By Phil Ganz
Edited by Ryan Skerritt
The FL Assist program helps Florida homebuyers cover down payment and closing costs through a deferred second mortgage.
It offers up to $10,000 with 0% interest and no monthly payments, making it a key support tool for low-to-moderate income buyers.
Check Your FL Assist $10,000 DPA Eligibility Today
Repayment is deferred until specific events like sale, refinance, or moving out.
What Is the Florida Assist (FL Assist) Program?
The FL Assist Second Mortgage Program is a down payment assistance option for Florida homebuyers.
It offers a deferred second mortgage of up to $10,000 with no interest and no monthly payments.
Repayment is due only when the home is sold, refinanced, transferred, or no longer used as a primary residence.
Check Your FL Assist $10,000 DPA Eligibility Today
Key Benefits of the FL Assist Program
The FL Assist Program offers several advantages that make it easier for Florida homebuyers to afford upfront costs.
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Receive up to $10,000 for down payment or closing costs
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0% interest rate—no added cost over time
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Deferred payments until a triggering event
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Compatible with FHA, VA, USDA, and Conventional loans
These benefits make FL Assist a strong option for buyers who qualify but need help bridging the affordability gap at closing.
Check Your FL Assist $10,000 DPA Eligibility Today
FL Assist Eligibility Requirements for Florida Homebuyers
To qualify for the FL Assist Program, buyers must meet Florida Housing’s standard criteria for assistance programs.
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Must be a first-time homebuyer, veteran, or purchasing in a targeted area
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Home must be your primary residence
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Must meet income and purchase price limits for your Florida county
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Must use a participating Florida Housing lender
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May be required to complete a homebuyer education course
Meeting these requirements ensures you can access FL Assist funding and combine it with your eligible first mortgage loan.
FL Assist Loan Terms and Repayment Conditions
The Florida Assist (FL Assist) Program provides a second mortgage loan in an amount not to exceed $10,000. The loan carries a zero percent (0%) interest rate and does not require monthly payments during the term of occupancy. Repayment of the loan principal is deferred and becomes due in full upon the occurrence of any of the following events: (i) sale or transfer of the subject property, (ii) refinancing or satisfaction of the first mortgage, (iii) cessation of occupancy by the borrower as their primary residence, or (iv) maturity of the second mortgage loan. This loan is non-forgivable and must be repaid in accordance with the terms outlined in the executed second mortgage agreement.
Check Your FL Assist $10,000 DPA Eligibility Today
How to Apply for the FL Assist Program
Applying for the FL Assist Program is a straightforward process handled through participating Florida Housing lenders.
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Check eligibility based on income and location
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Get pre-approved by a participating lender
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Complete a homebuyer education course (if required)
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Apply for FL Assist during your mortgage process
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Receive the funds at closing as part of your purchase
Make sure to begin this process early, as approval timelines can vary depending on your lender and documentation.
Check Your FL Assist $10,000 DPA Eligibility Today
FAQs About the Florida Assist Program
Below are the 10 most common questions homebuyers ask about the Florida Assist (FL Assist) Second Mortgage Program.
1. Is the FL Assist loan forgivable?
No. The FL Assist loan is not forgivable and must be fully repaid once a repayment event occurs.
2. Do I have to make monthly payments on FL Assist?
No. Monthly payments are not required while you live in the home and meet program conditions.
3. When is repayment due on the FL Assist loan?
Repayment is due if you sell, refinance, transfer the home, move out, or when the second mortgage reaches maturity.
4. What is the maximum assistance amount offered?
FL Assist provides up to $10,000 toward down payment and closing costs.
5. What loan types can be used with FL Assist?
The program works with FHA, VA, USDA, and Conventional loans offered through Florida Housing.
6. Can I use FL Assist if I’m not a first-time homebuyer?
Yes, if you're a qualified veteran or buying in a designated targeted area. Otherwise, first-time buyer status is required.
7. Is interest charged on the FL Assist loan?
No. The loan has a 0% interest rate and no accruing interest over time.
8. Who provides the FL Assist loan?
Only participating lenders approved by the Florida Housing Finance Corporation can offer the loan.
9. Is a homebuyer education course required?
Yes, most borrowers must complete an approved homebuyer education course before closing.
10. Can FL Assist be combined with other programs?
Yes. FL Assist is often layered with Florida Housing’s first mortgage loans and other DPA options for greater affordability.
Check Your FL Assist $10,000 DPA Eligibility Today
Bottom Line: Is Florida Assist Right for You?
The Florida Assist Second Mortgage Program offers a practical solution for eligible homebuyers struggling with upfront costs.
With up to $10,000 in assistance, 0% interest, and no monthly payments, it’s one of the most accessible down payment aid options available in the state.
If you're planning to stay in your home long-term, FL Assist can ease the financial burden of buying without increasing your monthly expenses.
Still exploring your options?
Check out these other Florida homebuyer resources:
Check Your FL Assist $10,000 DPA Eligibility Today
With over 50 years of mortgage industry experience, we are here to help you achieve the American dream of owning a home. We strive to provide the best education before, during, and after you buy a home. Our advice is based on experience with Phil Ganz and Team closing over One billion dollars and helping countless families.
About Author - Phil Ganz
Phil Ganz has over 20+ years of experience in the residential financing space. With over a billion dollars of funded loans, Phil helps homebuyers configure the perfect mortgage plan. Whether it's your first home, a complex multiple-property purchase, or anything in between, Phil has the experience to help you achieve your goals.
About Editor - Ryan Skerritt
Ryan Skerritt has over 10+ years of experience in the residential financing space. With over two hundred and fifty million of funded loan volume, Ryan has the skill set to help any homebuyer configure the perfect mortgage plan.
