Ohio Heroes · Healthcare workers
Ohio Heroes for nurses and healthcare workers
Ohio physicians, nurse practitioners, RNs, LPNs and STNAs can use Ohio Heroes for a discounted OHFA rate plus forgivable down payment help.
Who is covered
OHFA lists physicians, nurse practitioners, registered nurses, licensed practical nurses and state-tested nursing assistants (STNAs). OHFA does not publish how employment or licensing is verified, so your lender tells you what it needs.
Ohio Heroes is a 30-year fixed OHFA mortgage with a discounted interest rate for Ohio teachers, police, firefighters, EMTs, healthcare workers and veterans. You can add optional OHFA Down Payment Assistance of 3% (conventional) or 3.5% (FHA, VA, USDA) of the purchase price, forgiven after seven years. OHFA does not publish the size of the rate discount, so a participating lender quotes it.
The income limit still applies
Doctors and nurse practitioners should check the county income limit first. As of July 1, 2026, non-target limits for 1 to 2 people range from $98,800 in many counties to $146,700 in Union County. Higher limits apply in federally designated target areas.
Just finished school?
Nurses who earned a degree in the last 18 months can compare OHFA's Grants for Grads, where the assistance is forgiven after five years if you stay in Ohio.
Papers to pull together
- Last three years of tax returns and W-2s
- 30 days of pay stubs
- 30 days of bank statements
- Your Social Security number
- Proof of your healthcare role, as your lender requests
Reader questions
Do STNAs qualify?
Yes. State-tested nursing assistants are on OHFA's Ohio Heroes list.
Do shift differentials count as income?
OHFA counts all income of the borrowers who will live in the home. Your lender decides how variable pay is calculated.
Is the assistance a loan?
It is forgiven after seven years. If you sell within seven years, you repay it in full.
