HELPER Act of 2025

Summary

Creates a new FHA mortgage-insurance program that helps eligible first-responder, first-time homebuyers get FHA-backed mortgages with up to 100% financing and no down payment. The program bans monthly mortgage insurance premiums for these loans, allows an adjustable up-front insurance premium above 3%, sets worker eligibility and underwriting rules, requires housing counseling, authorizes limited funding for implementation through 2032, and sunsets new commitments five years after the program begins.

• Creates an FHA mortgage-insurance program offering up to 100% financing and no down payment for eligible first-responder first-time homebuyers.
• Bans monthly mortgage insurance premiums for these loans but allows an adjustable up-front premium above 3%.
• Sets borrower eligibility including 4 of last 5 years in qualifying service or an occupation-connected disability, required housing counseling, and intent to continue service for one year.
• Authorizes limited funding: $660,000 for FY2026 and $160,000 annually for FY2027–2032, available until expended.
• Sunsets the authority to enter new commitments five years after the program first becomes available.
• Requires FHA underwriting to meet actuarial and capital objectives, giving the Secretary discretion over up-front premium levels.
• Applies only to first-time homebuyers who meet the law’s first-responder definition and underwriting rules.
• Implementation will require HUD/FHA administrative action (rulemaking, counseling networks, and actuarial pricing).