Eligibility notes
Program info letter (July 2023) describes a deferred loan with 5-year second lien released after 5 years of occupancy, first-time (no ownership in 3 years) requirement, HUD income limits by household size, and eligibility limited to unincorporated Dallas County plus participating cities (Balch Springs, Cedar Hill, Cockrell Hill, Coppell, Duncanville, Farmers Branch, Glenn Heights, Hutchins, Lancaster, Sachse, Seagoville, Wilmer) - City of Dallas not listed. FY2025 county performance report shows UPCAP activity. Confirm current terms with HLCC (214) 819-6060.
Where does Upfront Cost Assistance Program (UPCAP) apply?
This county-level program is available to buyers in Dallas County (parts of the county — see eligibility notes). Cities on our site where it applies:
- Down payment assistance in Cedar Hill
- Down payment assistance in Coppell
- Down payment assistance in Lancaster
- Down payment assistance in Duncanville
- Down payment assistance in Farmers Branch
- Down payment assistance in Sachse
- Down payment assistance in Balch Springs
- Down payment assistance in Seagoville
- Down payment assistance in Glenn Heights
| Detail | Program terms |
|---|---|
| Assistance | Up to $15,000 in down payment and/or closing cost assistance |
| Type | Forgivable loan |
| Minimum credit | Not published on the program page |
| First-time buyer | Required |
| Income limits | not stated |
How does Upfront Cost Assistance Program (UPCAP) work with an FHA loan?
Texas's 2026 FHA one-unit limits start at $541,287, which supports a price of about $560,000 with 3.5% down.
Where do I confirm current terms?
On the official page: https://www.dallascounty.org/departments/dchhs/human-services/home-loan.php. Programs can pause when funds run out, so confirm availability with a participating lender.
Frequently asked questions
Sources
- Dallas County Health and Human Services - Home Loan Counseling Center — Upfront Cost Assistance Program (UPCAP) (official page, verified October 25, 2026)
- HUD — 2026 FHA limits
Data last updated October 25, 2026.
Find a lender that offers Upfront Cost Assistance Program (UPCAP)
Answer a few quick questions and get matched with purchase mortgage lenders in your area. Free, and it won't affect your credit score.
Get My MatchesFigures on this page are estimates for educational purposes only and are not a loan offer or commitment to lend. Rates, loan limits, fees and assistance programs change frequently and vary by lender, location and borrower profile. Confirm current terms with a licensed loan officer.