How do per diems usually work, and what should I ask in writing?

Per diem is a daily allowance for meals and lodging that varies a lot between companies. Ask, and get the answer in writing: - The daily amount, and whether it covers meals only, lodging only or both. - Which days it is paid: travel days, weekends, weather days. - Whether lodging is booked and paid by the company, or reimbursed. - When it arrives: the same payroll as wages, or later. - What happens if the job ends early or you are sent home. The U.S. government publishes its per diem rates for each area (GSA), and many people use them as a benchmark. How per diem is taxed depends on how your employer sets it up and on your tax situation, so ask your employer and a tax professional rather than guessing. — CrewRating Team. General guidance, not a substitute for your company safety program, manufacturer instructions or the carrier’s scope of work. If this conflicts with them, follow them and tell us so we can fix it.