How much should I ask for?

[theSunCityRN]

I'm thinking about getting into travel nursing or agency. I've spoken with one travel agency rep so far who asked what I make now working full time at an HCA facility and said I'd probably get paid about the same. If I wanted to make the same as I do now I wouldn't be talking to a travel nurse rep! How much should I be asking for? (I've been on the floor for 5 yrs and done Ortho/Neuro, oncology and cardiac step down)

[NedRN]

You need to discuss compensation with more agencies. You can do better as a traveler than HCA pay unless you are staying local.

Your question is analogous to saying you went to a Ford dealer and the sales guy says the cost will be about the same as your last car. Zero information. Shop around!

[Argo]

1 million dollars.

[fallonalexis77]

Its always a good idea to have more than one agency because one agency my have access to hospitals that another doesn't. I'm a labor and delivery trav. I will not work for less than 1600 a week, and I want either a completion bonus or paid overtime of $50 to $60. I might take 1500 if its a great spot like Arizona, NV, etc. You cant be shy with them because they will low ball you and I always take my housing stipend and I don't want their insurance so pay me more for that. I have two sons and a husband so I have promised to do no more out of state assignments unless its the summer and everyone wants to tag along as a vacay.