair assistance.

Do not start work before approval. Most programs will not reimburse work that began earlier. Keep all paperwork and do not pay contractors cash up‑front without a signed agreement.

City & County Programs (More Examples)

Not a full list. Smaller cities often use HUD Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) or HOME funds—call your City Hall Community Development office. The state’s CDBG program overview is at the Department of Economic Development’s CDBG page.

City/County	Program	Typical help	Who qualifies	How to apply
City of St. Louis	Healthy Home Repair	Health/safety repairs; lead hazards; case management	Low/mod owner‑occupants in city	CDA program page (314‑657‑3888)
Kansas City, MO	City Home Repair / Paint / Targeted	Critical repairs; free paint/supplies; targeted area fixes	Owner‑occupants in KCMO (some neighborhood targets)	KCMO home repair hub
Columbia	Home Rehab & Energy Efficiency	Rehab to code; efficiency upgrades	≤ 80% AMI within city limits	City program page
St. Charles	Home Improvement Loan	Forgivable loan for code/health fixes	Low/mod owner‑occupants in city	City program page
Springfield	HELP (Emergency Loan)	0% emergency repair loans; partner grants possible	Income‑eligible city homeowners	Springfield program page

Income Limits & Who Usually Qualifies

Most programs use HUD’s Area Median Income (AMI)income limits tool.

Example (Columbia MSA, 80% AMI): as of April 1, 2025, the City of Columbia lists 1‑person at $59,300 and 4‑person at $84,650 for certain local programs; see the city’s income limits posted.
City of St. Louis posts current program limits for CDA programs on its income limits page and program sheets.

Tip: HUD updates income limits annually (often spring). Always confirm current limits in the HUD Income Limits tool and on your program’s page.

Special Groups & Short Examples

Seniors (62+)

Try first: USDA 504 grants for seniors for hazards (rural only) via USDA’s Missouri 504 page, plus state WAP via Weatherization.
Ask your Area Agency on Aging about minor home modifications (grab bars, ramps) through the Department of Health & Senior Services’ home modification page. For context, see the seniors background guide on seniors’ grants.
Example: A 70‑year‑old homeowner near Rolla with a failing furnace may qualify for WAP HVAC repair and USDA 504 grant to remove the hazard. Actual help depends on an inspection and funding.

Veterans

For service‑connected disabilities, VA’s SAH/SHA grants can fund home adaptations (ramps, baths, doors). For FY 2026, VA lists SAH up to $126,526 and SHA up to $25,350 on the VA’s disability housing page. Apply using VA Form 26‑4555 on the VA how‑to‑apply page.
Nonprofits also help: Rebuilding Together runs Veterans at Home through affiliates like Rebuilding Together KC and Rebuilding Together St. Louis (free critical repairs where funding allows).
Example: A veteran in Liberty with mobility limits could combine a VA SAH ramp grant with Rebuilding Together KC safety modifications. Amounts vary by assessment.

Disabled Homeowners

Start with WAP for efficiency and health/safety repairs via the DNR weatherization page, then check your city/county rehab (e.g., St. Louis Healthy Home Repair).
Example: In St. Louis City, a homeowner using a wheelchair may get doorway widening and entry improvements through the CDA program after an intake review.

Rural Residents

USDA 504 is often the fastest route for rural Missourians; confirm eligibility on the USDA Missouri 504 page.
Also contact your local WAP provider from the state weatherization list.

Families with Children / Single Parents

Programs may prioritize homes with children for hazards (heat, wiring, lead). Check your city page (e.g., Columbia rehab program) and WAP residential assistance.

Step‑by‑Step Action Plan

Today (or as soon as you can)

List urgent problems (roof leak, no heat, unsafe wiring). Take photos. Gather bills and estimates (if you have them).
Call 2‑1‑1 and ask for home repair and weatherization referrals. In most of Missouri, dial 2‑1‑1 or use United Way 2‑1‑1 online.
If you are rural and very low income, call USDA (573‑876‑0990) from the Missouri 504 page to pre‑screen.
If your heat is out or you have a disconnect notice, contact LIHEAP via the state’s LIHEAP page or your local LIHEAP office listed on the forms portal.

This week

Apply to the best two programs for you:
- Rural & very‑low income → USDA 504 + WAP.
- St. Louis City → CDA Healthy Home Repair + WAP.
- Kansas City, MO → City Home Repair + WAP.
- Columbia, Springfield, St. Charles → your city rehab/loan page + WAP.
Check if you qualify for utility upgrades: Ameren’s CommunitySavers, Spire’s rebates, and Evergy’s Energy Savings Kit.

This month

Keep a folder: IDs, deed, tax bill, insurance, income proof, utility bills, photos. Many programs ask for the same items.
Return calls quickly. Missed calls can move your case to the bottom of a waitlist.
For disasters, apply at DisasterAssistance.gov and follow SEMA’s damage assessment steps.

Wait times: Weatherization and city rehab wait lists can be months. Apply early. Keep documents handy for quick response.

Plan B, Appeals, and Common Mistakes

If denied: Ask for the reason in writing. Ask whether there is an appeal or re‑review. Ask when to reapply.
Try other doors: Ask your county/city about CDBG/HOME owner rehab. Check MHDC’s HeRO agencies. Call 2‑1‑1 for nonprofits like Rebuilding Together KC and Rebuilding Together St. Louis. For senior mods, contact the state AAA home mods.
Safe loans only: If you must borrow, compare terms. USDA 504 loans are 1% fixed; the Missouri 504 page is here.

Common mistakes (and quick fixes):

Starting work before approval → wait for your written award/contract.
Missing documents → keep a folder; ask for a document checklist.
Wrong program → if you’re rural, start with USDA 504; if in KCMO or STL City, start with your city program.
Unlicensed contractors → ask the program to bid the job or confirm licensing.
Title issues (heirs’ property) → contact Missouri Legal Services at lsmo.org or, in St. Louis, the Neighborhood Advocacy team for title/beneficiary deed help.

Disaster rule: You cannot be paid twice for the same damage (“duplication of benefits”). If FEMA pays for your roof, another program usually can only cover remaining unmet need. Confirm details on FEMA’s apply page.

Tax/benefits note: Ask the agency or a tax professional if a grant or forgiven loan could affect your taxes or benefits (SSI, SSDI, SNAP).

Phone Scripts

Keep it short. Have your address, deed or tax bill, income, and a simple list of problems handy.

Calling WAP/Weatherization (state or local agency)
“Hi, I live in [City/County]. I’m an owner‑occupant and need help with [heat/insulation/safety]. Can you tell me how to apply for Weatherization and which local agency serves my address?”
If needed, call the Division of Energy (573‑751‑2254) from the DNR weatherization page.
Calling USDA Rural Development (Section 504)
“Hi, I’m calling about Section 504 Home Repair. I own and live in my home in [Town], and my household income is about [$X]. I’m [age 62+/under 62]. Could I pre‑screen for a grant or 1% loan, and what documents should I prepare?” See the program’s Missouri 504 page.
Calling a city/county rehab office
“Hi, I’m an owner‑occupant at [address]. I need help with [roof/wiring/heat]. Do you have a homeowner rehab or emergency repair program? What are the income limits and current application dates?” Use the KCMO home repair hub or St. Louis Healthy Home Repair.
Calling a nonprofit (Rebuilding Together)
“Hi, I’m a low‑income homeowner in [County]. I’m looking for help with [safety modifications/critical repair]. Are you accepting applications? What documents do you need?” Try Rebuilding Together KC or Rebuilding Together St. Louis.

FAQs (Missouri‑Specific)

Do Missouri programs help with mobile/manufactured homes?
It depends. WAP may serve manufactured homes if energy savings pencil out (see the DNR weatherization page). Many city rehab programs do not assist mobile homes—always check your program page (e.g., KCMO’s Paint Program excludes mobile homes).

I’m a little over the income limit. Any options?
Ask about priority hazards, disability, or senior status. Consider WAP (which has its own rules), utility programs like Ameren’s CommunitySavers and Spire’s rebates, and nonprofit options through Rebuilding Together.

What is a forgivable or deferred loan?
Some programs record a lien but forgive it over time if you stay in the home. Example: St. Charles issues five‑year forgivable loans (see the city’s program page). If you sell or move too soon, you may owe part back.

How long are wait lists in Missouri?
It varies. Weatherization and big‑city rehab can take months. Apply early, keep documents ready, and answer calls. Check your program page for status (e.g., St. Louis CDA HHR page).

We had tornado/flood damage. Where do we start?
If your county is declared, apply with FEMA using the application checklist, then ask SEMA about state steps on its recovery page. Keep insurance and FEMA letters for other programs.

Who can help with title or heirs’ property issues?
Legal aid can help clear title so you can qualify. Start at Missouri Legal Services or, in St. Louis, the Neighborhood Advocacy team.

Roof problems—any focused help?
Many programs will consider roofs if leaking or unsafe (city rehab, USDA 504, WAP for related health/safety). For background on how roof help works, see this roof repair overview, then apply to your local program page listed above.

Can veterans get extra help?
Yes—if you have a qualifying service‑connected disability, the VA SAH/SHA programs can fund adaptations. See VA’s housing grants page and the VA apply page. Local nonprofits may also help.

One‑Page Checklist & Contact Summary

Quick Checklist

List health/safety problems; take photos.
Check income limits in HUD’s Income Limits tool.
Gather: ID, deed or tax bill, insurance, income proof, recent utility bills.
Apply to 2–3 programs: USDA 504 (rural), state WAP, your city/county rehab. For disasters, apply to FEMA.
Track: dates, case numbers, names, phone/email, next steps.

Contacts (save these)

Agency / Program	How to reach
USDA 504 (Missouri)	See USDA’s Missouri 504 page (Housing Program Section 573‑876‑0990)
Weatherization (state)	Missouri DNR weatherization page (find your local agency)
LIHEAP (energy help)	State LIHEAP program page and application portal
City of St. Louis (CDA)	HHR info at program page · Intake: Apply HHR · 314‑657‑3888
Kansas City, MO	Home Repair hub programs page · 816‑513‑3025
Columbia	Rehab/Efficiency program page
St. Charles	Forgivable loans program page
Springfield	HELP loans program page
FEMA (disasters)	Apply & checklist at DisasterAssistance.gov · See apply guide
SEMA (state disasters)	Recovery steps at SEMA recovery
2‑1‑1 (referrals)	Dial 2‑1‑1 · Online via United Way 2‑1‑1
Legal aid (title, liens)	Statewide portal lsmo.org (find your office)

Resumen en español (Short Spanish Summary)

Guía rápida para dueños de vivienda en Missouri con ingresos bajos. Si necesita reparar su casa por problemas de seguridad (techo, calefacción, cableado, accesibilidad), empiece con estos programas:

USDA Sección 504 (zonas rurales): ayuda para reparar peligros. Personas de 62+ pueden recibir subvenciones; otras reparaciones pueden usar préstamos al 1%. Vea la página de USDA Missouri.
Weatherization (WAP): mejoras gratis de energía y seguridad (aislamiento, calefacción). Busque su agencia local en la página estatal de Weatherization.
Programas de su ciudad/condado: St. Louis (Healthy Home Repair), Kansas City (Home Repair), Columbia, Springfield y St. Charles tienen ayuda. Vea los portales de St. Louis CDA y Kansas City.
Desastres/FEMA: si su condado fue declarado, solicite en DisasterAssistance.gov y siga la guía de SEMA.

¿Necesita ayuda con el proceso o intérprete? Llame al 2‑1‑1 (United Way) y pida servicios de intérprete. Tenga sus documentos listos (identificación, escritura o factura de impuestos, comprobantes de ingresos, facturas de servicios).

Reminder and Where to Double‑Check Information

Check HUD’s income limits tool for current AMI numbers.
Confirm USDA 504 details on the Missouri program page.
Find Weatherization (WAP) rules and your local agency at the state weatherization page.
For disasters, use FEMA’s apply guide and SEMA’s recovery page.
For referrals anywhere in Missouri, call 2‑1‑1 or use United Way 2‑1‑1.

Rules, amounts, and income limits change. Always confirm with the agency or a trusted housing counselor. This guide is not legal, tax, or financial advice.