Q: Is assistance available through the USDA to help rural residents make improvements to their homes?
A: Yes. USDA Rural Development invests roughly $100 million annually to provide rural Iowa families with safe, decent and sanitary housing. This includes low-interest loans and grants available to families with modest means to help them make essential home repairs. As
Iowa’s harsh winter weather conditions approach, I encourage eligible residents to take advantage of this investment in our rural communities to help keep their families comfortable and home energy bills more affordable. The typically 20-year loans have a fixed interest rate of one percent for eligible applicants.
As a senior member of the U.S. Senate Agriculture Committee, I support the mission of USDA Rural Development to help improve the quality of life for families who choose to make a home in rural America. So much of the spotlight shines on the population-rich corridors on the coastlines. From my leadership position in the U.S. Senate, I make it my business to give voice to the needs of rural Americans. USDA Rural Development plants venture capital seeds in hometown communities to help fertilize infrastructure improvements and other economic development efforts that foster growth, homeownership and prosperity in Rural America.
Q: What types of home repairs would qualify for the program?
A: For homes located in communities of less than 20,000 people, eligible improvements may include the repair and/or replacement of storm doors, windows, steps, furnaces, water heaters and roofs. Residents also may seek loan assistance for insulation, electrical, plumbing, septic and water systems. Grants also may be available to those who are 62 or older to remove health and safety hazards and make a home more accessible for persons with disabilities.
Q: Who is eligible for assistance?
A: Those applying for assistance must own and live in the home needing repairs. Household income must fall under the income limits for the county and size of household. Typically, a one-person household must have an adjusted income of $18,750 or less, but the limit varies by county. Income thresholds also increase for larger households. Interested Iowans may contact Rural Development’s office in Des Moines at 515/284-4663. In addition to the state office in Des Moines, 10 satellite offices in Albia, Atlantic, Humboldt, Indianola, Iowa Falls, Le Mars, Mount Pleasant, Storm Lake, Tipton and Waverly serve the 1.9 million Iowans living in rural communities. Find more information on the agency’s website at www.rurdev.usda.gov/ia.