The Financial Side of Traveling: Stipends, Expenses, and What to Avoid

One of the biggest adjustments for first-time allied and clinical travelers is understanding how compensation really works. Your pay package isn’t just an hourly rate—it often includes stipends for housing, meals, and other expenses.

Done right, stipends are a great benefit. Done wrong, they can create financial headaches or even tax trouble. Here’s what you need to know before you sign your first contract.

1. Travel Stipends 101: The Dos and Don’ts

Stipends are meant to offset the costs of being away from your tax home, and in many cases, they can be tax-free. But that doesn’t mean everything automatically qualifies.

Key Items:

• Do familiarize yourself with IRS and GSA guidelines—stipends are only tax-free if you maintain a permanent tax home.

• Don’t assume every expense is covered. Some payments may be taxable depending on your situation.

• Do request a full pay package breakdown so you know exactly what portion is taxable vs. non-taxable.

2. The Pitfall of Duplicating Expenses

One of the most common mistakes for new travelers is duplicating expenses—accepting a stipend for costs already reimbursed elsewhere. This can put you at risk of noncompliance or even an audit.

Key Items:

• Don’t double-dip. If the facility provides free housing, you cannot also claim a housing stipend.

• Keep records. Save receipts and documentation for housing, meals, and travel in case you ever need proof.

• Ask first. When in doubt, clarify with your recruiter what’s legitimately reimbursable.

3. Why Transparency Matters

The reality is that not every staffing firm handles stipends the same way. Some bury taxable details in the fine print. At Spire, we believe first-time allied and clinical travelers deserve clarity from day one.

Key Items:

• Full transparency. We break down every pay package so you know exactly what you’re earning and how it’s categorized.

• Compliance first. By following GSA and IRS guidelines, we help you avoid risks down the road.

• Maximized value. Transparency doesn’t mean less pay—it means knowing how to make the most of your package safely.

Starting your first travel assignment is exciting—but the financial side can be tricky if you don’t know what to look for. Understanding stipends, avoiding duplicated expenses, and working with a recruiter who values transparency will set you up for long-term success.

Want a clear breakdown of what’s covered (and what’s not)? Ask a Spire recruiter before you sign—transparency is our standard.