Local Travel Do's & Dont's

[MF-RN]

Former travel nurse who traveled from one state to another and currently licensed in both states. Completed one contract at hospital and signed on as permanent staff. Recently quit that permanent position and would like to start a travel position "locally", 40-60mi away from where I am currently renting an apartment. I intend on subletting or breaking the lease once I secure a travel position. Do I have to disclose the fact that I am renting or disclose where I currently live? What's the most beneficial and law abiding route to take?

[NedRN]

There is no law on the matter, it is legal to lie. The hospital to agency contract may stipulate they may not use travelers inside a certain radius so it is possible if the truth comes out that you could lose the assignment.

More importantly from a tax status, you will be itinerant and all compensation including housing is taxed as ordinary income. Agencies have you fill out a housing questionnaire to find out your tax status. You can lie on that one too, however if you haven't paid taxes on all your income and are audited, you may be found guilty of fraud in addition to paying back taxes, interest, and penalties.

[MF-RN]

Thank you for your response. I am trying to secure a travel position in a location that is too close to where I rent right now, therefore, I would not be considered a traveler or receive housing, etc. The location I want to travel is 40mi away (they do not have a position over their 50 mile minimum that is close enough to my desired location) and I want to receive the housing benefit because my boyfriend's job is relocating to this area. It would be an easy way for us to get housing in that area while we try to find someone to sublet our current apartment and so we can avoid duplicate housing expenses. Could I tell the travel company I have no tax home even though I am renting and have rented in this location a couple of years? Then work as itinerant in order to receive the housing, understanding everything will be taxed?

[NedRN]

Yes. That is a lie with no legal consequences. The worst that can happen is the hospital finds out you live in the local job pool and bounces you. That would be very unlucky indeed but I doubt the hospital will bounce you even if they find out. In fact, they will be lucky to have you as you may go staff.

If the agency knows where you live and will make an issue of it, find another agency now to submit you.

Also consider going staff now. The pay may be better than a fully taxed travel assignment and the benefits will certainly be better.