Your Pay Package
IRS-compliant structure
LPN • Rhode Island • 13 weeks
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- ✓ Work in no-tax states (TX, FL, NV, WA)
- ✓ Maintain a legitimate tax home
- ✓ Take assignments in high GSA areas
- ✓ Negotiate for higher gross rates
Frequently Asked Questions
How is travel nurse pay calculated?
Travel nurse pay consists of two parts: taxable hourly wages and tax-free stipends (housing + meals). The IRS requires a minimum taxable rate, while stipends are capped at GSA per diem rates for your assignment location.
What is a tax home and why does it matter?
A tax home is your permanent residence where you maintain living expenses (rent/mortgage, utilities). If you have a tax home, you can receive tax-free stipends for duplicating expenses while on assignment. Without one, your entire pay is taxable.
What are GSA per diem rates?
GSA (General Services Administration) sets maximum daily rates for lodging and meals & incidental expenses (M&IE) by location. These rates determine the maximum tax-free stipends you can receive. Rates vary significantly - from $110/night in rural areas to $300+/night in major cities.
How much do travel nurses actually take home?
Most travel nurses take home 75-85% of their gross pay when structured correctly with tax-free stipends. For a $2,500/week contract, expect $1,900-$2,100 take-home after taxes and with stipends.
Are travel nurse stipends taxed?
No, if you maintain a tax home and stipends are within GSA limits, they're completely tax-free. This is why travel nurses often earn more take-home pay than staff nurses despite similar gross rates.
What states have no income tax for travel nurses?
Texas, Florida, Nevada, Washington, Wyoming, South Dakota, Alaska, Tennessee, and New Hampshire have no state income tax. Working in these states means more take-home pay - typically 5-9% more than high-tax states like California or New York.
Understanding Travel Nurse Compensation
Travel nursing offers unique compensation structures that can significantly increase your take-home pay compared to staff positions. Our calculator helps you understand exactly how much you'll earn after taxes and with tax-free stipends.
Taxable Wages
Your base hourly rate that's subject to federal, state, and FICA taxes. Must meet IRS minimum requirements.
Housing Stipend
Tax-free reimbursement for lodging expenses, capped at GSA rates for your assignment location.
M&IE Stipend
Tax-free meals & incidental expenses allowance, based on GSA per diem rates for your location.
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