Indiana County First-Time Homebuyer: ACCESS Assistance for Buyers with Disabilities

ACCESS Loan: Assistance Plus Accessibility Modifications

ACCESS is unique among PHFA assistance programs because it serves two purposes simultaneously. It provides down payment and closing cost assistance just like other programs, but it also offers separate funding for accessibility modifications to make homes livable for buyers with disabilities.

This dual-purpose structure recognizes that buyers with disabilities often face both financial barriers to homeownership and the cost of making homes accessible. ACCESS addresses both challenges in one comprehensive program.

ACCESS Downpayment and Closing Cost Assistance

ACCESS provides up to $15,000 as a zero-interest second mortgage for down payment and closing costs. This assistance is structured as a loan you repay, but the terms are flexible and designed to fit your situation.

ACCESS Loan Terms

The ACCESS loan is a second mortgage with zero interest. Terms are flexible based on your individual circumstances and lender approval. You may have options for deferment, meaning the loan doesn't require payments during initial years, allowing you to build equity and stability in your home first.

Because terms are flexible, work with your PHFA lender and counselor to structure the loan to fit your budget. Your ability to make payments is the priority, and ACCESS is designed with that in mind.

Defining Disability for ACCESS Eligibility

ACCESS is available to first-time homebuyers who live with a disability or whose household members live with disabilities. The definition is broad and includes physical disabilities, sensory disabilities, cognitive disabilities, and mental health disabilities that substantially limit daily activities.

You do not need to have any specific diagnosis or disability type. If you or a household member have a disability that impacts housing needs or accessibility, you may qualify for ACCESS. Work with a PHFA counselor to discuss your specific situation confidentially.

Accessibility Modifications Funding

Beyond the $15,000 downpayment assistance, ACCESS provides separate funding for home modifications that make your property accessible. This includes ramps, grab bars, widened doorways, bathroom modifications, kitchen accessibility, and other changes needed for safe, independent living.

Modification funding is designed to cover reasonable and necessary adaptations. Work with your PHFA counselor and contractor to develop a modification plan and budget. Funding is available in addition to the $15,000 downpayment assistance.

Combining ACCESS with Primary Financing

ACCESS works with any PHFA primary mortgage or traditional lender. Most Indiana County buyers pair ACCESS with Keystone Home Loan (3% down) or HFA Preferred to layer assistance strategically.

For example, if you buy a $150,000 Indiana County home with Keystone Home Loan (3% down = $4,500) plus ACCESS ($15,000), your combined assistance reaches $19,500. This dramatically reduces your cash needed at closing.

ACCESS Eligibility Requirements

You must be a first-time homebuyer (or have not owned a home in the past three years). You or a household member must have a disability as defined by federal standards. Your household income cannot exceed PHFA limits. You must be approved for a primary mortgage from a participating lender.

Your credit score should be 660 or higher, though lower scores may be possible with counseling. Your debt-to-income ratio must not exceed lender guidelines. The property must meet federal standards and serve as your primary residence.

The Application Process for ACCESS

Complete homebuyer counseling, which is recommended for all buyers and required by most lenders. Submit your primary mortgage application with a participating lender. Request ACCESS assistance during your mortgage application. Provide documentation of disability (confidential, used only for eligibility verification). Work with PHFA to develop an accessibility modification plan if needed. Receive ACCESS approval and closing process. Close on your home and begin building your future.

Why ACCESS Matters for Indiana County Buyers with Disabilities

Homeownership can feel impossible when you face both down payment barriers and home accessibility needs. ACCESS recognizes these dual challenges and addresses them together. This integrated approach makes homeownership realistic for Indiana County families with disabilities.

The program also acknowledges that accessibility modifications cost real money. Separate funding for modifications ensures you don't have to choose between reducing down payment assistance or skipping necessary home modifications.

ACCESS vs. Other Assistance Programs

Program	Maximum	Interest	Accessibility Mods	Disability Required
ACCESS	$15,000 + mods	0%	Yes, separate funding	Yes
K-FIT	5% of purchase price	0%	No	No
HOMEstead	$10,000	0%	No	No
Keystone Advantage	$8,000	0%	No	No

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to disclose my disability to get ACCESS?

Yes, you must document your disability for ACCESS eligibility verification. However, this information is confidential and used only to confirm program eligibility. Your disability information is not shared beyond what is necessary for program administration. Many buyers feel empowered by accessing a program designed specifically to support their homeownership goals.

What counts as a disability under ACCESS?

Disabilities include physical impairments, sensory disabilities, cognitive disabilities, mental health conditions, chronic illnesses, and other conditions that substantially limit daily activities. The program uses a broad definition aligned with federal disability law. If you are unsure whether your situation qualifies, discuss it confidentially with a PHFA counselor.

Can I use the modification funding for renovations I want to do later?

Modification funding is designed for accessibility needs identified at purchase. If you want modifications later, they must still relate to disability accessibility. Work with your PHFA counselor to develop a realistic modification plan at the time of purchase, ensuring funding covers your current accessibility needs.

What if my household includes someone with a disability but I don't have one myself?

ACCESS is available if you or any household member lives with a disability. You do not need to be the person with the disability to qualify. If your spouse, child, parent, or other household member has a disability, your household may qualify for ACCESS assistance.

Are there income limits for ACCESS?

Yes, ACCESS has income limits based on household size and Area Median Income for Indiana County. These limits ensure the program serves low- to moderate-income households. Ask a PHFA counselor about current 2026 income limits for your household size.

Start Your Indiana County Homeownership Journey

ACCESS Assistance Loan removes both financial and accessibility barriers to homeownership for Indiana County buyers with disabilities. With up to $15,000 in zero-interest down payment assistance plus separate funding for accessibility modifications, homeownership becomes achievable.

Contact a PHFA-approved counselor or lender to explore ACCESS and discover how this program can help you build a home that works for your family.