"Local" travel, housing, & taxes???

[pinayRN]

I have interviewed for a travel contract in the city I live in and will probably be getting the contract details today or tomorrow. This is my first "Travel" assignment. Does anyone know how the housing stipend/home tax base will affect me and my pay? Both the hospital and the agency are aware I live in the city, and there is no >50mile from the hospital clause. Has anyone out there done "local travel?"

[mattsmom81]

I am curious about this too. One travel company was advertising a 4 week contract at $30 hr plus travel expenses, car and housing, etc.. I live in the area so I'm curious what the rate would be without all that...I also don't need insurance. Will travel companies work with 'locals' as well?? I'm curious how this would work.

[suzanne4, RN]

Depends on the hospital and state. Laws will vary, some hospitals actually refuse to hire nurses as travelers if they live less than 50 miles away from the facility.........................

If you live less than 50 miles away from your home base, you will not be able to get the traveler housing and perks tax-free, since you will not meet the requirements. Best thing is to check with your accountant for the most complete information. Same thing if you stay over a certain amount of time in the same city, example is Arizona. Then you are considered a resident of the state and your tax structure also changes.

[pinayRN]

Well I received my contract and there is a questionnaire that is for the agency to determine if I have a "tax home" that is outside of where I'm working. So apparently I will be taxed on the housing stipend. Still a pretty good deal, though. As far as insurance, I do know that it depends on the agency you're with. Some will give you a larger housing stipend or pay if you do not take the insurance.