Key points
- The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) launched Nurses for Nursing Homes on 23 October 2026, a $275 million program run with all 50 states and Washington, DC.
- Eligible RNs, LPN/LVNs and nursing students can receive up to $40,000 in student loan repayment, a $10,000 stipend, or both.
- In return, nurses commit to three years, working at least 30 hours a week, at an eligible nursing home.
CMS is contributing $100 million and the states at least $175 million. The money comes from civil monetary penalties that CMS and states collect from nursing homes, rather than from general tax revenue. CMS expects the program to support more than 4,000 nurses and nursing students.
All rural nursing facilities qualify, along with facilities in areas with higher labor shortages. Nurses can check eligibility, browse openings and apply on the program website, nursesfornursinghomes.cms.gov.
Who can apply
- Licensed RNs and LPN/LVNs who provide hands-on care, with an active license when employment begins.
- Nursing students, and recent graduates from the past two years (for the stipend).
- For loan repayment, you need eligible student loan debt.
- You must not have worked in a nursing home in the 60 days before opening your application account. A temporary exception covers nurses who started at an eligible nursing home between 28 July and 25 October 2026, if they apply between 26 October 2026 and 24 January 2027.
What it means for nurses
- Long-term care has long struggled to compete with hospitals for nurses. For new graduates with student debt, this offer can take a large bite out of what you owe.
- Three years is a real commitment. Read the service terms carefully, including what happens if you leave early.
- Ask the program or a tax adviser how loan repayment and stipends are treated for tax purposes before you sign.
- Interested in older adults’ care? This is a good moment to look at nursing home roles near you.
Frequently asked questions
Who is eligible for the Nurses for Nursing Homes program?
Licensed RNs and LPN/LVNs who provide hands-on care, plus nursing students and recent graduates, can apply. They must commit to three years, at least 30 hours a week, at an eligible nursing home in a rural or higher-shortage area, and meet the program’s timing rules.
How much money can nurses get from Nurses for Nursing Homes?
Eligible nurses can receive up to $40,000 in student loan repayment, a $10,000 stipend, or both. The stipend is aimed at nursing students and graduates from the past two years, while loan repayment requires eligible student loan debt.
Where do I apply for Nurses for Nursing Homes?
Applications are made on the official CMS program website, nursesfornursinghomes.cms.gov. There you can check eligibility, open an account, browse qualifying nursing home openings and read the program FAQ before applying.
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Sources
- CMS, states launch $275 million initiative to recruit, retain nurses in nursing homes, CMS press release, 23 October 2026
- Nurses for Nursing Homes program website, CMS
- CMS launches program to recruit, retain nurses in nursing homes, AHA News, 23 October 2026
This summary is for information only and does not replace official guidance or advice from a qualified professional.
