The Short Answer
Complete guide to travel nurse taxes in 2025. Learn about tax-free stipends, taxable wages, deductions, state taxes, and how to maximize your take-home pay.
Read the full breakdown below for detailed analysis, examples, and actionable steps.
CPA tax guide
Travel Nurse Tax Guide 2025: Complete Guide to Taxes, Stipends & Deductions
Travel nurse taxes are unique because your pay includes both taxable wages and tax-free stipends. This guide covers the rules, common pitfalls, and how to maximize take-home pay in 2025.
Taxable Wages vs. Tax-Free Stipends
- Taxable wages: hourly pay, overtime, bonuses.
- Tax-free stipends: housing, meals, incidentals (within GSA limits).
IRS Requirements for Tax-Free Stipends
- Maintain a valid tax home.
- Keep assignments temporary (under 12 months in one area).
- Duplicate expenses (home + assignment housing).
- Stay within GSA per diem limits.
State Tax Considerations
State taxes can materially impact net pay. High-tax states reduce take-home, while no-tax states can boost net.
Final Takeaway
Tax compliance is the foundation of travel nurse earnings. Protect your tax home, document expenses, and stay within GSA limits.
Estimate your net pay
Use the calculator to separate taxable wages from tax-free stipends.
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