Forces Help to Buy Calculator | Estimate Your Advance
Trying to work out whether Forces Help to Buy could cover your deposit—and what it may take from your pay each month?
Your figures
Make this estimate more accurate
How to apply
Estimate amount
Use this calculator to find your estimated advance.
Check conditions
Verify basic Service, medical, and time rules.
Speak to lender
Inform your mortgage advisor and solicitor early.
Apply on JPA
Submit your application at least 6 weeks prior.
Receive & repay
Receive funds and start monthly pay deductions.
Check the main eligibility rules
This is a preliminary check, not an approval decision. Exceptions can exist for some medical or personal circumstances.
If you answered "No" or "Not sure" to any of these, you may not meet the standard criteria, although an exception could apply. Please check the latest JSP 464 or consult Unit HR.
Forces Help to Buy examples
| Salary | Salary-based maximum | Standard monthly repayment |
|---|---|---|
| £20,000 | £10,000 | £83.33 |
| £30,000 | £15,000 | £125.00 |
| £40,000 | £20,000 | £166.67 |
| £50,000 | £25,000 | £208.33 |
| £60,000 | £25,000 (Capped) | £208.33 |
Frequently asked questions
How much can I receive through Forces Help to Buy?
You can normally borrow up to 50% of your annual eligible pay, capped at a maximum of £25,000. However, the final approved amount may be lower if your property purchase does not require the full maximum amount.
Which parts of my pay count?
Your eligible pay includes your basic pay and any eligible Recruitment and Retention Pay (RRP). It does not include allowances.
Who can normally apply?
Most eligible UK Regular Service personnel must have completed 12 months from enlistment and Phase 1 training, have more than six months left to serve, and meet medical and disciplinary requirements. Reservists and MPGS are not normally eligible.
How is the monthly repayment calculated?
The advance is normally recovered at a rate of 10% of the original amount per year, spread over ten years (120 months) through equal monthly deductions from your pay.
What happens if I have fewer than ten years left to serve?
If you have at least 10 years and 6 months left to serve, repayment may start up to six months after payment. When fewer than 10 years and 6 months remain, the calculator uses an immediate start. With less than 10 years remaining, an outstanding balance may be recovered from final salary or terminal benefits when you leave.
Is Forces Help to Buy completely tax-free?
The advance is interest-free, but if your total employment-related beneficial loans exceed £10,000 at any point in the tax year, a taxable benefit may arise. The calculator uses an illustrative normal-averaging method and cannot confirm your final tax liability.
Is there an insurance premium?
Yes. A monthly insurance premium is payable alongside your repayment. The rate is reviewed separately and you should check current rates on JPA.
Can two serving partners both apply?
Yes, dual-serving couples can apply individually based on their own salaries. However, each application is assessed separately, and you must check if your mortgage lender accepts two advances for affordability.
Can I use Forces Help to Buy with Shared Ownership?
Yes, it can normally be used alongside Shared Ownership schemes, provided the property and scheme meet the qualifying criteria.
Can it be used for a self-build or home extension?
Yes, it can be used for self-build properties and sometimes for extending an existing home, provided strict qualifying conditions and approvals are met.
Can I rent out a property bought using the scheme?
Renting out the property is only permitted under specific Service reasons (such as an assignment) and requires prior approval. You must check the latest JSP 464 for letting conditions.
How early should I apply?
You should normally submit your application via JPA at least six weeks before your expected property completion date.
Does the calculator confirm my eligibility?
No. This calculator provides a planning estimate. Only Defence Business Services (DBS) can confirm eligibility and approve the final amount.
Sources and important information
Disclaimer: This calculator gives an estimate, not an entitlement decision. Defence Business Services determines the approved amount. A mortgage lender separately assesses affordability and acceptance. Scheme rules and tax rates can change. The result is not financial, mortgage, legal or tax advice. The advance is repayable debt. A separate insurance premium normally applies.
Risk Warning: Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.