The Most Common Government Loan Programs

When you need to borrow money, the U.S. government can be an appealing source of funding. Government loans typically have borrower-friendly features—they’re relatively easy to qualify for and might have lower rates than you can find with private lenders. However, it can be a challenge to find out about the many different government loan programs in order to take advantage of them.

How Government Loans Work

In many cases, the government does not lend money directly. Instead, private lenders such as banks and finance companies provide funding, and the U.S. government guarantees the loan. Put another way, the government promises to repay your lender if you, the borrower, fail to do so. You as the borrower may also be required to pay a utilization fee.

Types of Government Loans

There are several types of loans available, and new programs occasionally come up in response to events like environmental disasters and other crises. The most common loans available with government assistance are:

• Student loans
• Housing loans, including disaster and home improvement loans
• Business loans, including farm and ranch loans.

Let's take a look at some of the most common options.

Education Loans

If you need help paying for school, federal student loans (under the Direct Loan program) are probably your best option. They are easy to qualify for, they have competitive rates, and they offer flexibility when you’re getting on your feet (and when you face financial hardships in life). For example, during periods of unemployment, you might be able to skip your loan payments temporarily. You can also reduce your required loan payment to make it affordable relative to your monthly income.

Common loan programs include:

• Stafford Loans: These are easy to qualify for, and you might receive interest subsidies.
• PLUS Loans: Parents can borrow substantial amounts, but that means parents will have to repay.

Private lenders might also offer borrower-friendly features, but they're far less generous than government loans. They often have variable rates, and they’re harder to qualify for. (You typically need good credit, a degree in a high-paying field, or a co-signer to help you get approved.)

Government Loans for Housing

You can debate whether or not owning a home is always the best financial choice, but the federal government encourages homeownership. There are numerous government programs designed to help Americans buy homes.

First-Time Homebuyer Programs

These programs help people get into homeownership. They may be available through federal or local government programs, and some nonprofit organizations assist homebuyers, as well. Features typically include down payment assistance or low interest rates. On the downside, borrowers are typically restricted to certain income brackets, and there might be limits on how much you can profit from an increase in your home’s value.

FHA Loans

FHA financing is among the most popular options for borrowers who want to make a small down payment. You can put down as little as 3.5%, and it’s possible to use gifts and concessions to cover closing costs. However, you have to pay an extra insurance premium. Over an extended period, that might not work out in your favor.

Other Programs for Financing a New Home

Several other less-popular loan programs are backed by federal agencies. For example, VA loans are available to service members and veterans, and USDA loans offer up to 100% financing for certain borrowers in rural areas.

Refinancing Programs

Whether you're still recovering from the mortgage crisis or fell behind on your house payments during the pandemic, you might be desperate to refinance but might find it difficult to do so. If you’re unable to refinance (because you’re underwater, for example), there are still several mortgage help programs available, including VA and USDA loan refinancing options.

Home Improvement and Repair

If you own a home that is in need of repair (or you’d like to buy one), the government is willing to help make your house and neighborhood a clean, safe place. FHA 203(k) loans provide funding for the purchase or rehabilitation of a home. After a disaster, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) provides funding for repairs to your primary residence and to replace certain belongings.

Green Projects

Local governments may also provide programs that help with energy-efficiency upgrades. PACE programs provide money for projects such as solar installations, sustainable landscaping, and more.

Business Loans

A rising tide lifts all boats: Small businesses create jobs for people in the community, and they create tax revenue. If you need help starting or growing your venture, evaluate government loan programs first. SBA loans should be your first choice, and they’re available through many local banks and credit unions.

Although the government helps you qualify by guaranteeing loans, you still need to put skin in the game. Be prepared to make a personal guarantee on most business loans you receive.

The SBA 7(a) small business loan is the most popular loan program, providing up to $5 million. Other loans are available for smaller enterprises. For example, the SBA promotes microloan programs to help small businesses and nonprofits expand.

Personal Loans

The federal government does not offer (or guarantee) personal unsecured loans. Loan programs tend to serve a specific purpose, such as funding your education, starting and growing a business, or promoting safe and well-maintained housing.

It’s harder to influence how borrowers spend money with a personal loan, so policies are less likely to encourage that type of debt. Your best options for a personal loan are to visit a local bank or credit union or try a reputable online lender or peer-to-peer lending service.