Police, firefighters, paramedics, EMTs, and full-time pre-K through 12 teachers could buy their first home with no down payment under a new FHA insurance program created by this bill. Borrowers would need at least four of the previous five years in their profession and would pay a one-time upfront premium (no monthly mortgage insurance). The bill authorizes $660,000 for fiscal year 2026 and $160,000 annually through 2032 to run the program. It's limited to first-time homebuyers and requires housing counseling. The program sunsets five years after launch unless renewed.
Congressional Summary
Homes for Every Local Protector, Educator, and Responder Act of 2025 or the HELPER Act of 2025This bill establishes a program administered by the Department of Housing and Urban Development to provide mortgage assistance to law enforcement officers, elementary and secondary school teachers, firefighters, or other first responders. Specifically, these individuals may be eligible for a first-time mortgage on a primary family residence with no down payment. Instead, the mortgage is subject to a one-time, up-front mortgage insurance premium.
Details
- Congress
- 119th
- Chamber
- Senate
- Status
- summarized
- Action
- Introduced in Senate
- Action Date
- 2025-03-12
- Date Added
- 2026-04-19