If you're a senior homeowner living on a fixed income, a damaged or aging roof can feel like a ticking time bomb. Repairs aren’t just costly—they’re urgent. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to handle it all on your own.

Across the U.S.

multiple government-backed programs exist specifically to help seniors afford critical home repairs like roofing. These grants are designed to ensure safety, maintain property value, and help older Americans age in place without the stress of mounting home costs. Yet, many eligible homeowners have no idea they qualify.

Let’s break down 7 government grants and assistance programs that could help cover your roof repair or replacement—without draining your savings.

1. Section 504 Home Repair Program (aka Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants)

Run by the USDA, this program provides grants of up to $10,000 for low-income seniors aged 62+ to fix health and safety hazards—like leaky or unsafe roofs. The best part? You don’t have to repay the grant.

Who Qualifies? Seniors 62+, low income, living in rural areas.

How to Apply: Through your local USDA Rural Development office.

2. Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Weatherization

While LIHEAP is best known for helping with energy bills, its weatherization assistance often includes roof repairs—especially if a roof is leaking or poorly insulated.

Who Qualifies? Seniors with limited income; eligibility varies by state.

How to Apply: Through your state’s energy assistance office.

3. HUD’s Home Investment Partnerships Program (HOME)

Funded by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), this program gives local governments money to help low-income homeowners. Roof repairs fall under “eligible rehab activities.”

Who Qualifies? Seniors in participating cities or counties.

How to Apply: Contact your city or county’s housing agency.

4. State-Specific Senior Home Repair Grants

Many states offer senior-specific home repair grants. For example, California’s CalHome Program or New York’s Access to Home for Seniors both cover roof repairs.

Who Qualifies? Varies by state; typically 60+ with low income.

How to Apply: Visit your state housing department’s website.

5. Veterans Affairs (VA) Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) Grants

If you’re a veteran senior with a service-connected disability, the VA offers housing grants that can cover roof repairs to make your home safe and livable.

Who Qualifies? Eligible veterans; age isn’t a limit, but many recipients are seniors.

How to Apply: Through your local VA office or online via eBenefits.

6. Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program

Funded by HUD, CDBG money is distributed to local governments to support housing needs—including roof repairs for aging homeowners.

Who Qualifies? Low-to-moderate-income seniors; varies by city.

How to Apply: Contact your local community development office.

7. Non-Profit Partnerships: Rebuilding Together & Habitat for Humanity

While not government agencies, these nonprofits often receive federal grants to provide free repairs—especially for seniors in underserved areas.

Who Qualifies? Seniors in financial need.

How to Apply: Visit their websites to find local chapters.

Final Thoughts: You May Qualify and Not Even Know It

Most of these programs are underutilized—not because they don’t exist, but because people don’t know they’re eligible. If you're 60 or older and facing roof issues, the smartest thing you can do right now is explore your options. A few minutes of research could save you thousands of dollars.