I just received my first travel assignment in Stanford, Ca. I'm making a permanent move from Florida because my boyfriend will be attending school on the west coast, and what better way to go than traveling I thought. I just had a few questions about my travel assignment, as I'm so new to the lingo. So my pay is as:
Regular Rate: $22.59
Per Diem Rate: $35.00/day
From what my recruiter told me, both equal to 32$/hr. I don't understand what exactly is per diem rate. Is that a non-taxed paid rate that I automatically get on top of my regular rate? Is this a good start in terms of pay... Will I survive in CA, it's def. more than what I get in FL but hopefully in terms of living that's sufficient. Anyone know about traveling in Palo Alto?
Thanks for the advice... my housing will be provided for. I haven't made my mind if I should stick with their housing first and then once I get a feel for the new area to take a check in my next assignment or take the stipend. The stipend is $2000, and as I'm searching for other places to stay I'm noticing it is fairly low. I'm hoping I can just live and survive on what I'm earning... I guess that's how it goes with a first travel assignment... I don't know what to know really...
Please enquire with several agencies before accepting a contract. Educate yourself. I have spoken with an excellent California based agency called response 1 medical staffing, they explain every aspect of the contract, and answer questions thoroughly. Good luck!
If you call that company and ask what can your company do for me....you can see if the first one has lowballed you. California can be a killer in taxes if you are not careful all of your income will poof. I have known travelers that have gone there and haven't been able to make tax free money because they didn't have a home state....and couldn't deduct housing....they ended up working for free..... So please talk to several agencies ask if they have contracts at Stanford or close by, and when you get out there many agencies will let you work another shift per diem at 60-80/hr especially in the bay area.
The per diem rates are over and above a travel contract. For local travel while you are on assignment for cross country.........call tat same company. See if they can get you 1 shift a week........
I'm just starting to research travel nursing seriously for a possible venture into it in summer '13. I'm just wondering that if they can get a per diem shift cross town at that higher rate of pay (60-80/hr), why can't one get their whole assignment this way? Is it a matter of it being OT or need-based?
laughingthrutheday
5 Posts
Thanks for the advice... my housing will be provided for. I haven't made my mind if I should stick with their housing first and then once I get a feel for the new area to take a check in my next assignment or take the stipend. The stipend is $2000, and as I'm searching for other places to stay I'm noticing it is fairly low. I'm hoping I can just live and survive on what I'm earning... I guess that's how it goes with a first travel assignment... I don't know what to know really...