Meal stipend?

[michlynn, BSN, RN]

Sorry for all of the recent questions, everyone, but I'm trying to get this all straight before I officially accept my first assignment. Should I be requesting a daily meal allowance? I've read mixed things about that topic. And also, should health insurance be included in my pay or is that something that will be deducted from my pay? I'm just very confused about what I should and should not be requesting from my recruiter. I was already told about my housing stipend and that I would be reimbursed for my license and travel expenses to and from my assigned destination. Any info is greatly appreciated!

[NedRN]

You should be requesting a complete quote of all compensation. That includes benefits such as insurance and paycheck deductions if any. You can learn what the real value of insurance by asking for the COBRA cost. Ask for a stipend breakdown of housing (even if you are taking provided housing, ask what the stipend would be if you don't take housing), per diems or M&IE, and travel. Once you have all the numbers, you can plug them into PanTravelers calculator so you can compare offers on a level playing field. PanTravelers has a lot of information on what all those compensations items mean and how to negotiate them.

[michlynn, BSN, RN]

Thanks for your help, Ned! All of these numbers are giving me a headache.