Author: Kentucky Mortgage Broker Offering FHA, VA, USDA, Conventional, and KHC Down Payment Assistance Home Loans

Kentucky USDA Eligibility Map 2026 | Zero-Down Rural Home Loans


Kentucky USDA Rural Housing Eligibility Map 2026 – Zero-Down Home Loan Guide

USDA Rural Development offers one of the best zero-down mortgage options available for Kentucky homebuyers in eligible rural and semi-rural areas.
This 2026 guide explains how the USDA eligibility map works, how to check a property address, which Kentucky counties are fully or partially eligible, and how to get pre-approved.

If you are looking for a no down payment home loan in Kentucky, the USDA Rural Housing program can be a great fit when the property location, income, and credit all meet the guidelines.

Check a Kentucky Property on the Official USDA Eligibility Map

Use the official USDA map below to check if a specific Kentucky address is located in an eligible area:


🔍 Check USDA Property Eligibility (Official USDA Map)

Opens the official USDA Rural Development eligibility map in a new tab.

How to Use the USDA Eligibility Map

  1. Click the button above to open the USDA eligibility map.
  2. Accept any disclaimer notices from USDA.
  3. Select the Single Family Housing Guaranteed program if asked.
  4. Type the full property address into the search box and hit Enter.
  5. The map will clearly mark the address as either Eligible or Ineligible.
  6. You can zoom in and out to view broader areas and county boundaries.

If you are unsure about the result, you can always screenshot or copy the address and I will double-check the eligibility for you.

USDA Income Limits for Kentucky in 2026

In addition to the property being in an eligible area, USDA loans also have household income limits. These limits are based on:

  • Number of people in the household
  • County where the property is located
  • Certain allowable deductions (childcare, dependents, etc.)

USDA updates these income limits periodically. Rather than relying on outdated numbers, I will calculate your current USDA income eligibility based on the latest guidelines and your full financial picture.

Need help? Call or text me at 502-905-3708 and I will run the USDA income calculation for you at no cost.

Which Kentucky Counties Are Eligible for USDA Loans in 2026?

Most counties in Kentucky remain highly favorable for USDA Rural Housing loans. However, some urban and high-density areas are excluded, and other counties are classified as partially eligible with only certain pockets qualifying.

Fully Ineligible Counties (No USDA Areas)

These counties currently have no USDA-eligible areas:

  • Jefferson County – Louisville Metro (entire county ineligible)
  • Fayette County – Lexington Metro (entire county ineligible)

Partially Eligible Counties – Northern Kentucky

These Northern Kentucky counties contain a mix of ineligible metro areas and eligible rural pockets:

  • Boone County – Partial
  • Kenton County – Partial
  • Campbell County – Partial

In these counties, dense suburban areas near the Cincinnati metro core are generally ineligible, while more outlying rural and semi-rural zones may still qualify. Each address must be checked on the USDA map.

Hardin County – Partial USDA Eligibility (Corrected)

Hardin County includes notable non-eligible areas related to the military base and adjoining communities. The general pattern is:

  • Non-Eligible Areas: Radcliff, Vine Grove, and the Fort Knox area
  • Typically Eligible Areas: Rural portions of Hardin County outside of Radcliff, Vine Grove, and Fort Knox (such as many areas around Rineyville, Cecilia, Glendale, Sonora, and rural Elizabethtown outskirts)

If you are looking near Fort Knox or in the Radcliff / Vine Grove area, we will need to be especially careful to verify each address on the USDA map.

Bullitt County – Partial USDA Eligibility (Corrected)

Bullitt County is largely USDA-friendly, but certain more suburbanized pockets are not eligible. The general pattern is:

  • Non-Eligible Areas: Zoneton, Hillview, Maryville, Pioneer Village, and Brooks
  • Generally Eligible: Most of the remaining rural and semi-rural areas in Bullitt County outside the communities listed above

If you are shopping in Bullitt County, I can help you focus your home search in USDA-approved zones and avoid properties that will not qualify.

Other Partially Eligible Kentucky Counties

The following counties also tend to have a mix of eligible rural areas and ineligible city cores or higher-density zones:

  • Warren County – Bowling Green area (core city typically ineligible, rural edges more likely eligible)
  • Madison County – Richmond area (city core ineligible, rural outskirts potentially eligible)
  • McCracken County – Paducah area (urban core ineligible, outlying areas may qualify)
  • Christian County – Hopkinsville and surrounding rural areas (partial eligibility)
  • Boyd County – Ashland area (partial eligibility)
  • Scott County – Georgetown area (partial eligibility)
  • Henderson County – partial eligibility
  • Franklin County – Frankfort area (partial eligibility)
  • Daviess County – Owensboro area (partial eligibility)

In each of these counties, the urban core is usually ineligible while many rural and semi-rural zones just outside the main city limits remain eligible. Always confirm with the USDA map or let me check for you.

Fully Eligible Kentucky Counties

Many of Kentucky’s more rural counties remain fully USDA-eligible with no excluded areas.
If you are looking in small towns or in more remote parts of the state, you often have a strong chance of qualifying for USDA location-wise.

If you share which county or town you are interested in, I can quickly tell you if the whole county is eligible or if there are ineligible pockets to avoid.

Key USDA Loan Features for Kentucky Homebuyers

  • 100% financing – no down payment required
  • 30-year fixed-rate mortgage
  • Flexible credit guidelines compared to some conventional loans
  • Reduced monthly mortgage insurance compared to FHA in many cases
  • Seller can help pay closing costs within program rules
  • Available to owner-occupants buying a primary residence

If you are a Kentucky first-time homebuyer (or even a repeat buyer) looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs, USDA should be on your list of options to review.

USDA vs. FHA vs. VA vs. Conventional in Kentucky

USDA is just one of several strong mortgage options in Kentucky. In many cases, I will compare USDA with:

The goal is to find the combination of payment, cash-to-close, and long-term benefits that best fits your situation, not just the first program that approves you.

Get a Free USDA Eligibility Review for Your Kentucky Home Purchase

If you are thinking about using a USDA loan to buy a home in Kentucky, I can help you with:

  • Checking property eligibility by address
  • Reviewing your income vs. USDA limits
  • Pulling and reviewing your credit profile
  • Comparing USDA with FHA, VA, Conventional and KHC options
  • Providing a clear, written pre-approval and payment breakdown

Call or Text: 502-905-3708
Email: joel@kentuckylender.com

Whether you are just starting to research or you are ready to write an offer, I am happy to walk you through the USDA process step-by-step for any area in Kentucky.


NMLS #57916 | Company NMLS #1738461
Equal Housing Lender
This is not a commitment to lend. All loans are subject to credit approval and program guidelines. USDA availability and eligibility are subject to change; always verify current maps and income limits.

Kentucky Mortgage Broker Offering FHA, VA, USDA, Conventional, and KHC Down Payment Assistance Home Loans's avatarLouisville Kentucky Mortgage Loans

How to determine if property is in an eligible USDA area in Kentucky 

Click on link below to see if the address is in a Kentucky USDA Property Eligibility

👇👇👇👇

Kentucky Rural Housing USDA Loans Map link

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How to Get a USDA Rural Housing Loan in Kentucky (After Bankruptcy or Foreclosure)


By Joel Lobb, Kentucky Mortgage Loan Officer | NMLS ID: 57916

Your Second Chance at Homeownership in the Bluegrass State

Dreaming of homeownership in Kentucky but think a past bankruptcy or foreclosure has you permanently sidelined? Think again! USDA Rural Housing loans offer a powerful pathway to homeownership, even after financial setbacks. With over 20 years of helping Kentucky families achieve their homeownership dreams, I’ve guided hundreds of clients through this exact situation.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover how to qualify for a USDA loan after bankruptcy, understand the credit requirements, navigate income limits, and find your perfect Kentucky home in an eligible rural area.

Table of Contents

  1. Why USDA Loans Are Perfect for Kentucky Homebuyers
  2. Bankruptcy & Foreclosure Requirements
  3. Credit Score Essentials
  4. Understanding Income Limits in Kentucky
  5. The New 29% DTI Rule & Property Eligibility
  6. Key Features & Fees of USDA Loans
  7. The Application Process & Required Documents
  8. Pros & Cons of USDA Loans
  9. How to Get Started Today

Why USDA Loans Are Perfect for Kentucky Homebuyers {#why-usda-loans}

USDA Rural Housing loans aren’t just for farmers! These government-backed mortgages are designed to promote homeownership in rural America, and 97% of Kentucky qualifies as “rural” under USDA guidelines.

Key Benefits for Kentucky Residents:

✅ Zero Down Payment Required – 100% financing available ✅ No Monthly PMI – Unlike FHA loans ✅ Lower Interest Rates – Competitive rates backed by the federal government ✅ Flexible Credit Requirements – Options for borrowers rebuilding credit ✅ Forgiving After Financial Hardship – Shorter waiting periods than conventional loans ✅ Kentucky-Wide Availability – Most areas outside Louisville and Lexington qualify

Important Update: New affordability rules take effect November 4, 2025, making it crucial to apply sooner rather than later to maximize your buying power.

Bankruptcy & Foreclosure Requirements {#bankruptcy-requirements}

One of the most common questions I hear is: “Can I still get a USDA loan after bankruptcy?” The answer is YES – but timing matters.

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Requirements

Standard Waiting Period: 3 years from discharge date

Reduced Waiting Period: 2 years with extenuating circumstances

What counts as “extenuating circumstances”?

  • Job loss beyond your control
  • Serious illness or medical emergency
  • Death of a primary wage earner
  • Divorce resulting in loss of household income
  • Military deployment affecting finances

Important Note: The waiting period begins from the discharge date, not the filing date. Make sure you have your bankruptcy discharge paperwork ready.

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Requirements

Waiting Period: 12 months of consistent, on-time, court-approved payments

Key Requirements:

  • Must have court trustee’s written approval to incur new debt
  • All 12 months of payments must be verified and on-time
  • Must demonstrate improved financial management
  • Cannot have any late payments during the 12-month period

Pro Tip: Start preparing your USDA loan application around month 10 of your Chapter 13 payments so you’re ready to move forward immediately after meeting the 12-month requirement.

Foreclosure Requirements

USDA Waiting Period After Foreclosure: 3 years from completion date

Can Be Reduced to 2 Years If:

  • The foreclosure resulted from documented extenuating circumstances
  • You’ve re-established good credit since the foreclosure
  • You can demonstrate the circumstances that caused the foreclosure are unlikely to recur

Short Sales and Deed-in-Lieu

Waiting Period: Generally 3 years, similar to foreclosure

Exception: May be reduced with extenuating circumstances and strong compensating factors

Credit Score Essentials {#credit-score}

Minimum Credit Score: 620 (For Most Lenders)

While the USDA doesn’t set an official minimum credit score, most Kentucky lenders require a FICO score of at least 620 to qualify for automated underwriting approval.

What If Your Score Is Below 620?

Don’t give up! You may still qualify through manual underwriting if you can demonstrate:

Strong Compensating Factors:

  • 12+ months of on-time rent payments (documented)
  • Stable employment history (2+ years same employer)
  • Low debt-to-income ratio (under 29% PITI)
  • Cash reserves (3-6 months of housing payments)
  • Previous successful homeownership
  • Significant down payment (even though USDA allows 0% down)

Rebuilding Your Credit for USDA Approval

After Bankruptcy or Foreclosure, Focus On:

  1. Payment History (35% of score)
    • Pay ALL bills on time for at least 12 months
    • Set up automatic payments to avoid missed due dates
    • Even small bills matter (utilities, phone, etc.)
  2. Credit Utilization (30% of score)
    • Keep credit card balances below 30% of limits
    • Pay down existing debt aggressively
    • Don’t close old accounts (hurts credit age)
  3. New Credit (15% of score)
    • Consider a secured credit card to rebuild
    • Become an authorized user on someone’s card
    • Avoid multiple credit applications
  4. Credit Mix (10% of score)
    • Maintain different types of credit (installment + revolving)
    • Car loans, credit cards, and personal loans help

Timeline for Credit Recovery:

  • 6 months: Begin seeing improvement with on-time payments
  • 12 months: Significant score increases possible
  • 24 months: Approaching pre-bankruptcy score levels

Understanding Income Limits in Kentucky {#income-limits}

USDA loans have income limits to ensure they benefit moderate-income families. Your total household income must not exceed 115% of the area median income (AMI).

2025 Kentucky USDA Income Limits

Statewide Standard Limits (Most Counties):

  • Household of 1-4 people: $119,850
  • Household of 5-8 people: $158,250

Note: Some high-cost Kentucky counties may have higher limits. Contact me for specific county information.

What Income Counts?

INCLUDED in Household Income:

  • Gross wages and salaries (before taxes)
  • Self-employment income
  • Social Security benefits (non-elderly/disabled)
  • Pension and retirement income
  • Alimony and child support received
  • Investment and rental income
  • Income from ALL household members age 18+

EXCLUDED from Household Income:

  • Income from elderly household members (62+)
  • Income from disabled household members
  • Income from full-time students under 18
  • Foster care payments
  • Temporary/non-recurring income
  • Income from minors under 18

Kentucky County-Specific Examples

Jefferson County (Louisville Metro): Mostly ineligible due to population, but surrounding counties qualify Fayette County (Lexington): Core city ineligible, but outer areas may qualify Warren County (Bowling Green): Many eligible areas with standard income limits McCracken County (Paducah): Extensive eligible areas Pike County (Eastern Kentucky): Nearly 100% eligible

Important: Income limits are updated annually. Always verify current limits for your specific Kentucky county.

The New 29% DTI Rule & Property Eligibility {#dti-rule}

Critical Update: New USDA Affordability Standards

Effective November 4, 2025, USDA is implementing stricter debt-to-income ratio requirements:

New Standard PITI Ratio: Maximum 29% of gross monthly income

What This Means:

  • With the same income, you may qualify for less house after November 4, 2025
  • Current applicants should secure Conditional Commitment BEFORE the deadline
  • Strong-credit borrowers (680+) can still qualify up to 32% with ratio waiver

Exception: The 32% Ratio Waiver

You May Qualify for Up to 32% PITI If:

  • All borrowers have credit scores of 680 or higher
  • You demonstrate approved compensating factors:
    • Significant cash reserves (6+ months)
    • Stable employment history
    • Low overall debt-to-income ratio
    • Previous successful homeownership
    • Minimal monthly debts outside housing payment

Property Eligibility: Is Your Dream Home in a USDA Zone?

USDA Definition of “Rural”: Communities with populations of 35,000 or less

Kentucky Coverage: Approximately 97% of the state qualifies!

How to Check Property Eligibility

  1. Visit: USDA Property Eligibility Website
  2. Enter: The property address or county
  3. Look for: “Eligible” status confirmation
  4. Contact me: I can verify eligibility instantly for any Kentucky property

Kentucky Areas That Typically Qualify

✅ Eastern Kentucky: Nearly 100% eligible (Pikeville, Prestonsburg, Hazard, Morehead) ✅ Western Kentucky: Extensive coverage (Paducah, Mayfield, Murray, Hopkinsville) ✅ Central Kentucky: Rural areas outside Lexington core ✅ Northern Kentucky: Towns outside Covington/Florence metro ✅ Southern Kentucky: Most of the region (Somerset, Corbin, Middlesboro)

Kentucky Areas That Typically DON’T Qualify

❌ Louisville Metro: Core city and dense suburbs ❌ Lexington: Central urban areas ❌ Northern Kentucky: Covington, Florence urban core ❌ Bowling Green: Downtown and dense suburbs

Pro Tip: Many desirable suburban areas within 20-30 minutes of major cities still qualify! Don’t assume your preferred location is ineligible without checking.

Key Features & Fees of USDA Loans {#features-fees}

Loan Features

Down Payment: 0% – 100% financing available Loan Terms: 30-year fixed rate (most common) Loan Limits: No maximum loan amount (subject to income and appraisal) Interest Rates: Competitive, government-backed rates Property Types: Single-family homes, townhomes, condos (USDA-approved)

USDA Loan Fees

1. Upfront Guarantee Fee: 1% of loan amount

  • Can be rolled into the loan (financed)
  • Example: $200,000 loan = $2,000 upfront fee
  • Paid at closing, not out-of-pocket

2. Annual Fee: 0.35% of remaining loan balance

  • Divided into 12 monthly payments
  • Included in your monthly mortgage payment
  • Example: $200,000 loan = $58/month (first year)
  • Decreases as loan balance decreases

Cost Comparison Example

$200,000 Kentucky Home Purchase:

Loan TypeDown PaymentUpfront CostMonthly PMI/FeeTotal 1st Year CostUSDA$0$2,000 (financed)$58$696FHA$7,000 (3.5%)$3,500$145$5,240Conventional$10,000 (5%)$0$150$11,800

USDA wins for low upfront costs and competitive monthly payments!

The Application Process & Required Documents {#application-process}

Step-by-Step: Getting Your USDA Loan Approved in Kentucky

Step 1: Check Property Eligibility

Verify your desired area qualifies using the USDA property map or contact me for instant verification.

Step 2: Verify Income Limits

Confirm your household income falls within Kentucky county limits for your household size.

Step 3: Get Pre-Approved

Work with a Kentucky USDA lender (like me!) to get pre-approved and understand your budget.

Step 4: Gather Required Documents

Personal Identification:

  • Government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport)

Income Documentation:

  • Last 2 years complete tax returns (all pages, schedules, W-2s, 1099s)
  • Last 30 days of paystubs (all borrowers)
  • 2-year employment history (addresses, phone numbers)

Asset Documentation:

  • Last 2 months bank statements (all pages, all accounts)
  • 401(k) and retirement account statements (most recent quarter)
  • Documentation of any other assets (investments, stocks, bonds)

Credit & Housing History:

  • 12 months canceled rent checks or money order receipts
  • Landlord contact information
  • Bankruptcy discharge papers (if applicable)
  • Foreclosure documents (if applicable)

Additional Documents for Self-Employed:

  • Last 2 years business tax returns (1120, 1120S, or 1065)
  • Year-to-date profit & loss statement
  • Business bank statements

Step 5: Submit Application

Complete the full USDA loan application with your lender and submit all documentation.

Step 6: Processing & Underwriting

  • Lender reviews your file
  • Orders home appraisal
  • Verifies employment and income
  • Confirms credit meets guidelines
  • Submits to USDA for final approval

Step 7: USDA Conditional Commitment

USDA issues Conditional Commitment approving your loan (this is the critical document for locking in current guidelines before November 4, 2025!).

Step 8: Clear Conditions & Close

  • Satisfy any remaining conditions
  • Final walk-through of property
  • Sign closing documents
  • Receive keys to your new Kentucky home!

Typical Timeline

Pre-Approval: 1-2 days (same-day available) Full Application to Closing: 30-45 days average With Bankruptcy/Foreclosure: May need additional documentation, add 5-10 days

Pros & Cons of USDA Loans {#pros-cons}

Advantages of USDA Loans in Kentucky

✅ No Down Payment Required – 100% financing means you can buy now ✅ Lower Monthly Costs – No PMI like conventional loans under 20% down ✅ Competitive Interest Rates – Government-backed programs offer great rates ✅ Flexible Credit Standards – Options for credit scores below 680 ✅ Forgiving After Financial Hardship – Shorter waiting periods than conventional ✅ 97% of Kentucky Qualifies – Extensive rural coverage throughout the state ✅ Income Limits Are Generous – Most moderate-income families qualify ✅ Allows Seller Concessions – Sellers can pay up to 6% of closing costs

Disadvantages to Consider

❌ Geographic Restrictions – Must buy in USDA-eligible rural area ❌ Income Limits Apply – High-income earners may not qualify ❌ Upfront and Annual Fees – 1% upfront + 0.35% annual (but still competitive) ❌ Longer Processing Times – Additional USDA approval step adds time ❌ Property Standards – Home must meet USDA minimum standards ❌ Occupancy Requirement – Must be primary residence (no investment properties) ❌ New Rules Coming November 2025 – Tighter DTI requirements ahead

Is a USDA Loan Right for You?

USDA loans are PERFECT if you:

  • Want to buy in rural Kentucky with little or no down payment
  • Have moderate income within county limits
  • Have credit score of 620+ (or strong compensating factors)
  • Are buying your primary residence
  • Have waited required time after bankruptcy/foreclosure
  • Want competitive rates and low monthly payments

Consider other options if you:

  • Want to buy in Louisville or Lexington city centers
  • Exceed income limits for your county
  • Are buying investment property or second home
  • Have very low credit score with no compensating factors
  • Need to close extremely quickly (under 30 days)

How to Get Started Today {#get-started}

Your Next Steps to Kentucky Homeownership

1. Check Your Property Eligibility Use the USDA map or contact me to verify your desired area qualifies.

2. Review Your Credit Report Get a free copy at AnnualCreditReport.com and check for errors. If you’ve had bankruptcy/foreclosure, confirm you’ve met waiting periods.

3. Calculate Your Income Add up ALL household income (except elderly/disabled) and compare to Kentucky county limits.

4. Contact a Kentucky USDA Specialist Work with an experienced local lender who understands Kentucky’s market and USDA guidelines.

5. Get Pre-Approved BEFORE November 4, 2025 Lock in current guidelines and maximize your buying power!

Why Work With Joel Lobb for Your Kentucky USDA Loan?

✅ 20+ Years Kentucky Mortgage Experience ✅ 1,300+ Kentucky Families Helped ✅ USDA Loan Specialist – I know the program inside and out ✅ Bankruptcy/Foreclosure Expertise – I’ve helped hundreds rebuild ✅ Same-Day Pre-Approvals – Fast service to meet your timeline ✅ Local Kentucky Knowledge – I understand every county’s unique situation ✅ Free Consultation – No obligation to discuss your options

Special Resources for Kentucky Homebuyers

  • Down Payment Assistance: KHC programs still available
  • First-Time Buyer Education: Free resources and guidance
  • Credit Rebuilding Strategies: Personalized plans after bankruptcy
  • Property Search Assistance: I’ll help verify USDA eligibility
  • Multiple Loan Options: FHA, VA, conventional, and KHC programs too

Important Disclaimer

This article provides general information about USDA Rural Housing loans in Kentucky. Individual circumstances vary, and this should not be considered legal or financial advice. USDA guidelines are subject to change, and all information is current as of October 2025.

This website and its content are not endorsed by the USDA, FHA, VA, or any government agency. It is an independent platform created to educate and assist Kentucky homebuyers.

Bankruptcy and foreclosure situations require individual assessment. Always consult with a qualified mortgage professional and, if needed, legal counsel for guidance specific to your situation.

Contact Joel Lobb – Kentucky Mortgage Loan Officer

Ready to explore your USDA loan options after bankruptcy or foreclosure?

📧 Email: kentuckyloan@gmail.com 📞 Call/Text: 502-905-3708

Licensed Kentucky Mortgage Professional

Visit: www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org

Related Kentucky Mortgage Resources

Last Updated: October 2025 Remember: New USDA guidelines take effect November 4, 2025. Apply now to lock in current standards!

Kentucky USDA Rural Development Eligibility Map Tool


🏠 USDA Rural Development Eligibility Map Tool

Check if your Kentucky property qualifies for USDA rural housing programs

🗺️ How to Check USDA Eligibility

Use the interactive map below to determine if your property is eligible for USDA Rural Development programs. Simply enter your address in the search box within the map to see the eligibility status for your location.

✅ Eligible Areas

Rural areas and towns with populations under 35,000 are typically eligible for USDA programs including home loans, grants, and business development assistance.

❌ Ineligible Areas

Urban areas and cities with populations over 35,000 are generally not eligible. These areas are shown in different colors on the map.

USDA Eligibility Map

🔗 Interactive Map

Use the “Find Your Address” search box in the map below to locate your property and determine USDA eligibility. Green areas indicate eligible locations, while gray areas are typically ineligible.

👇👇👇 Click link below

https://rdgdwescegovusdagov.global.ssl.fastly.net/eligibilitymaps/index.jsp?app=SFHMFS

📍 How to Use the Map

1. Click on the “Find Your Address” search box in the map above
2. Enter your complete address (street, city, state, ZIP)
3. Press Enter or click the search button
4. The map will show your location and indicate eligibility status

🏛️ USDA Rural Development Programs

If your property is in an eligible area, you may qualify for various USDA Rural Development programs:

  • Single Family Housing: Direct and guaranteed loans for homebuyers with low to moderate incomes
  • Home Repair Grants: Financial assistance for low-income homeowners to make essential repairs
  • Business Programs: Loans and grants to support rural business development and job creation
  • Community Facilities: Funding for essential community services like healthcare and education

🤝 Need Help with USDA Loans in Kentucky?

As a Kentucky mortgage specialist with over 20 years of experience, I can help you navigate USDA rural housing loans and determine if you qualify. I’ve assisted over 1,300 Kentucky families with their homebuying journey, including USDA loans with zero down payment options.

Contact Joel Lobb – Kentucky Mortgage Expert:

📧 Email: kentuckyloan@gmail.com
📞 Call/Text: 502-905-3708📧 Send Email📞 Call Now🔗 Find Local USDA Office

This tool provides access to the official USDA Rural Development eligibility map. For the most current information, visit www.rd.usda.gov

NMLS ID: 57916 | Equal Housing Lender | Kentucky Licensed Mortgage Loan Officer

USDA Eligibility Map


🏠

USDA Rural Development

Eligibility Map Tool

🗺️ How to Check USDA Eligibility

Use the interactive map below to determine if your property is eligible for USDA Rural Development programs. Simply enter your address in the search box within the map to see the eligibility status for your location.

✅ Eligible Areas

Rural areas and towns with populations under 35,000 are typically eligible for USDA programs including home loans, grants, and business development assistance.

❌ Ineligible Areas

Urban areas and cities with populations over 35,000 are generally not eligible. These areas are shown in different colors on the map.

USDA Eligibility Map

🔗 Interactive Map

Use the “Find Your Address” search box in the map below to locate your property and determine USDA eligibility. Green areas indicate eligible locations, while gray areas are typically ineligible.

https://rdgdwescegovusdagov.global.ssl.fastly.net/eligibilitymaps/index.jsp?app=SFHMFS

Eligible Areas

Ineligible Areas

📍 How to Use the Map

1. Click on the “Find Your Address” search box in the map above
2. Enter your complete address (street, city, state, ZIP)
3. Press Enter or click the search button
4. The map will show your location and indicate eligibility status

🏛️ USDA Rural Development Programs

If your property is in an eligible area, you may qualify for various USDA Rural Development programs:

  • Single Family Housing: Direct and guaranteed loans for homebuyers with low to moderate incomes
  • Home Repair Grants: Financial assistance for low-income homeowners to make essential repairs
  • Business Programs: Loans and grants to support rural business development and job creation
  • Community Facilities: Funding for essential community services like healthcare and education

❓ Need Help?

If you need assistance determining eligibility or want to learn more about USDA Rural Development programs, contact your local USDA Rural Development office or visit the official website.

🔗 Find Local Office

This tool provides access to the official USDA Rural Development eligibility map. For the most current information, visit www.rd.usda.gov

Breaking: New USDA Loan Rules Could Limit Your Home Buying Power in Kentucky


By Joel Lobb, Kentucky Mortgage Loan Officer | NMLS ID: 57916

If you’re planning to buy your first home in Kentucky with a USDA loan, big changes are coming that could affect your buying power. Starting November 4, 2025, the USDA Single Family Housing Guaranteed Loan Program (SFHGLP) will tighten its affordability standards.

As a Kentucky mortgage loan officer who has helped more than 1,300 families become homeowners, I want to break down what this means, who it impacts, and how you can prepare.

What’s Changing with USDA Loans in 2025?

The USDA is updating its affordability guidelines by setting the maximum PITI ratio at 29%.

What’s PITI? It stands for Principal, Interest, Taxes, and Insurance—your total monthly housing payment compared to your gross monthly income.

Here’s the key difference:

  • Before November 4, 2025 – USDA allowed more flexible debt-to-income ratios.
  • After November 4, 2025 – Borrowers will be capped at 29% of gross monthly income for their housing payment.

Translation for Kentucky homebuyers: On the same income, you may qualify for a smaller loan amount than you would under current rules.

Exceptions: How Strong Borrowers Can Still Qualify Above 29%

The 29% cap isn’t a hard stop for everyone. If you have strong credit and compensating factors, you may still qualify for a higher PITI ratio.

Two Main Pathways:

1. Automated Approval (GUS Accept)
The USDA’s automated underwriting system (GUS) looks at your entire financial picture. If it issues an “Accept,” higher PITI ratios may still be allowed.

2. Ratio Waiver (Up to 32%)
You may qualify for a waiver allowing up to a 32% PITI ratio if:

  • All borrowers have credit scores of 680 or higher
  • Your application shows approved compensating factors, such as:

This gives responsible Kentucky first-time homebuyers with solid credit extra flexibility—even under the new rule.

Why November 4, 2025, Is a Critical Deadline

The implementation date is firm, and here’s how it works:

  • Loans with a Conditional Commitment before November 4, 2025 will follow current guidelines.
  • Loans without a Conditional Commitment by November 4, 2025 must meet the new 29% PITI rule.
  • Important caveat: Even if you had a Commitment before the deadline, if your file is released or resubmitted after November 4, the new guidelines apply.

f you’re planning to use a USDA loan in Kentucky, timing matters.

What This Means for Kentucky First-Time Homebuyers

For Standard Borrowers:

  • Expect to qualify for less house after November 4, 2025
  • Consider accelerating your home search timeline
  • Focus on credit score improvement to boost eligibility

For Strong-Credit Borrowers (680+ scores):

  • You may still qualify up to 32% PITI with a waiver
  • Strong credit management gives you more options
  • Use this as leverage to maintain your buying power

For All Kentucky Homebuyers:

Kentucky-Specific Considerations

  • Kentucky Housing Corporation (KHC): Down payment assistance remains available to first-time homebuyers. This can help offset stricter USDA guidelines.
  • Rural Housing Benefits: USDA loans are still a top option for rural Kentucky families, offering low rates and zero down payment. Use the USDA Property Eligibility Map or my Kentucky USDA property map guide to check if your dream home qualifies.
  • Local Market Knowledge: From Louisville suburbs to Eastern Kentucky, each market has unique opportunities that an experienced local lender can help you navigate.

Explore Other Loan Options in Kentucky

While USDA loans are powerful, they’re not your only choice. Other strong programs include:

The mortgage landscape is tightening, but proactive planning puts you in control. Whether you’re a first-time buyer in Kentucky or looking to upgrade, now is the time to strategize.

📞 Contact Joel Lobb, Kentucky Mortgage Loan Officer

I offer free mortgage consultations with same-day approvals to help Kentucky families make the most of these changing guidelines. Let’s build a plan that works for you.

About the Author

Joel Lobb is a Kentucky Mortgage Loan Officer specializing in first-time homebuyer programs, including FHA, VA, USDA, and KHC loans. With over 20 years of experience, Joel has helped more than 1,300 Kentucky families achieve homeownership.
NMLS Personal ID: 57916 | Company NMLS ID: 1738461

Contact

Email: kentuckyloan@gmail.com
Call/Text: (502) 905-3708
Website: www.mylouisvillekentuckymortgage.com

EVO Mortgage • 911 Barret Ave., Louisville, KY 40204

Joel Lobb • Senior Loan Officer • Kentucky Mortgage Loan Expert

EVO Mortgage • Company NMLS #1738461 • Personal NMLS #57916

Equal Housing Lender

Disclosures: Program terms, eligibility, and pricing subject to change without notice. Not a commitment to lend. All loans subject to credit approval, acceptable collateral, and underwriting conditions. Geographic, income, and property restrictions may apply (including KHC/USDA). This content is for informational purposes only and not legal, financial, or tax advice. Verify current guidelines with your loan officer.