If 13 weeks on assignment felt more like three, then you might want to consider an extension. You know what they say, time flies when you’re having fun.
Extensions defined
An extension is when a nurse continues their contract with the same facility. Initial contract lengths are anywhere from eight to 13 weeks. Extension contracts can vary even more depending on the facilities’ needs. If the need is there, Ethos account manager Danielle Mayer says:
“Nurses can extend at one facility for an entire year before being required to take a minimum 30-day break prior to returning.”
This is called the one-year rule. In order to deduct travel expenses, the IRS states that assignments cannot be “indefinite.” According to their definition, it cannot expect to last for more than 1 year.
Extensions offered or approved
An extension happens when a hospital either offers or approves the option for a nurse to extend their contract. There are two ways to get an extension.
The most common way is when the facility makes the first move. Offers for an extension usually happen around six-to-eight weeks before the current contract ends, however, some facilities wait until only two weeks are left. The hospital will send an extension offer to their account manager if they are satisfied with the nurse’s performance. The account manager reaches out to the nurse’s recruiter with the offer, then the nurse responds if they are interested in extending their contract.
Another way extensions happen is when nurses initiate the conversation with their recruiter. This can happen anytime within the contract. The recruiter will work with their account manager, who reaches out to the facility. The facility either approves or denies the extension request. This largely depends on the facilities’ needs and budget. This approach does not secure an extension, but it can open opportunities for one.
Extensions negotiated
Whether you begin the extension conversation or not, you have the chance for negotiating when the time comes. Your account manager works “behind the scenes” on all contracts. When working with them, nurses can request certain requirements in their contracts.
- Shorter contracts: Nurses don’t have to work a full 13 weeks. They have a say in how long they want to continue with the facility. Account managers will arrange a duration that works best for their nurse, even if it’s just for one week.
- Rate increase: During this time, travel nurses can ask for a rate increase. Although it depends largely on the facility, it never hurts to ask.
- Time off: For both new contracts and extensions, contract managers follow the same guidelines on RTO, which is a 10-day minimum unless approved by the unit manager. If you have time you want off coming up, mention this now.
- Start date: Depending on the facility, most nurses can negotiate a pause between contracts. This is a very common request for travel nurses, with the average break being about one week.
Extensions for the win
Extensions can be a great way to stay in a city you love, keep a really awesome housing deal and hang out with new friends for longer. Not to mention, it helps you put off the stress of applying for new jobs, moving to a different location, and going through the learning curve of a new hospital. Contract extensions can be a win-win situation for nurses and facilities alike.
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