Independent contractors negotiating rate

Hi

I am interested in becoming an independent contractor b/c I am tired of sub contracting with incompetent/unprofessional agencies. I am ready to cut out the middle man.

But I would like to ask those of you who have taken the leap and are successfully working independently. When you negotiate your contracts, how do you determine the top billing rate? I was told that every state is different due to numerous things for example the cost of living. For example in Michigan I have talked to some nurses who have become independent contractors and state that Michigan's top billing rate is around $50-$55 an hour. Is there a web site that I can go to so I can view this information? What are the going rates for some of the other states, for example Virginia or Maryland.

Another question: Once you have obtained your top billing rate do you charge for overtime or b/c you are able to receive the billing rate that the agencies are obtaining do you not opt for overtime pay?

Final question: How often are paid as a independent contractor, is it weekly or monthly? I had one nurse who started their own agency state that they are paid monthly.

What are other suggestions to include in negotiating a contract?

Thank you



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Edited 10/1/2007 6:37 pm by positive15