If you’re trying to buy a home in California with down payment assistance, the first question is always the same: do you qualify based on income? CalHFA programs have county-specific income limits that change each year — here’s the 2026 breakdown and what it means for your loan.
What Are CalHFA Income Limits?
CalHFA (California Housing Finance Agency) sets maximum household income thresholds for each of its down payment assistance and first mortgage programs. These limits are based on Area Median Income (AMI) figures published annually by HUD and vary by county and household size.
The most important rule: your gross annual income must fall at or below the limit for the county where you’re buying. Income from all borrowers and co-borrowers on the loan is counted.
2026 CalHFA Income Limits by Program
MyHome Assistance Program
The MyHome program provides up to 3.5% of the purchase price or appraised value as a silent second loan for down payment and/or closing costs. Income limits apply at the county level. Example limits for 2026 (1–2 person household):
| County | 1–2 Person Household | 3+ Person Household |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | $180,000 | $207,000 |
| Marin | $230,000 | $264,500 |
| Orange | $192,000 | $220,800 |
| San Francisco | $230,000 | $264,500 |
| San Diego | $175,000 | $201,250 |
| Santa Clara | $230,000 | $264,500 |
| Sacramento | $155,000 | $178,250 |
Note: These figures reflect 2026 program guidelines. Always verify current limits at calhfa.ca.gov or with your loan officer.
CalHFA Dream For All 2026
The Dream For All Shared Appreciation Loan is CalHFA’s most powerful program — it provides 20% of the purchase price with no monthly payment. Income limits are stricter:
- First-time homebuyer requirement applies to all borrowers
- Must complete homebuyer education course
- Income limits vary by county — Bay Area counties range up to $230,000+ for larger households
- Vouchers are issued via lottery when funding opens — demand significantly exceeds supply
ZIP (Zero Interest Program)
ZIP provides 3% of the first mortgage amount as a deferred, zero-interest second loan. It can be paired with MyHome for maximum assistance. Income limits match MyHome thresholds by county.
How to Calculate If You Qualify
- Add up all borrower income — salary, self-employment, rental income, alimony, all sources
- Find your county limit — go to calhfa.ca.gov and look up your purchase county
- Match by household size — limits increase for 3+ person households
- Compare — if your gross annual income is below the limit, you’re eligible (income-wise)
Other CalHFA Eligibility Requirements
Income limits are just one piece. You also need to meet:
- First-time buyer status — no ownership interest in a principal residence in the past 3 years
- Credit score — minimum 660–680 depending on program and loan type
- Owner-occupancy — must live in the home as primary residence
- Purchase price limits — home price cannot exceed county-specific limits (typically $850K–$1.1M in Bay Area)
- Homebuyer education — 8-hour HUD-approved course required
What If You’re Over the Income Limit?
If your income is slightly above CalHFA limits, don’t give up. There are alternatives:
- GSFA Platinum Grant — no income limits in many California counties, provides 5–6% grant
- Local city/county programs — many Bay Area cities have their own down payment assistance
- Gift funds — family gifts can substitute for down payment with proper documentation
- Employer assistance programs — some tech companies and school districts offer home purchase benefits
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my spouse’s income count toward CalHFA limits?
Yes — any co-borrower on the loan must have their income counted, including a spouse.
What if I’m self-employed — how is income calculated?
Self-employed borrowers use the net income shown on the most recent 2 years of tax returns (averaged), not gross business revenue.
DiVita Home Finance specializes in CalHFA loans throughout California. We’ll run your numbers, identify which program fits, and lock in your rate before funding closes. Call us at (800) 239-1108 or apply online today.
