My family and I are currently waiting for our loan to be processed so we can finally begin building our first home through the USDA Section 502 Direct Home Loan Program used in partnership with the Mutual Self-Help Housing program.

However, recent changes made by the United States Department of Agriculture have brought the processing of new loans to a grinding halt — even though Congress has already approved funding for this year.

USDA recently implemented several rule changes without advance notice that are now directly affecting how loans are approved. As a result:

Loan approvals have slowed down significantly
Only 6 loans have been closed this calendar year in my state
Some applicants who previously qualified may now be considered ineligible
Over 1,100 families nationwide are currently waiting for loan decisions 
Decreased funding of the USDA 502 Direct Loan program had already delayed loan processing prior to these recent administrative changes. The current funding level does not meet existing demand or housing need, further contributing to the growing backlog of applicants.

These changes are creating an unnecessary bottleneck for families like ours who rely on these programs to build or purchase homes. The delays do not only hinder our personal plans — they also impact local economies, builders, and suppliers who depend on housing development projects

Changes That Will Directly Affect Applicants

1. Lower Maximum Loan Amounts

USDA has reduced the maximum amount families are allowed to borrow.

This means:

Some homes that previously qualified under the program are now too expensive
Families who were eligible under prior limits may no longer qualify

2. Additional Approval Steps

USDA now requires extra levels of internal review for each loan.

This means:

Processing timelines may be significantly longer than in prior year

It’s time for USDA to recognize and address the unintended consequences of these changes. The slowing pace of loan processing could harm communities nationwide as more families face uncertainty and delays in their housing plans.

We urge USDA to review the current restrictions, identify the key issues causing these delays, and implement immediate measures to restore the efficiency of the loan processing timeline.

If USDA can successfully streamline this process, it will not only benefit individual families but also support economic growth by helping builders, suppliers, and local businesses continue their work.

Our homes are more than shelters — they represent dreams realized, community stability increased, and futures secured.

Please join us in urging USDA to act quickly and effectively.

Sign this petition to help restore the efficiency and reliability of the loan processing system that so many families depend on for their futures.

Together, we can ensure that every family’s dream of homeownership remains within reach.