🩺 America Needs Nurses | Workforce Spotlight – June 2025

Big news for registered nurses considering a career in long-term care facilities: the Biden Administration, through CMS, is offering up to $50,000 in financial incentives for RNs who commit to working in qualifying nursing homes—or state agencies—for three years

This groundbreaking initiative could reshape both individual careers and the future of nursing home staffing.

📌 What’s Included in the Program

• Up to $40,000 toward student loan repayment

• Up to $10,000 in additional living expense stipends

• Total package = $50,000 over a 3‑year commitment

• Adjusted amounts based on local cost of living

• Quarterly payments are available—so cash flow stays steady

🎯 Who’s Eligible & What’s Required?

• Licensed RNs working 30+ hours per week at CMS‑designated “Financial Incentive Administrator” nursing homes or state agencies

• Student loans are required for the $40K portion; the living stipend is available to newly hired RNs—even without loans

• Full-time, direct hires only—no contract or travel nurse roles qualify

📅 Why Now?

This incentive is part of a larger Nursing Home Staffing Campaign, aimed at preparing facilities for CMS’s upcoming 2026 24/7 RN staffing mandate, which requires one RN onsite at all times
CMS has dedicated $5M–$20M to this program and is accepting applications from eligible providers through March 7 

🌍 Why It Matters—For Nurses and Residents

For RNs:

• Significant debt relief and enhanced local job opportunities

• Stability and career growth in an underserved environment

• Chance to make a meaningful impact in long‑term care

For Facilities:

• Ability to meet staffing mandates and boost care quality

• Better RN retention by offering meaningful incentives

• Moves long-term care roles into the talent marketplace spotlight

🗣️ Nurse Voice: Reaction from the Field

Still, questions remain on whether nursing homes can meet staffing mandates and find enough RNs

✅ What You Can Do Next

Eligible RNs:

1. Check whether your nursing home—or one nearby—is CMS-approved

2. Confirm your student loan status

3. Speak to HR about applying for funds and ensuring a 3-year commitment

Employers:

• Apply by March 7 for FIA status and funding

• Inform your RN staff about eligibility and benefits

• Consider partnerships with local nursing schools to boost your pipeline

America Needs Nurses is here to help both RNs and employers navigate this program—whether you're relocating internationally or are existing staff.

📅 Want Help Applying? Let’s Talk.
📧 [email protected]
🌐 www.americaneedsnurses.com/workforce

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