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Home buyer help · Missouri

Buying a home in Missouri: the help you may qualify for.

Down payment assistance, property tax exemptions and veteran benefits in Missouri, gathered from official state sources and explained in plain English. Every program has its own rules, so check with the agency before you count on it.

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Last checked November 11, 2026Sources state agencies

Down payment and closing cost help

From the Missouri Housing Development Commission (MHDC).

  • First Place cash assistance Military and heroes

    4% of the mortgage

    A second loan forgiven after 10 years in the home. Credit score 640+. Qualified veterans don't need to be first-time buyers.

Who qualifies: Income and price limits, through an MHDC certified lender. Without the cash assistance you can get a lower rate.

Property tax exemptions and credits

Exemptions lower your home’s taxable value or your bill. Most aren’t automatic: you apply with your county assessor or the Department of Revenue. Missouri’s official exemptions information.

No exemption for every homeownerMissouri doesn’t have a statewide property tax exemption for every homeowner. Its benefits are for the groups below. Some cities and counties add their own, so ask your county assessor or the Department of Revenue.

For homeowners 65 and older

  • Property Tax Credit (circuit breaker)

    Up to $1,100 back for homeowners

    For homeowners 65 or older, 100% disabled, 100% disabled veterans, or qualifying surviving spouses 60 or older, with income under the state limit. Missouri doesn't have a general homestead exemption, and some counties now offer a senior tax freeze.

    How to apply: Form MO-PTC with the Department of Revenue. (Missouri Department of Revenue)

Want to see which ones fit you? Answer a few questions in the property tax exemptions checker.

If you serve or served

  • VA home loan: available in every state, often with no down payment and no monthly mortgage insurance. You’ll need a Certificate of Eligibility. See VA home loans.
  • First Place cash assistance: 4% of the mortgage. A second loan forgiven after 10 years in the home. Credit score 640+. Qualified veterans don't need to be first-time buyers.

Your next steps

  1. Work out a monthly cost you’re comfortable with in the home cost calculator. It also lists Missouri’s programs with the loans you may qualify for.
  2. Talk with a free or low-cost HUD-approved housing counselor. Find one near you.
  3. Ask each lender which of these programs they work with, and compare Loan Estimates from at least three.
  4. Follow the step-by-step home buyer’s guide from budget to keys.

Common questions

Does Missouri have down payment help for home buyers?

Yes. Programs from the Missouri Housing Development Commission (MHDC) include First Place cash assistance. Income and price limits, through an MHDC certified lender. Without the cash assistance you can get a lower rate. Funding and rules change often, so check with the agency or a participating lender.

Does Missouri have a homestead or property tax exemption for homeowners?

Missouri doesn't have a statewide exemption for every homeowner. Its property tax benefits are for groups such as seniors, veterans and people with disabilities. Ask your county assessor or the Department of Revenue about local programs.

Is there help for veterans buying a home in Missouri?

VA home loans are available in every state, often with no down payment. Missouri also has a program with benefits for military, veterans or other public servants: First Place cash assistance.

Sources: Missouri Housing Development Commission (MHDC) and Missouri’s property tax office, linked above. Last checked November 11, 2026. Programs, amounts, income limits and funding change often, sometimes every year. Know Before You Own doesn’t recommend lenders or take referral fees. This page is general education, not legal, tax or lending advice. See other states.