About Pay
"Can I see the full pay package breakdown in writing?"
This is the most important question you can ask. You need to see every line item: hourly taxable rate, housing stipend, meals and incidentals stipend, travel reimbursement, and any other components. If they can't or won't provide this, do not sign. A transparent agency will provide this proactively.
"Is this the best pay package you can offer for this position?"
Many travelers don't realize pay is negotiable. Your recruiter may have room to adjust the package, especially if you're flexible on other terms. It never hurts to ask — a good recruiter won't be offended.
"How are overtime and holiday hours compensated?"
Overtime policies vary by facility and contract. Some positions offer time-and-a-half on your taxable rate only, while others include stipend adjustments. Get the specifics before you start.
About the Assignment
"What's the productivity expectation at this facility?"
Productivity requirements vary enormously between settings and facilities. Knowing the expectation upfront helps you decide if it's a realistic and sustainable workload for you.
"Why is this position open?"
Is this a seasonal need, a leave of absence coverage, or a chronic vacancy they can't fill with permanent staff? The answer tells you a lot about what you're walking into.
"Can I talk to a traveler who has worked at this facility?"
The best way to know what a facility is really like is to hear from someone who's been there. Good recruiters can sometimes connect you with current or past travelers at the same site.
"What's the patient population and caseload like?"
Don't assume — ask specifically about diagnoses, acuity, caseload numbers, and documentation systems. What you're told in a job description doesn't always match reality.
About the Contract
"What happens if the facility cancels my assignment early?"
Cancellation clauses vary widely between agencies. Some offer guaranteed hours or rapid reassignment. Others leave you high and dry. Know the policy before you sign.
"What's the cancellation penalty if I need to leave early?"
Life happens. Understand the financial consequences of ending a contract early — some agencies charge thousands in penalties while others are more reasonable.
"Is housing provided or do I take a stipend?"
Understand your options. Agency-provided housing might be convenient but is usually worth less than the stipend equivalent. Know both options and the dollar amounts for each.
About Benefits
"What health insurance options do you offer, and when does coverage start?"
Some agencies offer day-one coverage while others have waiting periods. Ask about plan details, premiums, and whether short-term health insurance might be a more affordable bridge during gaps. Plans in the $100–250/month range can cover you for up to 12 months and are renewable.
"Do you offer a 401(k) or retirement benefits?"
Not all travel therapy agencies offer retirement benefits. If they do, ask about employer matching, vesting schedules, and eligibility timelines.
"What CEU reimbursement or professional development do you provide?"
Many agencies offer CEU stipends or reimbursement. Some also cover licensure fees for new states. Ask what's included and what the process looks like.
About Your Recruiter
"How many travelers do you currently support?"
This tells you how much individual attention you can expect. A recruiter managing 20 travelers will give you a very different experience than one managing 80.
"What's your background? Do you have clinical experience?"
Recruiters with therapy backgrounds understand your clinical concerns at a deeper level. It's not a requirement, but it's a significant advantage.
"How do you prefer to communicate, and what's your typical response time?"
Set expectations early. Some recruiters prefer text, others email. Know how quickly they typically respond so you're not left wondering during time-sensitive situations.
The right recruiter won't be bothered by these questions — they'll welcome them. If a recruiter gets defensive or evasive when you ask for clarity, that tells you everything you need to know.