Relocation packages?

[mlalte]

I am looking to relocate to another state in September/October of this year. I have found several hospitals that offer relocation assistance and sign-on bonuses.

I have accepted sign-on bonuses for several positions in the past, but have never relocated before. I realize that each organization does things a bit different... but has anyone taken a relocation bonus for a new job that would be willing to share your experience? I am wondering if the relocation bonus assists with up-front costs like first month rent/security deposit, moving expenses - or do these items get reimbursed later?

[chiflavored]

How were you able to find places that offer relocation assistance? I'm looking to relocate soon and don't really know how to look up this info.

From my experience, my current job offered relocation. It wasn't something I expected when accepting the job. They offered to pay to ship my car and flight tickets for myself and my husband to come out. We had to drive/ ship the other car ourselves, which was fine. They also had a moving company help relocate our stuff. These expenses I did not have to pay myself.

When we drove one of our cars up, they offered to reimburse for gas and lodging. These expenses I had to pay myself, then submit the receipt for reimbursement. They did not help with first month rent/security deposit, but did have a company help us find an apartment/house if we needed. But I ended up finding our place myself.