Home Buyer Down Payment Grants for Single Mothers in Nebraska

Last updated: September 2025

This guide gives you the fastest, most reliable paths to real down payment help in Nebraska. Every program and office listed has a direct link, phone, or both. Expect straight talk, steps you can follow today, and backup plans if funding is tight.

---

If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

• Call a NIFA‑approved lender and ask for “NIFA HBA/WHA with second mortgage assistance” to check same‑day eligibility.Use the lender finder inside [Nebraska Investment Finance Authority (NIFA) Homebuyers & Renters], then ask about the 1% second mortgage capped at 5% of the price under [NIFA Homebuyer Assistance] and the income/purchase limits under [NIFA Welcome Home]. (nifa.org)
• Ask your bank if it participates in the Federal Home Loan Bank Topeka “TurnKey” grants and whether HSP ($15,000)orHOPE($12,500) funds are still available.Share this language: “Please check your FHLBank Topeka TurnKey participation and 2025 HSP/HOPE status.” Learn the basics at [FHLBank Topeka HSP], [FHLBank Topeka HOPE], and [TurnKey overview]. (fhlbtopeka.com)
• If you’re rural or open to smaller cities, ask about $0‑down USDA loans and which Nebraska areas are eligible today.Start at [USDA Rural Development Nebraska State Office], check [USDA “Check Eligibility”], and keep the customer service line handy at 1‑800‑414‑1226 via [USDA Contact — Home Loan CSC]. (rd.usda.gov)

---

Quick Help Box — Numbers and Links to Keep Handy

• NIFA Homeownership Team: 1‑800‑204‑6432 — programs and lender help at [NIFA Programs & Eligibility], second‑mortgage rules at [NIFA Homebuyer Assistance], and income/purchase caps at [NIFA Welcome Home]. (nifa.org)
• HUD‑Approved Housing Counselors: 1‑800‑569‑4287 — find counseling at [HUD Talk to a Housing Counselor], more guidance at [HUD Counseling Hub], and first‑time buyer info at [HUD Housing Counseling — FAQs]. (hud.gov)
• USDA RD Nebraska (single‑family loans): 1‑402‑437‑5551 — office page at [USDA RD Nebraska], statewide contacts at [Nebraska Contacts directory], and national site at [USDA Rural Development]. (rd.usda.gov)
• VA Home Loans for Veterans: 1‑877‑827‑3702 — regional loan center info at [VA RLC Contact], general contacts at [VA LGY contact], and help if you’re struggling at [VA Mortgage Servicing Assistance]. (benefits.va.gov)
• Nebraska Energy & Utility Emergencies (LIHEAP): ACCESSNebraska 1‑800‑383‑4278 — apply or ask questions at [DHHS LIHEAP], seasonal updates at [LIHEAP News — Heating Season Ending], and the ACCESS portal at [ACCESSNebraska portal]. (dhhs.ne.gov)

---

What Counts as a “Down Payment Grant” in Nebraska?

Most true grants here come through banks that tap Federal Home Loan Bank Topeka funds or through nonprofit/city programs that layer forgivable loans. NIFA, the state housing finance agency, pairs its first mortgage with a tiny‑interest second mortgage that behaves like a grant for cash‑flow purposes in many cases.

• Learn state options at [NIFA Homebuyers & Renters], compare second‑mortgage terms at [NIFA Homebuyer Assistance], and see 2025 limits under [NIFA Welcome Home]. (nifa.org)
• Bank‑based grants run through FHLBank Topeka’s [Homeownership Set‑Aside Program (HSP)], mid‑income HOPE grants via [TurnKey HOPE], and high‑cost area boosts under [HSP+]. (fhlbtopeka.com)
• City and regional nonprofits include [NeighborWorks Lincoln DPA], [Southeast Nebraska Community Action (SENCA) DPA], and tribal DPA like [Northern Ponca Housing Authority — FHLB‑NAHI DPA]. (nwlincoln.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a HUD counselor to search every current DPA in your county using their locator at [HUD counseling search], ask your lender to run “DPA One” or internal DPA lists, and consider timing your purchase around FHLBank’s March‑June funding windows listed in [TurnKey news and allocations]. (hud.gov)

---

The Fastest State Route: NIFA Loans With Built‑In Down Payment Help

NIFA’s Homebuyer Assistance (HBA) and Welcome Home Assistance (WHA) pair a first mortgage with a low‑cost second mortgage. The second loan can cover down payment and closing costs up to 5% of the price. The second runs 10 years at 1% simple interest.

• Check today’s program matrix at [NIFA Programs & Eligibility], read HBA details at [NIFA Homebuyer Assistance], and confirm 2025 income/purchase limits at [NIFA Welcome Home]. (nifa.org)
• Rate sheets change often, so verify on [NIFA Home Page — Rates panel] and ask a participating lender to quote APRs. [NIFA Rates panel] lists last change 09/08/2025 and shows second at 1.000% for HBA/WHA. (nifa.org)

Who qualifies, what’s the cap, and how do you apply?

• Eligibility: First‑time buyers (or in target areas/veterans), must meet income and purchase price limits. Use the map and limits under [NIFA First Home Program page] and [Welcome Home page], and take education if first‑time. (nifa.org)
• Second‑loan amount: Up to 5% of purchase price, 10‑year term at 1% per [NIFA HBA details] and the matching lender page at [NIFA HBA — Lenders & Realtors]. (nifa.org)
• Apply: Pick a lender listed in [NIFA Participating Lenders], ask for “HBA/WHA with down payment assistance,” and complete the credit file. Education options appear on [NIFA First‑time Homebuyer Education]. (nifa.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your score or DTI misses NIFA, ask about conventional [Fannie Mae HomeReady] (3% down, 80% AMI cap), [Freddie Mac Home Possible] (3% down, 80% AMI), or [Freddie Mac HomeOne] (3% down for first‑timers), which all allow grants and many non‑borrower sources for down payment. (yourhome.fanniemae.com)

---

Bank‑Based Grants You Can Stack: FHLBank Topeka TurnKey (HSP, HOPE, HSP+)

These are real grants delivered through participating banks and credit unions. You don’t apply to FHLBank directly — your lender submits the reservation. Funds often run out by summer.

• HSP offers up to $15,000forfirst‑timebuyers\le 80$12,500 for ≤150% AMI buyers; status “fully reserved” at [FHLBank HOPE]. High‑cost counties may see up to $25,000 under [HSP+]. (fhlbtopeka.com)
• Banks post their own pages; for a live example see [First State Bank — HSP $15,000]\ast and\ast [FirstStateBank—HOPE$12,500] with 2025 dates and limits. (1fsb.bank)
• FHLBank’s TurnKey news page shows the monthly allocation cadence and notes system issues in May/June; ask your loan officer when their allocation resets using [TurnKey allocations update]. (fhlbtopeka.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If funds are spent, have your lender watch for cancellations, check other FHLBank member banks via the [FHLBank Member Directory], and ask whether their shop uses the [Mortgage Rate Reduction Product] to lower your rate instead of cash. (fhlbtopeka.com)

---

City and Regional Down Payment Help You Should Know

Lincoln — NeighborWorks Lincoln DPA (interest‑free, payment‑deferred)

NeighborWorks Lincoln offers an interest‑free, deferred‑payment loan covering 5% down and closing costs. Payment is due when you sell or stop living in the home. As of 9/1/2024, the purchase price cap for existing homes was $247,000; call to confirm 2025 caps.

• Read program details at [NeighborWorks Lincoln — DPA], their [Rehab Assistance note], and the City’s [Home Ownership Programs portal] that routes buyers to NeighborWorks Lincoln. (nwlincoln.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Join a class at [NeighborWorks Lincoln — Homeownership], call the City’s Urban Development team via [Housing Support Programs], and layer NIFA or FHLBank per sections above. (nwlincoln.org)

Omaha — Housing counseling, DPA‑friendly lenders, and HCV homeownership

Omaha’s strongest supports are counseling and lender networks that plug you into NIFA and FHLBank grants. If you hold a Housing Choice Voucher, you may be able to buy with voucher support.

• Start with [Family Housing Advisory Services (FHAS)] for HUD‑approved education, explore lender options through [Omaha 100], and check the [Omaha Housing Authority Bridges to Homeownership] path for voucher holders (credit score and down payment minimums apply). (fhasinc.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Consider nonprofit builders. Try [Habitat for Humanity of Omaha — Homeownership], see the main [Habitat Omaha] page for support, or reach the office at 1‑402‑457‑5657 via [Habitat Omaha — Contact]. (habitatomaha.org)

Southeast Nebraska — SENCA DPA (Cass, Johnson, Nemaha, Otoe, Pawnee, Richardson)

SENCA offers up to 20% of the price (max $15,000)asalow‑interest,deferredloan,plusupto$15,000 for essential repairs. First‑time buyers and income limits apply.

• Read eligibility and apply at [SENCA Down Payment Assistance], see [SENCA Owner‑Occupied Rehab], and consider [SENCA Homebuyer Education] for required classes. Call 1‑402‑862‑2411 x112 to confirm current funding. (senca.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask lenders about [FHLBank HSP] in your county, pair with [NIFA HBA], or ask a counselor via [HUD Talk to a Housing Counselor] to search nearby programs. (fhlbtopeka.com)

Southwest & Central Nebraska — programs open and closed cycles

Some rural DPA cycles close when funds are obligated. One example: Southwest Nebraska Community Betterment Corporation shows DPA closed and invites calls for alternatives.

• Check current status at [SWNCBC Down Payment Assistance page], see the [SWNCBC homepage] for new‑construction and OOR updates, and consider education via [SWNCBC eHomeAmerica]. (southwestne.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Use USDA pathways at [USDA RD Nebraska], ask a HUD counselor at [HUD counseling search], and layer NIFA as needed at [NIFA Programs & Eligibility]. (rd.usda.gov)

Tribal‑specific — Northern Ponca Housing Authority and Section 184

If you’re a member of a federally recognized tribe, you may qualify for tribal DPA and the Section 184 Indian Home Loan (lower down payment and flexible underwriting).

• Explore Northern Ponca’s [FHLB‑NAHI DPA application], learn Section 184 basics at [HUD Section 184 overview], and connect with borrower resources at [Section 184 Borrowers page]. (poncahousing.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your TDHE about 184 participating lenders at [Section 184 Lenders & Tribes], contact HUD Omaha at 1‑402‑492‑3101 via [Contact HUD: Nebraska], and ask FHLBank about the [Native American Housing Initiatives Grants (NAHI)] in your area. (hud.gov)

Small‑town build‑and‑buy — Pawnee City’s $50,000 down payment offer

Pawnee City’s Vision 2030 is building new for‑sale homes and offering up to $50,000asa0$325,000 were posted for the first homes.

• See local info at [Pawnee City New Homes — Vision 2030], City Hall contact at 1‑402‑852‑2781 via [Pawnee City Hall Contact], and local media coverage from [10/11 Now — KOLN]. (pawneecitynewhomes.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about other NAHTF‑backed projects at [Nebraska Affordable Housing Trust Fund], check neighboring community action DPA like [SENCA DPA], and layer NIFA or FHLBank per earlier sections. (opportunity.nebraska.gov)

---

Federal Mortgage Paths That Work Well With Grants

• FHA: Minimum 3.5% down; can use gifts, grants, or approved seconds for down payment. Understand MIP rules under [HUD Loans Overview (3.5% down)], MIP policy at [HUD MIP page], and cancellation rules at [HUD Discontinuing MIP]. (hud.gov)
• USDA: $0 down in eligible areas; income caps apply. Start at [USDA RD Nebraska], check your address under [USDA Eligibility Tool], and find local staff via [Nebraska Contacts]. (rd.usda.gov)
• VA: $0 down for eligible veterans, service members, and some surviving spouses. Get help at 1‑877‑827‑3702 via [VA RLC Contact], see [VA LGY contact], and review buyer resources under [VA Real Estate Pro Toolkit]. (benefits.va.gov)
• Conventional 3% paths: [Fannie Mae HomeReady] and [Freddie Mac Home Possible] cap income at 80% AMI, allow DPA and cancelable PMI; [Freddie Mac HomeOne] serves first‑time buyers with 3% down. (yourhome.fanniemae.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your lender about pairing a smaller FHA or conventional down payment with [FHLBank HSP] if new funding opens, or use [HOPE] if within 150% AMI when the next allocation drops. (fhlbtopeka.com)

---

How to Apply Without Wasting Time

• Get preapproved first: Ask two lenders the same day for NIFA HBA/WHA and TurnKey grant availability. Use [NIFA Programs & Eligibility] to confirm you fit, then ask about [FHLBank HSP] or [HOPE] reservations. (nifa.org)
• Take the required class early: Book [HUD counseling], [NeighborWorks Lincoln classes], or [FHAS workshops] now so your certificate doesn’t slow closing. (hud.gov)
• Pick a property that fits the rules: Check NIFA purchase price caps under [NIFA Welcome Home], city caps like [NeighborWorks Lincoln DPA], and USDA eligibility at [USDA Eligibility]. (nifa.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a housing counselor to build a 30‑day plan via [HUD counseling hub], pause home shopping, and re‑run numbers with a smaller price or different loan at [HomeReady] or [Home Possible]. (hud.gov)

---

Required Documents — Bring These to Every Appointment

• Photo ID and Social Security card: For all adult borrowers. Confirm identity expectations via [HUD counseling FAQs], reference [NIFA First Home Program] checklists, and your lender’s portal from [NIFA Programs & Eligibility]. (hud.gov)
• Income proof: Last 30 days of pay stubs and two years of W‑2s/tax returns. USDA/VA/FHA will test income under [USDA RD Nebraska], [VA RLC Contact], and [HUD Loans Overview]. (rd.usda.gov)
• Bank statements and benefit letters: Two months is typical. Confirm with [HUD counseling], align to [FHLBank HSP resources], and follow lender guidance under [NIFA HBA page]. (hud.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re missing documents, ask your counselor at [HUD counseling] for substitutes and write a Letter of Explanation your lender can accept under [NIFA Programs & Eligibility]. (hud.gov)

---

Realistic Timelines and What to Expect

• Preapproval: Same day to 72 hours. NIFA loans follow normal underwriting; the second mortgage is prepared at closing per [NIFA HBA page] and lenders’ pipelines seen on [NIFA Programs & Eligibility]. (nifa.org)
• Grant reservations: FHLBank reservations can happen in minutes when funds are live; note 2025 HSP/HOPE opened March 3 and were fully reserved later in the year per [HSP page] and [HOPE page]. (fhlbtopeka.com)
• City/nonprofit assistance: Expect 2–6 weeks if inspections or rehab scopes are involved (for example, [NeighborWorks Lincoln Rehab page] pairs with DPA). Call to confirm wait times. (nwlincoln.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If funding windows are closed, ask your lender to queue your file for the next [TurnKey] release, keep NIFA preapproval active via [NIFA Programs & Eligibility], and watch local feeds like [City of Lincoln Housing Support] for new rounds. (fhlbtopeka.com)

---

Tables — Quick Comparisons You Can Screenshot

NIFA and Bank Grant Pairings

Federal Loans That Fit DPA

City/Regional DPA Snapshots

Who to Call — Fast Reference

Utility Crisis — Where to Stop a Shutoff Today

---

Application Checklist — Screenshot‑Friendly

• Photo ID for every adult: Driver’s license or state ID; see guidance at [HUD counseling FAQs] and your lender’s list at [NIFA Programs & Eligibility]. (hud.gov)
• Social Security cards/ITIN letters: For all household members if requested; cross‑check with [HUD counseling] and [NIFA First Home Program]. (hud.gov)
• 30 days of pay stubs + last two years W‑2s/returns: Applies for FHA/USDA/VA/conventional; confirm with [USDA RD Nebraska]. (rd.usda.gov)
• Two months of bank statements: Include all pages; FHLBank TurnKey may require income documentation per [HSP resources]. (fhlbtopeka.com)
• Proof of child support or benefits: If used for qualifying; ask a HUD counselor at [Talk to a Housing Counselor]. (hud.gov)
• Homebuyer education certificate: NIFA and FHLBank accept various courses; see [NIFA education note] and [TurnKey education requirements]. (nifa.org)

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting to book your education: Classes fill up. Reserve now through [HUD counselor locator], [FHAS workshops], or [NeighborWorks Lincoln classes] so your file isn’t stuck at “final approval pending education.” (hud.gov)
• Not asking your bank about FHLBank TurnKey: Many banks don’t offer it unless you ask. Bring printouts of [HSP] and [HOPE], and confirm staff can submit a reservation. (fhlbtopeka.com)
• Shopping in areas that don’t fit the loan: Check [USDA Eligible Areas] before touring rural properties; confirm NIFA price caps under [Welcome Home]; verify city DPA caps like [NeighborWorks Lincoln DPA]. (rd.usda.gov)
• Assuming FHA PMI will drop automatically: For most newer FHA loans, MIP doesn’t cancel until payoff; read [HUD MIP rules] before you commit. (hud.gov)
• Missing easy fair‑housing help: If you’re steered away or treated unfairly, contact [Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission] and [HUD Omaha Field Office] at once. (neoc.nebraska.gov)

---

Reality Check — Funding Gaps, Waiting Lists, and What You Can Control

• TurnKey funds are competitive: 2025 HSP/HOPE opened March 3 and were fully reserved later; ask banks to queue your file for cancellations or next round using [TurnKey overview] and [HSP page]. (fhlbtopeka.com)
• City DPA can be slow: Rehab‑tied programs often need inspections (see [NeighborWorks Lincoln Rehab]), which can add weeks. Start early and keep your seller informed. (nwlincoln.org)
• Rates change: NIFA rate panels update frequently; track the [NIFA rates panel] and lock when your lender advises. (nifa.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Strategize a backup. Keep a preapproval active at [NIFA], monitor [FHLBank news] for new allocation dates, and widen your map to USDA‑eligible areas using the [Eligibility Tool]. (nifa.org)

---

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

• Best first call: [NIFA Programs & Eligibility] for HBA/WHA + lender referral.Then ask that lender to check [FHLBank HSP] or [HOPE] status and reserve if possible. (nifa.org)
• If you’re rural: Pair [USDA RD Nebraska] with [NIFA] and see if a bank layer like [HSP] can cover closing costs. (rd.usda.gov)
• If you’re a veteran: Ask for [VA loans], then add NIFA or [HOPE] if within income. Keep 1‑877‑827‑3702 handy. (benefits.va.gov)

---

Diverse Communities — Tailored Pointers and Contacts

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask lenders about inclusive underwriting and welcome policies, then use [HUD counseling] to document any bias. If you face discrimination, file with [NEOC] and also notify [HUD Omaha] for guidance. (hud.gov)

Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Make sure homes meet accessibility needs; FHA loans can wrap energy/accessibility improvements per [HUD Loans]. Ask about LIHEAP repair assistance at [DHHS LIHEAP] and request large‑print docs through [HUD counseling] or your bank’s accessibility office. (hud.gov)

Veteran single mothers: Use [VA Home Loans] for $0 down and, if needed, counseling via [HUD counselor locator]. If servicer issues arise later, call 1‑877‑827‑3702 per [VA Servicing Help]. (benefits.va.gov)

Immigrant/refugee single moms: Habitat programs in Omaha and Lincoln accept ITINs; start with [Habitat Omaha Homeownership], [Habitat Lincoln Homeownership], and get free advice from [FHAS] (bilingual staff available). (habitatomaha.org)

Tribal‑specific resources: Enrolled members should compare [Section 184 loans], local TDHE options via [Section 184 Participating Tribes], and tribe DPA like [NPHA NAHI DPA]. Ask HUD ONAP questions via the [Section 184 borrowers page]. (hud.gov)

Rural single moms with limited access: Use [USDA RD Nebraska], check [Eligibility Tool] before touring, and ask regional nonprofits like [SWNCBC] about any upcoming DPA rounds. (rd.usda.gov)

Single fathers: All programs here are gender‑neutral. Use [NIFA], [HUD counseling], and [FHLBank HSP] exactly as above. (nifa.org)

Language access: HUD counseling supports 250+ languages at 1‑800‑569‑4287 via [HUD Talk to a Housing Counselor], CFPB handles complaints in 180+ languages at 1‑855‑411‑2372 via [CFPB Contact Us], and many nonprofits provide interpreters on request. Ask for TTY/TDD if needed under [CFPB contact page]. (hud.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your counselor to include reasonable accommodations in writing and escalate any access issues to [HUD Omaha Field Office] and [NEOC]. (hud.gov)

---

Resources by Region (Examples to Start Your Calls)

• Omaha metro: [FHAS] for counseling (1‑402‑934‑7921), [Habitat Omaha] for Home Journey and repairs, and [Omaha Housing Authority — Homeownership] if you hold an HCV. (fhasinc.org)
• Lincoln/Lancaster: [NeighborWorks Lincoln DPA] (interest‑free deferred), [City of Lincoln Home Ownership Programs], and [Habitat Lincoln] for income‑qualified mortgages. (nwlincoln.org)
• Southeast counties: [SENCA DPA] and classes at [SENCA Homebuyer Education]; layer with [FHLBank HSP] via your bank. (senca.org)
• Northeast/Columbus/Norfolk: [NeighborWorks Northeast Nebraska — 2‑1‑1 listing] for classes and assistance and a referral to local DPA when cycles open; still pair with [NIFA]. (search.ne211.org)
• Central/Panhandle: [SWNCBC status page] for current DPA cycles, and [USDA RD Nebraska] for zero‑down options where eligible. (southwestne.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a counselor to do a county‑by‑county scan via [HUD counselor locator], then call your bank with [TurnKey overview] in hand to see which grants they can reserve. (hud.gov)

---

How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Nebraska Today

• Call ACCESSNebraska now: 1‑800‑383‑4278 and request crisis LIHEAP. Read rules at [DHHS LIHEAP], check updates in [LIHEAP news], and ask about Heating/Cooling Repair and Replacement (up to $5,000). (dhhs.ne.gov)
• Ask about water help: Some households qualify under LIHWAP; details and numbers appear at [DHHS LIHWAP]. Keep your account number handy when calling. (dhhs.ne.gov)
• Document and negotiate: A housing counselor at [HUD counseling] can call your utility with you and help set a plan while your DPA/mortgage file moves forward. (hud.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Escalate through your provider’s hardship desk, ask for help from your city’s community development office (for example, [City of Lincoln Housing Support]), and contact the utility regulator if needed through a counselor referral. (lincoln.ne.gov)

---

Troubleshooting — If Your Application Gets Denied

• Ask for the reason in writing: Housing programs must tell you why. Bring the letter to [HUD counseling] and your lender’s manager.
• File a fair‑housing complaint if appropriate: Call [NEOC] (1‑800‑642‑6112) and alert [HUD Omaha Field Office] if you believe bias played a role. (neoc.nebraska.gov)
• Complain about lender issues: Submit a CFPB complaint at [CFPB — Submit a complaint] or call 1‑855‑411‑2372 in 180+ languages via [CFPB Contact Us]. (consumerfinance.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Try a different lender that offers [TurnKey grants], shift to [USDA RD Nebraska] if rural, or reset your price point and revisit [NIFA Programs & Eligibility] after 30 days. (fhlbtopeka.com)

---

Step‑by‑Step — Putting It All Together

1. Get preapproved with two lenders who do [NIFA HBA] and [TurnKey HSP/HOPE]. Ask them to reserve funds and send you a screenshot when they do. (nifa.org)
2. Take class with a [HUD counselor] or a local partner like [FHAS] or [NeighborWorks Lincoln]. Upload the certificate to both lenders. (hud.gov)
3. Pick homes that fit [USDA eligibility] or [NIFA price limits] and your DPA criteria. Have your agent confirm before you write. (rd.usda.gov)
4. Lock and layer: Lock the first mortgage, stack [HSP/HOPE] if live, keep the [NIFA second] at 1% for cash‑flow. (fhlbtopeka.com)
5. Close with documents ready: A clean file shortens time. If a city rehab is involved (e.g., [NWL Rehab]), build inspection time into your contract. (nwlincoln.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Switch to a USDA or VA route, tighten your budget, and keep your NIFA preapproval active while waiting for the next [TurnKey] allocation. (rd.usda.gov)

---

FAQs — Nebraska Down Payment Help for Single Moms

1. How much can I really get for down payment help in Nebraska: With NIFA HBA you can cover up to 5% as a 1% second, and with FHLBank HSP/HOPE grants you may add $12,500–$15,000 if funds are open. Check [NIFA HBA], [HSP], and [HOPE] for 2025 specifics. (nifa.org)
2. Do these programs work with FHA loans: Yes. FHA allows gifts, grants, and approved seconds. Read [HUD Loans — 3.5% down] and MIP rules under [HUD MIP] so you know the cost. (hud.gov)
3. Can I buy in a small town with $0 down: USDA might work if the address is eligible and you meet income caps. Start at [USDA RD Nebraska] and [Eligibility Tool]. (rd.usda.gov)
4. I have a voucher — can I buy: Possibly in Omaha under the [OHA Bridges to Homeownership] program with credit and down payment minimums. Combine with NIFA if the lender allows. (ohauthority.org)
5. What are the 2025 NIFA income and price limits: As of 7/7/2025, NIFA lists a household income limit of $175,500andpurchasepricelimitsof$485,500 (1‑unit) and $607,000 (2‑unit) on the [Welcome Home page]. Always confirm the exact program you’re using. (nifa.org)
6. Are there city programs in Lincoln: Yes. [NeighborWorks Lincoln DPA] is interest‑free and deferred; City of Lincoln routes first‑timers via [Home Ownership Programs]. Check the 2025 price cap before making offers. (nwlincoln.org)
7. Is Pawnee City really offering $50,000: Yes, as a 0% second for new Vision 2030 homes, with income guidelines posted at [Pawnee City New Homes] and coverage by [10/11 Now]; call City Hall at 1‑402‑852‑2781 via [Pawnee City contact] to confirm current availability. (pawneecitynewhomes.com)
8. Where do I report unfair treatment by a lender or agent: File with [NEOC], notify [HUD Omaha Field Office], and consider a complaint to [CFPB] at 1‑855‑411‑2372. (neoc.nebraska.gov)
9. How long will this take: Preapproval can be same‑day; grants depend on funding windows — 2025 [HSP] and [HOPE] opened March 3 and later fully reserved. City DPA with rehab (e.g., [NWL Rehab]) can add weeks. (fhlbtopeka.com)
10. Who can help me compare options in plain English: Book a [HUD counselor], call NIFA at 1‑800‑204‑6432 via [NIFA Programs & Eligibility], and ask your bank about [FHLBank TurnKey]. (hud.gov)

---

Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups

• Affordable homeownership partners include [Habitat for Humanity of Omaha], [Habitat Lincoln], and counseling through [FHAS]. Many churches partner with Habitat’s “Rock the Block” and home repair days. (habitatomaha.org)
• Regional nonprofits and community action agencies include [SENCA] for DPA/rehab, [SWNCBC] for rural housing initiatives, and [NeighborWorks Lincoln] for city DPA. Ask about wait lists and income limits up front. (senca.org)
• Tribal housing resources for enrolled members include [Northern Ponca Housing Authority] and the federal [HUD Section 184 program]. (poncahousing.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Use the [HUD counselor locator] to find a nonprofit near you, call NIFA at [Programs & Eligibility], and ask your bank to confirm [HSP/HOPE] status. (hud.gov)

---

County‑Specific Variations That Matter

• Douglas/Sarpy (Omaha): More lenders offer [TurnKey HSP/HOPE] and NIFA; HCV homeownership at [OHA] can be a path for voucher holders. (fhlbtopeka.com)
• Lancaster (Lincoln): City channels first‑timers through [NeighborWorks Lincoln DPA]; confirm price caps and neighborhood incentives before shopping. (nwlincoln.org)
• Rural counties: Many addresses are [USDA]‑eligible; pair this with [HSP] if the bank participates. (rd.usda.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If a county runs out of DPA, pivot to a USDA or NIFA route and lower your target price while you wait for [TurnKey] reallocations. (fhlbtopeka.com)

---

Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español

Esta traducción fue producida con herramientas de IA para su comodidad.

• Busque préstamos de [NIFA — Programas y Elegibilidad] con ayuda para el enganche (segundo préstamo al 1%). Llame al 1‑800‑204‑6432 para hablar con NIFA. (nifa.org)
• Pregunte a su banco por las becas de [FHLBank Topeka — HSP] (hasta $15,000)y\ast [HOPE]\ast (hasta$12,500) — los fondos se abren en marzo y se agotan rápido. (fhlbtopeka.com)
• Si compra en zona rural, revise [USDA RD Nebraska] y la [herramienta de elegibilidad] para 0% de enganche. (rd.usda.gov)
• Para educación y consejería gratuita, llame a [HUD — Consejeros de Vivienda] al 1‑800‑569‑4287. Para quejas a entidades financieras, contacte [CFPB — Enviar queja] al 1‑855‑411‑2372. (hud.gov)

---

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

• [Nebraska Investment Finance Authority (NIFA)] — HBA/WHA programs, rates, and 2025 limits. (nifa.org)
• [Federal Home Loan Bank Topeka — TurnKey HSP/HOPE/HSP+] — 2025 grant amounts, dates, and status. (fhlbtopeka.com)
• [U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)] — FHA, counseling, fair housing contacts. (hud.gov)
• [USDA Rural Development — Nebraska] — state office contacts and program links. (rd.usda.gov)
• [VA Home Loans] — regional contact and borrower assistance. (benefits.va.gov)
• [City/Nonprofit programs] — [NeighborWorks Lincoln DPA], [SENCA DPA], and [Habitat Omaha]. (nwlincoln.org)

Last verified: September 2025, next review: January 2026.

Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

---

Disclaimer

This guide is for general education. It is not legal, tax, or lending advice. Program terms, funding, and eligibility change without notice. Always confirm current availability and terms directly with the agency or lender listed. Use [HUD counseling], [NIFA Programs & Eligibility], and your lender’s disclosures to make final decisions. (hud.gov)

---

Thank you for doing the hard work to secure a stable home. Keep this page, make the calls, and ask every lender about NIFA and TurnKey first — then layer city or nonprofit help on top.

---

🏛️More Nebraska Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Nebraska

• 📋 Assistance Programs
• 💰 Benefits and Grants
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Child Support
• 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
• ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
• 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
• 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
• 🎓 Education Grants
• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
• 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
• 🔧 Job Training
• ⚖️ Legal Help
• 🧠 Mental Health Resources
• 🚗 Transportation Assistance
• 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
• ⚡ Utility Assistance
• 🥛 WIC Benefits
• 🏦 TANF Assistance
• 🏠 Housing Assistance
• 👶 Childcare Assistance
• 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
• 🚨 Emergency Assistance
• 🤝 Community Support
• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
• 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
• 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
• 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
• 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
• 👩‍💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
• 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
• 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery