Can you buy a home if you have DACA? You may have a path, even if another lender has said no. Best Option Mortgage offers the Elm Non-QM program, which accepts DACA borrowers. Approval still depends on your loan file. Non-QM is a loan type outside standard agency rules. It is not an FHA loan or a promise.
DACA home loans: What you need
DACA home loans are not one-size-fits-all. Elm accepts certain proof of DACA status, including an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) with code C33. Other approved work permit records may also be accepted.
Elm requires a valid Social Security number, U.S. credit, and at least two years living and working in the U.S. You will also need to meet the program's credit, income, asset and property rules. Having DACA does not mean you are approved, but it does not rule you out under this program.
DACA home loans: Plan your budget
When you compare DACA home loans, start with what you can afford each month. Budget for the loan payment, property taxes, home insurance and any HOA dues. Set aside money for closing costs, moving and repairs, too.
Elm has limits on how much you can borrow compared with the home's value. The rules can vary based on how you show your income. Ask your advisor to review the down payment and cash reserves needed for your file. Get a clear estimate of closing costs so you can plan for more than the down payment.
Self-employed? Some Elm options let eligible borrowers use bank statements instead of the usual income paperwork. Read our guide to mortgages for self-employed buyers to learn why a past loan denial may not be the end of your search.
Get ready before you shop
Gather your status documents, income records, bank statements and a list of debts. Ask about your credit, down payment and cash needed to close before making an offer. Avoid taking on new debt while your loan is being reviewed.
Not sure what lenders mean by DTI or closing costs? Our Mortgage Terms Made Simple guide explains the words you will hear as you get ready to buy.
FAQ: Can I buy a house with DACA and an EAD card with code C33?
Yes, you may qualify. Elm lists DACA home loans for eligible borrowers and accepts an EAD with code C33 as one form of proof. Your advisor must still check your income, credit, assets and the home against current guidelines.
FAQ: What documents do I need to apply for a DACA home loan?
Elm lists three proof options: an EAD with code C33, an I-797 approval for an I-765 with code C33, or an I-765 showing approval in its Action Block. Your advisor can help identify which record you have.
Can I get a DACA mortgage if I am self-employed?
Some Elm options allow income to be reviewed with bank statements. The program and documents must fit your application. Ask an advisor which option may fit.
How much down payment do I need to buy a home with DACA?
It depends on the loan and how your income is documented. Elm sets loan-to-value limits, so ask for a review of your down payment and cash needs before you shop.
Ready to see what may work? Talk with Best Option Mortgage about the next step. All loans are subject to approval. Program terms can change at any time.
Best Option Mortgage is a DBA of ML Mortgage Corp. ML Mortgage Corp. is a state-licensed mortgage lender, NMLS ID #362312, licensed by the CA Department of Financial Protection and Innovation under the Finance Lenders Law, License #60DBO69831. For other states, visit www.mlmortgage.net (http://www.mlmortgage.net/). To verify licenses, visit www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org (http://www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org/). All loans are subject to credit approval and acceptable collateral. Additional terms and conditions apply. Programs, rates, terms, and conditions may change without notice. Not all programs are available in all states. There is no guarantee that all borrowers will qualify. Restrictions may apply. This is not a commitment to lend. © 2026 ML Mortgage Corp. All rights reserved.