- March 25, 2026
- Greg Hettrick
FHLB Dallas Provides HELP for First-Time Homebuyers
That’s why FHLB Dallas is putting a substantial amount of funding into its popular Homebuyer Equity Leverage Partnership (HELP) program in 2026: $17 million. HELP gives qualifying first-time homebuyers a real shot at homeownership by easing the upfront financial burden.
Here’s what our members and the potential homebuyers they serve can expect this year in assistance for down payments and closing costs:
- Up to $25,000 for first-time homebuyers in Texas and New Mexico
- Up to $20,000 for first-time homebuyers in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and for those residing outside of our five-state District
These grants fund down payments and closing costs, two of the biggest challenges first-time homebuyers face when saving for a home purchase.
HELP awards are forgiven monthly over five years. The grants are provided through our member financial institutions and not directly to consumers. If you are a potential homebuyer, we encourage you to reach out to a participating member to see if you qualify for HELP assistance. There’s also more information about HELP available at fhlb.com.
Next Funding Round Opens Soon
Here are the dates for the remaining four rounds:
- Monday, April 6
- Monday, May 4
- Monday, June 15
- Monday, September 8
If you are a member who has never used HELP, signing up is easy. Go to the HELP page at fhlb.com where you’ll find a one-time AdobeSign enrollment application. Once enrolled, a member financial institution submits applications on behalf of their homebuyers. Grants are disbursed to the member once an application is approved and your homebuyer has or is preparing to close.
Affordable homeownership is still attainable. We are here to help!
Greg Hettrick is senior vice president and director of Community Investment at FHLB Dallas.
