pay travel company

Uplift is the leader in Buy Now, Pay Later for travel .

When you pay monthly for a flight, a cruise, a hotel, or vacation package – you’re giving yourself the freedom to travel farther and explore more enjoyably. Millions of consumers choose Buy Now, Pay Later options for vacation and travel so that they can say “yes” to all those bucket-list items and pay over time.

Paying monthly with Uplift helps you avoid late fees or annual fees you may incur using a credit card. Not to mention you’ll never have to worry about prepayment penalties, debt traps, or compound interest using Uplift.

Whether you’re traveling for work, to visit family or friends, or simply taking that trip you’ve always been dreaming of, using Uplift to pay for flights in installments or spread the cost of your hotel into monthly payments is the perfect option.

Unlike other Buy Now, Pay Later companies, Uplift’s Customer Service Squad is available 24/7 and provides unparalleled service from purchase to final payment.

A few of our partners:

Uplift knows just how much thought, care, and planning goes into creating the most memorable experiences. Lump-sum costs shouldn’t hold you back from booking.

When it comes to paying monthly for your vacation purchases, rest easy knowing that Uplift is the original Buy Now, Pay Later for travel.

Take a look at what our valued travelers have been saying lately.

My daughter just moved from CA to TX and was not able to come home for Thanksgiving. I thought I would surprise her with a visit from myself, her brother and his wife. She will be very happy.

So excited this will be my first trip to Las Vegas an I can take it off my bucket list thanks to Uplift.

Was a great option to pre-book flights without having to pay the entire amount! We travel with a family of 5 so everything is always expensive!

Need more answers to your questions about Uplift? Start here.

Why choose Uplift?

Uplift gives you the freedom to purchase what you want now and pay with fixed monthly payments. Uplift is often a better alternative to credit cards because Uplift charges only simple interest while some credit cards charge interest on interest. Uplift also makes budgeting easy so you can manage your expenses over time rather than paying one large sum all at once.

What kind of products and services can I purchase using Uplift?

Uplift can be used to purchase a wide range of products and services from our travel partners and retailers. Click here to see a full list of our current partners who offer Uplift. Click here to see a full list of our current partners who offer Uplift.

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What is the advantage of using Uplift vs a credit card?

While some credit cards charge interest on interest, Uplift charges only simple interest. If you carry a balance on a credit card, it can be hard to understand what it will cost you. With Uplift, the cost is clear at the time of purchase, with simple interest, predictable payments, and no fees.

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The Guide to Pay Later Travel

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Pay later is becoming a popular travel tool. In 2019, $10 million was spent on travel-related " buy now, pay later ." However, by 2021, $800 million was spent on travel-related buy now, pay later.

With pay later becoming more widely available and used for travel expenses, we'll dive into what you need to know to see whether this financing option is a smart money move for you.

There are different types of pay later travel options

“Pay later” travel is a broad term, but it generally falls into one of two categories:

Buy now, pay later services where you pay for your travel in equal installments, sometimes with added interest. Examples include travel booked using Affirm and Uplift.

Travel that you book in advance but don’t pay for until later. An example is Hotels.com, which will sometimes let you reserve a room and pay for it at check-in.

Basically, as long as you’re not paying in full for the travel upfront, it qualifies as pay later travel.

Some travel companies offer pay later travel options directly

There are several ways to book pay later travel, including booking directly with certain airlines, hotels and other travel companies that offer pay later at checkout, including:

Alaska Airlines.

Southwest Airlines.

United Airlines.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

Some of these companies offer pay later travel through a partner, and others offer buy now, pay later travel directly.

For instance, Southwest offers buy now, pay later through Uplift, whereas Hilton allows you to book certain reservations by putting a credit card down and then paying in full when you check out.

» Learn more: Are buy now, pay later flights worth it?

There are companies that specialize in pay later that you can use for travel

If you want to use pay later travel for your trip and the airline, hotel or travel company doesn’t offer pay later travel directly, you may be able to pay for your travel later by using a company that specializes in that option — companies like Affirm , Zip , Uplift and Afterpay .

You may also be able to use your credit card for pay later travel. For instance, Chase has a service called My Chase Plan where you can split a purchase of $100 or more into equal monthly installments for a fixed monthly fee instead of credit card interest.

» Learn more: Buy now, pay later already comes standard on many credit cards

Pay later travel may cost you more

Using a pay later service may cost you more money overall, so be sure to read the fine print before opting for pay later travel.

Do the math to compare how much you’ll pay over time versus how much you’ll pay if you pay for the travel upfront.

For example, CheapOair — which offers buy now, pay later travel through Affirm — has a disclaimer:

"Rates from 10–36% APR. For example, a $800 purchase might cost $72.21/mo over 12 months at 15% APR. Payment options through Affirm are subject to an eligibility check and are provided by these lending partners: affirm.com/lenders. Options depend on your purchase amount, and a down payment may be required."

In CheapOair’s example, you would either:

Pay $800 by paying for your travel upfront.

Pay $866.52 by using pay later travel ($72.21 per month times 12 months).

Because paying later on travel can end up costing you more, unless you’re able to get pay later travel at a 0% interest rate, you should use it only occasionally and stick to paying upfront when you can.

» Learn more: How to make a flight payment plan with no credit check

Your credit may be affected by paying later

Deferring payments on travel may affect your credit score — another reason that this shouldn’t be your go-to option. Affirm, one of the major players in pay later travel, says this about whether using the company will affect your credit:

"Creating an Affirm account and seeing if you prequalify will not affect your credit score. If you decide to buy with Affirm, these things may affect your credit score: making a purchase with Affirm, your payment history with Affirm, how much credit you've used, and how long you’ve had credit."

When using pay later travel companies like Affirm, Zip and Uplift, you should consider it as a loan that can help and hurt your credit score, and it should not be taken out lightly.

» Learn more: Could a buy now, pay later loan affect my credit?

The bottom line

When it comes to travel expenses, these installment loan options generally fall into one of two categories: buy now, pay later services where you pay in equal partial payments (sometimes with an added fee or interest rate) and travel that you book and then pay in full later, like a hotel reservation that doesn’t require payment until checkout.

Although there are travel companies that offer pay later services directly, like Alaska Airlines, Hilton and Priceline, you can also turn to other companies — like Affirm and Uplift — to pay less upfront.

Before financing travel with a pay later service, note that it may cost you more money in the long run and also may affect your credit score, so be sure to do research and read the fine print.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5%-6.5% Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year). After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

$300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options.

75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

Expedia Rewards is now One Key™

Vacation payment plans - book now, pay later.

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Vacation payment plans 

Jet off on your dream 2024 getaway with vacation payment plans by Expedia Affirm. From relaxing beach escapes to European city breaks, your next adventure is more affordable than you think thanks to Expedia’s book now, pay later vacations. Instead of paying the entire trip cost up front, pay-later travel deal lets you make monthly payments towards your adventure whether it’s in 2024 or 2025. Expedia Affirm gives you the option to spread the cost over 3, 6, or 12 months, with no hidden fees. This means you can bag the best travel deals with monthly vacation payment plans. 

Wondering where to take your kids for a summer break in the sun? Choose from a vast array of family vacation packages with payment plans. Your kids could soon be swimming with dolphins in Cancun or riding rollercoasters in Florida’s theme parks. If it’s a romantic retreat you’re seeking, whisk your partner away to an adults-only resort by the beach. You’ll encounter a plethora of all-inclusive vacations with payment plans to hot destinations, including the Caribbean and the Maldives. Play around with the easy-to-use search wizard to view a wide range of book now, pay later vacations. Simply select “Monthly payments” at checkout to book your pay-later travel deal. 

Worried your 2024 plans may change? No problem. Expedia Affirm lets you cancel or modify your booking at no extra cost. You’ll encounter epic vacation payment plans with flexible booking conditions for a vast array of accommodation, car rental, and travel packages. Read on for ideas and inspiration, with everything from romantic weekend getaways to all-inclusive vacations with payment plans. 

Book now, pay later vacations

1. choose your dream expedia vacation.

Take your pick from hundreds of book now, pay later vacation packages. Need inspiration for 2024? Scroll down and you’ll encounter plenty of ideas for relaxing vacations with payment plans, including short getaways and international adventures. If you’ve got somewhere in mind, tap your dates and destination into the search wizard to compare the best pay-later travel deals.

2. Select the plan that works for you

Ready to snatch up one of Expedia’s book now, pay later vacations? Then click “Monthly payments” at checkout, “Continue to Affirm”, and enter a few pieces of information. It’ll give you an instant, real-time decision and display the vacation payment plans available. Pick the one that suits you best and you’re all set – your dream escape is booked.

3. Make simple and easy payments

Once you’ve reserved one of Expedia’s book now, pay later vacation packages, create your account to set up monthly payments. You can do so through the Affirm website or by downloading the app. Whichever option you choose, you can set up automatic payments in a few quick and easy steps.

Why book now, pay later with Expedia?

Whether it’s catching a tan in the Caribbean or soaking up the culture in Europe, you can now jet off on the adventure you’ve been dreaming of for years. With a vast array of destinations and vacation types available, Expedia Affirm makes travel more affordable than ever. Here are just some of the benefits of booking Expedia’s buy now, pay later vacations. 

waiting until pay day to score the best discounts.

Frequently asked questions about payment plans to book now, pay later on Expedia

Can i pay monthly for my vacation with expedia.

Yes, you can pay monthly for your vacation with Expedia Affirm vacation payment plans. Simply choose your dream travel package and select “Monthly payments” at checkout. You’ll have the option to spread the cost over 3, 6, or 12 months, giving you financial flexibility when planning your dream getaway. These pay-later travel deals include all-inclusive escapes, family breaks, weekend getaways, and more. Thanks to Expedia’s vacation payment plans, you can now jet off on the adventure you’ve been dreaming of for years.

How to use Affirm on Expedia and where can I find this payment option?

To take advantage of Affirm’s vacation payment plans, choose your travel package and select “Monthly payments” at checkout. Click “Continue to Affirm”, enter your details, and you’ll get an instant, real-time decision. It’ll then display the final cost for spreading the cost over 3, 6, or 12 months. Choose the plan that’s right for you and you’re all set. You can then log in to Affirm or download the app to set up automatic payments.

How do I use Afterpay on Expedia?

Affirm is Expedia’s trusted partner for pay-later travel. Book with Expedia Affirm to spread the cost over 3, 6, or 12 monthly payments with simple interest and no hidden fees. You can even set up automatic payments on Affirm’s website or through the app. Expedia’s vacation payment plans are available on a vast array of packages, accommodation, and car rentals.

Is there a credit check when paying with a payment plan?

Yes, there is a credit check to see if you qualify for Expedia Affirm’s vacation payment plans. The good news is this pre-check will have no impact on your credit score. It’s quick and easy to perform, and you’ll get a real-time decision instantly. All you need to do is enter a few brief details to do the check.

Can I book all-inclusive vacations with payment plans?

With Expedia Affirm, you can book a vast array of all-inclusive vacations with payment plans. Choose to split the total cost of your escape into 3, 6, or 12 monthly installments. If you’re open to ideas and need inspiration, check out Expedia’s all-inclusive vacation packages to view some of the most popular deals. If you know where you’d like to jet off to, tap your dates and destination into the search wizard. Select the “All-inclusive” filter under “Meal plans available” to view hundreds of the best vacations with payment installments. Whether you’re craving white-sand beaches in the Bahamas or the tropical shores of Hawaii, your next getaway is more affordable than you think. 

Can I book family vacation packages with payment plans?

You can book a wide range of family vacation packages with payment plans thanks to Expedia Affirm. Once you’ve found your perfect 2024 escape, click the “Monthly payment” tab at checkout and follow the quick and easy steps. You’ll have the option to pay in 3, 6, or 12 monthly installments with simple interest and no hidden fees. Take a peek at Expedia’s family vacations for ideas and inspiration. If you’ve got somewhere in mind already, enter your dates and destination into the search wizard to view hundreds of the best pay-later travel deals. From Florida’s exhilarating theme parks to the Dominican Republic’s fun-filled kid-friendly resorts, your family adventure is just a few clicks away. 

What are the benefits of vacation payment plans?

Expedia’s book now, pay later vacations mean you can jet off on the dream trip you wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford in 2024. From romantic sunsets on Jamaica’s beaches to the elegant streets of Paris, the world is more accessible with Expedia Affirm. You’ll have the option to pay in 3, 6, or 12 monthly installments, and you’ll see the total cost up front. There are no hidden fees or late payment fees either, so you can rest assured that what you see is what you pay. Automatic payments are easy to set up and make for a hassle-free booking. Many of Expedia’s vacation packages even allow you to modify or cancel your trip at no extra cost, giving you peace of mind in case your 2024 plans change. As you no longer have to pay up front, you can nab the best travel deals before they’re gone – no need to save up or wait until payday.

How can I find great deals on vacation packages with payment plans?

If you’re keen to score the best deals on book now, pay later vacations in 2024, it’s a good idea to be flexible with your dates. You may find cheaper vacations on different days. For travel during peak season dates, be sure to book early to nab the best prices and your first choice of hotels – accommodation can fill up during busier months. If you plan to get away in low season, you may score a great deal for a last-minute escape. Another way to score great travel discounts is to take advantage of special offers, discounts, and promotions.

Are there any additional fees or interest charges for pay monthly vacations?

You’ll be pleased to know there are no hidden fees with Expedia Affirm’s monthly payment vacation plans. What you see is what you’ll pay. Before you confirm, you’ll be able to view the total cost of your book now, pay later vacation package. While most credit cards charge compound interest that’s complicated to work out, with Affirm you’ll pay simple interest on your monthly installments. Best of all, there are no late payment fees or just-because fees. Expedia Affirm’s simple and transparent pricing make booking your dream 2024 escape a breeze.

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16 Airlines That Let You Book Flights Now and Pay Later

Planning a trip but don't want to pay for it all at once? These sites offer book-now, pay-later flights.

Orbon Alija/Getty Images

If you think a vacation is out of your reach, think again. Some airlines and online travel agencies have services that allow you to book a trip now and pay for it over time.

Affirm, PayPal, Uplift, and Klarna are among the book-now, pay-later services travel companies and airlines offer. Here, we break down the basics of these and airlines' own "BNPL" options so you can secure flights when the prices are lowest, even if you don't want to pay for them in full upfront.

Airlines Offering Book-now, Pay-later Flights

AeroMexico connects major U.S. cities to Latin American destinations like Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta. The airline partners with Uplift to provide a monthly payment option. When you go to book a flight, you'll see an option to pay in monthly installments. Click through and you'll be asked for any personal information Uplift needs to process the loan.

You can also pay in installments through Klarna. Download the Klarna extension for Chrome or the app and you should see a pink "K" icon that will show you financing options. AeroMexico takes PayPal, which means you can use PayPal Credit to split up payments if you're approved.

Pay monthly for Air Canada flights and Air Canada Vacations packages with Uplift or PayPal Credit.

Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines partners with Uplift and Klarna to offer financing for flights.

Allegiant also uses Uplift and Klarna to provide payment plans. Select the Allegiant Pay option at checkout to choose financing through Uplift.

American Airlines

American Airlines offers several ways to buy now and pay later, including Klarna; PayPal Credit; Citi Flex Pay for select Citi cardholders; and Affirm, which has biweekly, monthly, and interest-free options but doesn't cover the cost of any flight extras, like luggage. American Airlines Vacations also gives you the option to pay monthly with Uplift.

Azul Airlines is a low-cost Brazilian airline that accepts payments through Uplift and PayPal.

Delta Air Lines

Delta offers PayPal Credit as a payment option, and you can pay using Affirm if you book your trip through Delta Vacations , a service for SkyMiles members that bundles flights, hotels, transportation, and activities.

One of the United Arab Emirates' two flag carriers, this airline partners with financing institutions Uplift and Klarna. You can also pay with PayPal Credit.

Frontier Airlines

Budget carrier Frontier Airlines lets you pay monthly installments through Uplift on purchases of $49 or more. If eligible, you will see the option at checkout. Frontier is also a Klarna retail partner.

KLM offers customers the option of holding a fare for 72 hours for a non-refundable fee. This is great if you find a fare that you want to book but need a few days to think about it. In addition, the airline takes PayPal Credit. This service is shown on the payment page as a "Bill Me Later" option, but directs you to your PayPal wallet.

Lufthansa has a list of payment methods on its website . Some monthly payment options are available specifically for residents of Brazil and Colombia. U.S. residents may pay monthly through PayPal Credit.

Porter Airlines

Porter , a Canadian airline, allows customers to use Uplift and PayPal to purchase flights across the U.S. and Canada.

Qatar Airways

Unless you're flying from Brazil, Brunei, or Kazakhstan, you can hold any Qatar Airways booking for up to 72 hours. How long prospective travelers can hold their Qatar flights depends on where they intend to fly to and from. The "Hold My Booking" option, available on the payment page, requires a non-refundable fee that doesn't go toward the price of your ticket. In most cases, you can also use PayPal Credit.

Southwest Airlines uses Uplift to break the cost of the flight up into fixed monthly payments. It also accepts PayPal Credit and Klarna.

Sunwing connects Canadian cities with destinations in Mexico and the Caribbean. You can pay for plane tickets in monthly installments through Uplift.

United Airlines

Use Uplift, PayPal Credit, or Klarna to pay for United Airlines flights in monthly installments. The company also has a program called FareLock that allows you to pay a fee to hold a fare for three, seven, or 14 days before paying for it in full. If you decide not to buy the ticket, you forfeit the fee. This service is offered only on itineraries wholly operated by United Airlines and/or United Express.

Online Travel Agencies Offering Monthly Payment Options

Alternative airlines.

Any ticket booked through Alternative Airlines can be paid for in weekly, biweekly, or monthly installments with Uplift. The online travel agency markets itineraries by more than 600 airlines, and Uplift financing can be used for all of them. You can also split payments through Klarna.

CheapOair.com

CheapOair uses Affirm to offer customers a monthly payment option.

Funjet Vacations

Funjet Vacations uses Uplift to offer monthly payments for its flights and vacation packages.

Priceline uses Affirm to handle monthly payments. Select the "monthly payments" option on the secure billing step of the booking process and choose from three-, six-, or 12-month options. Alternatively, break it up into four payments over six weeks using Klarna.

How Buy-now, Pay-later Services Work

Airlines and travel agencies partner with BNPL services like the travel-specific Uplift or the more broadly available Affirm to offer monthly payment options. Some take payments through PayPal Credit and/or Klarna. Learn about the differences between these services and how they work.

Affirm allows customers to pay monthly or every two weeks. Terms can last up to 48 months for the largest loans, but more typically, they last up to a year. Interest rates vary by person, ranging from 0% to 36% APR, and are determined at the time of sign-up. A down payment and credit check might be required when you apply for a loan.

To use Affirm, you will need a phone number to use as an account login. The service is available only in the U.S. and Canada. Once you've created your account and gotten approved for a loan amount, you can set up auto-pay or pay each month via the app or website. You can find a full list of Affirm's travel partners, including airlines and accommodations, on its website .

PayPal Credit

This is a monthly payment option provided by travel companies that take PayPal. Typically, you'll choose PayPal as your payment method, and once you sign into your PayPal account, you can choose PayPal Credit . As of 2023, the variable purchase APR is about 28% for new accounts, but you can avoid paying interest altogether if you pay the loan off within six months. Loan applications are subject to credit approval.

Uplift is the leading pay-over-time financing service in the travel space, partnering with cruise lines, hotel chains, airlines, and more. Once you have selected a product, like your flight, you are shown a per-month rate based on the price of the items in your shopping cart. When you get to the payment page and choose monthly payment as your option, you will be asked for some personal details, and once you click "check rate," you will be told whether you've been approved. Uplift offers an APR of 0% to 36% based on your credit. You won't be penalized for paying late or early, and you can set up autopay so the money comes out of your account automatically.

Klarna breaks up the price of your ticket into monthly payments or four equal payments to be made two weeks apart. Add the Klarna extension to your Chrome browser or download the app on your phone, then book your flight as usual, selecting Klarna at checkout. The first payment will be due upfront. Klarna offers an APR of 0% to about 30%.

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• Building Your Business
• Business Taxes

When Must I Pay Employees for Travel Time?

Travel Time vs. Commuting Time

Image by Jo Zixuan Zhou © The Balance 2020 

In general, your business should pay employees for the time they spend traveling for work-related activities. You don't have to pay employees for travel that is incidental to the employee's duties and time spent  commuting  (traveling between home and work). Travel time can include both local trips and travel away from home. 

Travel vs. Commuting Time 

Commuting is going back and forth to work. Everyone (at least everyone who doesn't work at home) commutes to a job. Commuting time is personal time, not business time. The IRS does not allow businesses to deduct commuting time as a business expense, and employees should not be paid for the commuting time.     

The Department of Labor (DOL) discusses employees who drive employer-provided vehicles. The DOL considers the time spent in home-to-work travel by an employee in an employer-provided vehicle, or in activities performed by an employee that are incidental to the use of the vehicle for commuting, generally is not "hours worked" and, therefore, does not have to be paid.  

Here's a possible rule of thumb: If your business authorizes a trip by an employee, no matter how the employee travels (car, train, bus, etc.) you should pay for the employee's travel time. 

Travel time for hourly and salaried employees may be counted differently. Pay to employees for local travel time is only applicable to non-exempt (hourly) employees, not to exempt (professional or managerial) employees.     Exempt employees are paid for their expertise by the job, not by the hour.  

Different Types of Travel Time:

Home to Work Travel , as explained above, is commuting time, not work time, and it's not paid.

Travel on Special One Day Assignment in Another City. The DOL says "the time spent in traveling to and return from the other city is work time," but they note that you may deduct the time the employee would spend commuting.

Sara works in an office in your company, but you send her to another city on a special assignment. She leaves from her home, goes to the city, and comes back home the same day. She spends 3 hours traveling (1 1/2 hours each way) from home to the other city. She would normally spend 30 minutes total driving from her home to work and back, so you could deduct the 30 minutes and pay her for 2 1/2 hours of travel time.

Travel That's Part of the Employee's Normal Work. Time an employee spends traveling is part of the job. You must count this time as work time. The time the employee spends going to the first job site, and home from the last job site, is commuting time and isn't paid.  

An LPN (licensed professional nurse) works for a nursing facility and travels between the two locations of this facility, providing care for patients at both locations. Her daily travel time between these locations must be included in her pay because she is not commuting. But she can't count the time driving from home to the first location or the time back home from the last location.

Travel Away from Home. If travel includes an overnight stay it is travel time. The DOL doesn't include travel away from home outside regular hours as a passenger on an airplane, train, boat, bus, or car as work time. But you must count hours worked on regular working days and work hours on nonworking days (weekends and holidays).  

If an employee travels from Cleveland to Pittsburgh for a two-day seminar at the direction of your company, you must pay for the hours the employee would have worked in a normal workday for each of those days, even if they were on Saturday or Sunday.

Incidental vs. Work Travel: Paid or Not Paid?

• An employee drives to work from his home every day. You ask him to stop on his way and pick up bagels for the staff meeting. This driving time is not paid. Time commuting to work is never paid time; the time to stop for the bagels is "incidental" to the commuting and is not part of the employee's job. 
• You ask an employee to drive to a store on work time to get bagels for the office meeting. If the employee makes this trip during normal work hours, he or she should be paid. 

Also, you might want to contact an employment attorney to discuss these issues. 

Paying for Travel Expenses

In addition to paying employees for travel time, you should pay their expenses for travel. The Department of Labor doesn't require reimbursement for travel expenses, but it makes sense to pay employees if you require them to travel.   Your business can deduct employee travel expenses as a business expense.   If employees mix business and personal travel, you need to sort out the part that is business-related and pay only these expenses. 

State Regulations on Paying for Employee Travel

Check with your state labor department to see if there are any rules which might override the federal rules. Contact the nearest local office of the U.S. Department of Labor for information on specific instances of travel time that affect your business.

Internal Revenue Service. " Publication 535 (2019): Business Expenses ," Page 5. Accessed May 26, 2020.

Internal Revenue Service. " Travel & Entertainment Expenses ," Page 3. Accessed May 26, 2020.

U.S. Department of Labor. " Travel Time ." Accessed May 26, 2020.

Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. " Travel Time ." Accessed May 26, 2020.

U.S. Office of Personnel Management. " Fact Sheet: Hours of Work for Travel ." Accessed May 26, 2020.

U.S. Department of Labor. " Fact Sheet #17D: Exemption for Professional Employees Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) ," Pages 1-3. Accessed May 26, 2020.

U.S. Department of Labor. " Fact Sheet #22: Hours Worked Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) ." Accessed May 26, 2020.

U.S. Department of Labor. " Opinion Letter FLSA 2018 ," Page 2. Accessed May 26, 2020.

U.S. Department of Labor. " Reimbursed Travel Expense Payments ," Page 1. Accessed May 26, 2020.

Internal Revenue Service. " Topic No. 511 Business Travel Expenses ." Accessed May 26, 2020.

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When Do Employers Have to Pay Employees for Travel Time?

Deanna deBara

For some small businesses, traveling to meet clients, make sales, and manage day-to-day activities is a must. For others, traveling is valuable for attending conferences, participating in networking events, or undergoing specialized training.

But if it's your employees doing the traveling, do you need to pay them for that time? Whatever your preferences are as a small business owner, the  legal  answer is: that depends.

Let's explore when you need to provide travel time pay for hourly employees, which employees are entitled to that pay, and, if they are entitled, how much you'll need to pay them. 

Who Is Entitled to Travel Pay?

All  non-exempt employees  are entitled to travel pay during normal work hours and when they are actively working outside of those hours. They aren't entitled to travel pay for doing their typical commute, according to the  Fair Labor Standards Act  (FLSA).

Non-exempt employees are typically paid an  hourly wage  and are paid less than $684 per week or $35,568 per year. 

These rules don't apply to exempt employees, and therefore it's up to you whether you want to pay them to travel.

What's more—your state may have some extra rules, so make sure to check your state's Department of Labor or Wage and Hour Division website.

When Do You Have to Provide Travel Time Pay for Hourly Employees?

But when, exactly, are these employees paid to travel? Compensable work time needs to be paid when employees travel:

• Locally: You need to pay employees when they travel locally as part of their regular duties (for example, from your office to a supply store). And if that travel happens outside of the employee's regular workday hours (even if they're only waiting to travel, like sitting at a bus stop or train station)? You still need to pay.
• Between worksites: Employees get travel pay when traveling between worksites. For example, a courier who transports materials between different job sites must be paid for the time spent traveling. Similarly, plumbers who travel between customers' homes are eligible for travel pay.
• For special one-day assignments: You must provide travel pay for hourly employees who travel out of town, even if they return home at the end of the workday—though you can deduct the employee's normal commute time from the total payment. For example, let's say an employee spends a total of two hours traveling to and from a work conference (which takes place during normal working hours). Because her typical daily commute takes 30 minutes, you would only need to pay for 1.5 hours of traveling (in addition to regular hourly wages).
• Overnight: Employees traveling overnight are due travel pay during their regular working hours and any time they spend working outside of those regular hours (for example, participating in late-night conference calls while on a train). You also need to pay employees for traveling during their regular working hours, even on non-working days, like weekends, holidays, or their normal days off.

Bonus tip : The best way to track travel time for your employees? Time tracking software like  Hourly . Workers clock in right from their phones, and the platform automatically tracks their location, hours and what project they're working on—which you can see in real-time. Another perk? You can run payroll with the click of a button.

How Much Do You Have to Pay Employees for Travel Time?

Employees traveling for work need to be paid at least the minimum wage, but they can be paid more or less than their normal pay rate.  

If you want to pay a different rate than an employee's hourly wage, you'll need to:

• Tell the employee they will be paid a different rate before they begin their trip.
• Make sure the hourly rate for travel pay doesn't cause the employee's total pay for all workable hours to  fall below minimum wage  (state, local or federal—whichever is highest) or result in incorrect overtime pay.
• Ensure that you're not violating their employment contract.

This gives you the flexibility to offer a higher rate of pay as an incentive for traveling outside of regular business hours—or, if you decide to pay less than their typical rate (but still minimum wage or above!), it can help make sure that paying for travel won't interrupt your cash flow or cause other financial concerns for your company.

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When Do You NOT Have to Provide Travel Time Pay for Hourly Employees?

Exempt employees—like outside salespeople, executives, managers, administrators, and even IT personnel—aren't entitled to travel pay. And non-exempt workers? They're  not eligible for travel pay  when they are:

• Commuting: An employee's commute—the time spent driving from their home to work (and from work to home)—doesn't qualify as travel time. This also includes the time spent driving from accommodations/lodging (like a hotel) to a work location, like a client's office or conference center.
• On break or during personal time : Non-exempt employees aren't entitled to travel pay during breaks (including meal periods and time spent sleeping) or when they can spend their time how they see fit. In other words, you don't need to pay for traveling during the time an employee can go shopping, sightseeing, or out to eat.
• Away from work and not working : Employees on overnight travel or business trips don't need to be paid outside of regular working hours  unless  they're working during that time period. For example, an employee who regularly works 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday only needs to be paid for traveling on a Saturday if they travel during their normal working hours (i.e., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.)—unless they're working  outside  of those hours too (like answering customer support emails or counting inventory).
• A passenger: You don't need to pay for travel when an employee is a passenger (in any sort of vehicle) and isn't doing work outside of regular work hours. The only exceptions occur when you  require  an employee to drive the vehicle or be actively engaged in working (like riding to a job site while handling customer calls or riding as a passenger in a client's vehicle).
• Choosing to drive themselves : If you offer to pay for an employee's travel method (like airfare, a bus ticket, or a train ticket) and the employee requests to drive instead, the employee is only entitled to travel pay while driving during their regular work hours. In other words, if an employee requests to drive themselves vs. taking public transit, you don't need to pay for travel outside of the employee's regular shift.

In other words, a non-exempt employee  isn't entitled to travel pay  unless they are driving, traveling during their normal working hours, or actively working while traveling.

Does Travel Time Count Towards Overtime?

Yes, travel time counts toward overtime, and you'd owe them 1.5 times their regular rate for any hours worked over 40 while they're traveling.

What if your pay rate for traveling is different from an employee's regular wages? Then it gets a little more complicated. 

In that case, you need to use the weighted average of the two overtime rates to get their final pay. Here's an example: 

Let's imagine one of your employees is pulling a 40-hour week at the office. Their rate? $15 per hour. So that gives them $600 for their regular workweek (that's 40 hours multiplied by $15 per hour). Now, during that same week, they also spent 8 hours traveling as overtime, for which you're paying them $11.25 per hour. This gives them an extra $90 (which is 8 hours multiplied by $11.25 per hour).

Add these together, and their total straight-time pay for the week is $690.

Now, to figure out their average rate for the week (including travel time and regular office time), you need to divide this total pay by their total hours worked. In this case, it's 48 hours in total (40 regular hours plus 8 overtime hours). So, $690 divided by 48 hours gives you a weighted average rate of $14.375 per hour.

But they've already been paid for all 48 hours at their respective rates, right? For the 8 hours of overtime, what you owe them is an extra half of that weighted average rate. That's what we call the "overtime premium." Half of $14.375 is about $7.19. So, the overtime pay would be 8 hours (overtime) times $7.19, which comes out to $57.52.

To get their final paycheck, you add this overtime pay to their straight-time pay. So, $690 (straight-time pay) plus $57.52 (overtime pay) equals $747.52. As a business owner, using the weighted average method to calculate the overtime rate, you'd be paying out $747.52 for this employee's week of work, including their overtime.

Additionally, if you pay for travel time that isn't  required  to be paid (like commuting), you  can't count them as hours worked  for overtime purposes.

Travel Time Pay Best Practices

Handling travel pay can be complex and difficult at first. But it doesn't have to be! Use these best practices to simplify paying your employees for working on the go.

Create a Travel Policy

If your small business sends employees to different locations, you need to establish a written travel policy—and include it in your employee handbook. 

Your travel policy should outline which situations result in compensable travel time (like attending conferences or visiting different job sites), as well as any exclusions where employees won't be compensated (like an employee's regular commute or traveling as a passenger on non-working days).

If you pay a different hourly rate for time spent traveling, make sure to include it in your policy. Then, have employees sign the policy to acknowledge they understand it and agree to its terms—and then add the signed document to their employee file.

Track Hours Traveled

As a small business owner, you need to track employee travel time to follow  labor laws  and make sure their paychecks are accurate. 

Though you can ask employees to record and document the time they spend traveling—which can help you make sure your records are accurate—the responsibility for doing so is ultimately on you.

Pay for or Reimburse Travel Expenses

The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) doesn't require you to pay for your employee's travel expenses.

Still, if you're sending your employees out of town, you  should  pay for the cost of travel—like tickets and lodging. 

If you don't, your employees are almost guaranteed to get frustrated that they have to pay for expenses out of pocket—and that frustration could lead to issues with employee engagement and retention.

When writing your travel policy, outline which travel expenses your company covers. If you expect employees to front some or all of the travel expenses, detail your procedure for requesting reimbursement and how to track expenses (like mileage or airfare).

You might also want to provide some form of  per diem  or stipend that helps employees pay for small travel expenses, like food. 

This can either be an allowance per meal period (like $15 for breakfast, $20 for lunch, and $40 for dinner) or a specific amount that the employee can use throughout the trip (like $50 per day or $150 for the weekend). Have your employees save and submit their receipts to avoid taxation. You can also consider a company card to lessen the burden on your team's bank account.

Check With Your State's Laws

In addition to federal law, some state laws apply additional regulations to travel time. This means rules can vary based on the state you operate in. For example,  compensable work time  in California includes riding as a passenger in a vehicle when traveling for work.

But which set of employment laws should you follow? You should apply the set of rules that provide the highest payment to your employees. So, if your state regulations specify that certain activities qualify as compensable—even if the FLSA does not—you need to pay for time spent traveling.

(For guidance about your state's specific laws and guidelines, contact your  state's Department of Labor  and local  Wage and Hour Division .)

FAQs About Travel Time Pay for Hourly Employees

Do remote/hybrid workers qualify for travel pay.

A  remote or hybrid worker  qualifies for travel pay when you require them to travel to your place of business or another venue (like a conference hall, training facility, or client location) and they:

• Live far away from the regular worksite (requiring an overnight stay or significant travel time)
• Are only expected to work on-site by request or on a day they're not normally required to be on-site

However, remote/hybrid workers  aren't  entitled to travel pay when:

• Your policy specifies that both an employee's home/remote office and your office are considered primary work locations
• They are expected to work on-location on certain days
• The time spent traveling to the office is considered an employee's commute (even if they are a remote or hybrid worker)

Do employees who drive/travel as part of their job qualify for travel pay?

The  FLSA requires  you to pay employees their regular hourly wages when they are driving or traveling as part of their job responsibilities. For example, bus or delivery drivers should be paid their regular wages while on the job.

Compensating Your Employees for Traveling Doesn't Need to Be Difficult

Traveling for business can take a toll—both on the road and off. Paying travel time for hourly employees can incentivize them to hit the road when necessary and make up for the time they spend away from their families and lives. 

Once you've determined which employees qualify for travel time pay, implement a clear travel policy (that adheres to state and federal law) and use management tools (like  Hourly !) to maintain accurate records and compensate your employees for time spent traveling.

How to Calculate the Final Paycheck for Salaried Employees

Benefits of the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC)

Employee Pay Adjustments: Reasons Why

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• Women's Initiative

Labor and Employment: FAQs About Employee Travel Time - Is It Compensable?

March 15, 2017

By: Jessica C. Moller

There are few things more confusing to employers than the nitty-gritty rules of what is and is not compensable time for non-exempt employees under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). There are also few things more costly to employers than when a mistake is made and a non-exempt employee is not paid for time he/she should have been paid for. With the continuous onslaught of FLSA lawsuits being filed every day, it is important for employers to be familiar with the rules that affect their obligation to pay non-exempt employees.

Here are some answers to common questions that are often asked with regard to the compensability of time non-exempt employees spend traveling in connection with work.

1. Do employees have to be paid for the time they spend commuting to work?

Ordinarily, travel from home to an employee’s regular place of work, or from work to home, does not count as "time worked." Once an employee’s work day ends, the time the employee spends traveling from his/her last job site to home is considered ordinary commuting time for which the employee will generally not be owed wages. If an employee has a regular work site, but he/she is required to report to a different work site on occasion, the time spent traveling from home to the different job site (or from the job site back home at the end of the work day) is also not compensable, as long as the different job site is within the same general locality as where the employee regularly works. For employees who do not have regular work sites and instead travel to different work sites each day, all home-to-work and work-to-home travel time is generally considered non-compensable commuting time, even if the distances traveled are long and the time spent commuting is substantial.

2. What if the employee uses a company car — do you have to pay for the employee’s commuting time then?

Generally, no. An employee’s home-to-work and work-to-home travel in a company-owned vehicle is not generally considered to be hours worked, as long as: (1) it is a vehicle of a type normally used for commuting; (2) the employee is able to use his/her normal route for the commute; (3) the employee does not incur any additional costs using the company vehicle; (4) the home-to-work and work-to-home travel is within the company’s normal commuting area; and (5) the use of the vehicle is subject to an agreement between the company and the employee.

3. Do you have to pay an employee for travel during the work day?

Once an employee arrives at his/her regular work site and begins work for the day, the employee’s travel during the course of the work day is compensable. For example, the time the employee spends traveling between two work sites will count as "time worked," just as will the time an employee spends traveling between other places for work-related reasons during his/her work day. Such travel time therefore is compensable as work time for both minimum wage and overtime purposes.

4. Do you have to pay an employee for time spent traveling on an overnight trip?

Whether or not travel in connection with overnight trips is compensable work time generally depends on when the travel occurs. If an employee goes on an overnight trip for work and the travel occurs outside of the employee’s regularly scheduled work hours, generally the travel time will not be deemed work time. If, however, the time the employee spends traveling is during his/her regular work hours, that travel time will generally count as "time worked" — even if the travel occurs on a day that the employee would not ordinarily have worked! For example, if an employee regularly works 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday to Friday, but travels for work from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Sunday, the employee would have to be paid for the hour from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. because that time overlaps with the hours during the days that the employee regularly works, even though Sunday is not a regular work day for that employee. The hours from 5:00 to 10:00 p.m. need not be paid because they are outside the hours that the employee regularly works. This rule may seem counterintuitive, but it what is currently required under the law.

5. Does it matter whether the employee uses public transportation or drives himself/herself for the overnight work trip?

Yes. If an employee uses public transportation to get to the distant location, whether or not the travel time is compensable will be determined as set forth in Question 4 above. If the employee is not offered the option of using public transportation and is required to drive himself or herself, the entire time spent driving is compensable. However, if an employee is offered the option of using public transportation and instead chooses to drive himself or herself to the distant location, the employer can count as compensable "work time" either the actual time spent driving or the hours that overlap with the employee’s regular work hours as set forth in Question 4 above.

Take the following scenario, for example. Employee A regularly works Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and has to travel from New York City to Syracuse for an overnight trip. The employer offers the employee the option of air travel, which would require the employee to take a flight departing New York City at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday and arriving in Syracuse at 5:05 p.m. that same day. The employee instead opts to drive the 5 hours from New York City very early on Monday morning instead of flying to Syracuse on Sunday. In this scenario, the employer has the option of paying the employee for either the one hour from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday since it overlaps with the employee’s regular work hours of 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., or the five hours the employee spends driving on Monday morning before his/her regular workday would otherwise begin.

6. Do you have to pay an employee for the entire time he/she is away on an overnight work trip?

If, while on an overnight trip for work, a non-exempt employee performs work outside of his/her regularly scheduled work hours, the time the employee spends doing that work will count as "time worked" and has to be compensated just as it would had the employee worked that time under ordinary circumstances. But time that the employee spends idly or on personal activities will not count as "time worked" and will not have to be compensated.

7. What about one-day work trips to a different city that do not require an overnight stay — do you have to pay an employee for the entire day?

Different rules apply when an employee usually works in a single location, but goes on a special one-day work trip to a different city than where he/she regularly works. In that circumstance, if the employee uses public transportation to get to the destination city, the employee does not have to be paid for time he/she spends commuting from home to the train station or airport (whichever applies), because that is considered to be the employee’s ordinary commuting time. But the employee does have to be paid for all of the time he/she spends at the airport or train station (yes, flight delays and the like will be deemed compensable), and actually traveling between the train station or airport to the other city, regardless of whether or not the travel occurs during the employee’s regular work hours. If the employee instead drives himself/herself to the destination city instead of taking public transportation, the time spent driving would be compensable as work time. If, however, the driving employee first drives to his/her regular work location before or after driving to the destination city, that home-to-work travel to the regular work location would be considered the employee’s ordinary commute and therefore non-compensable. Regardless of whether public transportation is used or the employee drives to the destination city for a one-day work trip, the time the employee spends for meal breaks (assuming he/she is not working during those breaks) and any idle time (i.e., time spent neither working nor traveling) outside of his/her regular work hours is not compensable and does not count as "time worked."

8. Are these rules the same under the FLSA and any state-specific wage and hour laws?

The wage and hour rules are not necessarily the same from state to state, so it is always important to be mindful of any state-specific laws that could affect an employer’s obligation to pay its non-exempt employees. For employers with operations in New York State, the New York State Department of Labor has indicated that it interprets the relevant New York Labor Law provisions and accompanying state regulations "in line" with the FLSA’s "travel time" rules, but that is not a guarantee that the state and federal laws will always be in congruity. It is always possible that the New York State Department of Labor could take an inconsistent position on a particular "travel time" issue, so it is important to always double check and not just assume that the federal rules apply.

If you have any questions about this Information Memo, please contact Jessica C. Moller , Jennifer B. Schoch , any of the attorneys in our Labor and Employment Law Practice , or the attorney in the firm with whom you are regularly in contact.

• Labor and Employment

DOL Explains When Employees Must Be Paid for Travel Time

Jul 6, 2018

Eighty years ago the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) established federal minimum wage and overtime requirements for hourly employees. The law’s basic tenet seems straightforward: Employers must pay employees for their “work.” Yet for many employers, compliance with the FLSA on issues such as employee travel time continues to be problematic because the FLSA does not really explain when an employee is at “work.”

The FLSA and Portal-to-Portal Act

The Supreme Court initially explained that “work” time means when an employee’s activities are controlled or required primarily for the benefit of the employer. Congress subsequently added some specifics to the Supreme Court’s expansive definition. The Portal-to-Portal Act, an amendment to the FLSA, provides that employee work time does not include:

(1) Travel to and from the actual place of performance of the principal activity the employee is employed to perform; or

(2) Activities that are undertaken before or after the employee’s principal work activity.

Three Scenarios and DOL’s Opinion Letter FLSA 2018-18

Recently, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) issued an opinion letter in response to a company’s questions about travel time pay for a group of hourly employees who repair, inspect and test construction cranes. The employees do not have a fixed work location; they travel to various customer locations each day. They usually work eight to twelve hour days servicing cranes, and generally start work at around 7:00 a.m. Depending on the availability of parts and other factors, the employees may need to stay in a hotel overnight and return in the morning to complete a job. Employees are provided company vehicles that may be used for both work and personal matters.

Three travel time scenarios were considered by the DOL:

(1) Employee travel time from home to the company’s office, using a company vehicle, to obtain a job itinerary and then continue on to various customer locations. Travel time from home to office varies from 15 minutes to an hour, depending on where the employee lives.

(2) Employee travel time from home directly to a customer location; and

(3) Employee travel time by plane on a Sunday from home to an out-of-state destination for a company training that begins at 8:00 a.m. on Monday. The training continues through Friday, with return travel home on Friday after class, or occasionally on Saturday, depending on flight availability.

The first two scenarios involve common commutes to and from work. Under the Portal-to-Portal Act, employees do not need to be paid for time spent commuting between home and work. This generally holds true, even when the employee travels directly from home to different job sites, unless the commute time involved is extraordinary. Once the employee has arrived at the job, however, FLSA regulations require payment for all travel time between job sites during the day. Use of a company-provided vehicle within the normal commuting area typically does not convert the employee’s ordinary commute into compensable work time.

Scenario three implicated how to account for employee travel time away from home, both on the weekend and overnight. Travel away from home is clearly worktime when it cuts across the employee’s usual work day; the employee is simply substituting travel for usual job duties. This also includes travel time on Saturday and Sunday that corresponds to the employee’s normal working hours on other days of the week. The DOL also noted that an employee must be paid for all time the employee is actually required to work while on travel, irrespective of whether or not it falls within the employee’s regular work day.

What Does this Mean to You?

Calculating employee travel time can pose a significant challenge for many employers. There are multiple factors you must take into account, even when an employee is traveling within his home territory. There are no bright lines to establish when an employee has strayed outside his normal commuting area, converting what would have been an unpaid commute into time on the clock. The FLSA requires employers to maintain accurate time records for employees; a failure to do so can result in significant statutory damages and attorneys’ fees.

If you find yourself facing such employee travel circumstances as described here, the employment law attorneys at Bean, Kinney & Korman can assist in evaluating your company’s particular environment and help craft a reasonable solution that will address the situation.

• R. Douglas Taylor, Jr.

Related Practices Areas

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GOBankingRates

12 Companies That Will Pay You To Go on Vacation

Posted: May 31, 2023 | Last updated: August 3, 2023

Taking time off to unplug has numerous benefits -- it can lower stress, improve your mental health and actually make you a more productive employee . Given the latter perk, it shouldn't be too surprising that some companies are going out of their way to incentivize employees to use their time off by actually helping to pay for their trips.

Next: Don't Book a Vacation on This Day of the Week Read: How To Build Your Savings From Scratch

FlexJobs has rounded up a list of companies that will help you pay for your vacation, so if you're looking to boost your vacation budget, consider taking a job at one of these places .

Airbnb states on its career page that "we want everyone to be healthy, travel often, get time to give back, and have the financial resources and support they need." Included in the company's benefits is an annual travel and experiences credit.

See: 10 Tips for Saving Money on Airfare This Spring Consider: 5 Best US Locations To Travel To on a $2,000 Budget

BambooHR, a human resources software company, offers a benefit that it calls "paid, paid vacation." As part of its vacation policy, the company will cover expenses like plane tickets, hotel rooms and other vacation-related items.

Next: 10 Small Towns Where You Should Buy Vacation Property

Calendly, a scheduling software company, gives its employees unlimited time off plus a $1,000 annual vacation stipend that can be used toward the cost of hotels, flights or rental car.

"It's our way of telling you to take time out from your work family to recharge and relax with those who are most important to you," the company states on its careers site.

Disruptive Advertising

Disruptive, a purpose-driven advertising agency, offers its employees unlimited time off as well as an annual vacation bonus.

Note-taking app Evernote offers its employees a $1,000 annual vacation stipend to encourage them to take time off to recharge.

Evolve Security

Security provider Evolve Security offers financial reimbursement for personal travel expenses once per year. In addition, the company gives employees plenty of time off -- employees get unlimited, flexible PTO, plus, the entire company closes for a week in the summer and another in winter. It also extends some holiday weekends from three to four days.

"We believe that really getting away from work is important for good mental health," said Sarah Thomas, director of people operations at Evolve Security, in a company blog post.

Find Out: Why Nobody Is Buying Vacation Homes Anymore

Expedia will not only help its employees score travel deals but also will assist with paying for their trips. The company offers a "wellness and travel reimbursement" to its U.S.-based employees.

FullContact

Identity Resolution Platform FullContact has an unlimited vacation policy and gives its employees an annual lump sum vacation bonus.

Philo, Inc.

Streaming platform Philo offers unlimited time off plus money for vacations.

"Philons are encouraged to take as much time as they need, and we offer an annual vacation bonus to sweeten the deal," the company states on its site.

Thirty Madison

Healthcare company Thirty Madison offers an annual $750 vacation stipend to full-time employees.

I'm a Self-Made Millionaire: These Are the 6 Investments Everyone Should Make During an Economic Downturn

Tripadvisor

Travel review site Tripadvisor provides its employees with a number of benefits, including a Global Lifestyle Benefit. According to the company's career site, "eligible employees receive a generous annual allowance to spend on fitness, travel, self-care and financial well-being services or products. Think: flights, hotels, spin classes, streaming subscriptions, a new home office setup."

United Airlines

United employees enjoy unlimited standby travel and discounted rates on airline tickets to anywhere the company flies.

Photo Disclaimer: Photos are for representational purposes only.

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The Best Traveling Nurse Services to Work for in 2024

The travel nursing agencies we recommend for your next short-term post

Traveling nurses often find working in different parts of the country, or even the world, exhilarating and fulfilling. Many agencies focus on matching registered nurses (RNs) with short-term working opportunities in a variety of healthcare specialties and settings across the United States and internationally. Healthcare facilities in the U.S. rely on travel nurses to meet the demand for nurses, which is expected to soar by 275,000 between 2020 and 2030.

"Being able to explore other healthcare systems and connect with other providers can help give a travel nurse new experiences and perspectives," says Rachel Norton , BSN, RN, a clinician support manager at Vivian Health , a national travel nurse hiring marketplace.  We reviewed more than 20 agencies and studied hundreds of reviews to create this list of the best travel nursing agencies. We considered factors such as company quality, customer service scores, company reputation, wage ranges, housing options, and benefits.

• Best Overall: Triage Staffing
• Best for Sick Pay: Aya Healthcare
• Best for Education: Travel Nurse Across America
• Best Customer Service: Axis Medical Staffing
• Best Track Record: FlexCare Medical Staffing
• Best Newcomer: Advantis Medical
• Best for Benefits: RN Network
• Best Recruiters: Host Healthcare
• Best for Recent Graduates: Fusion Medical Staff
• Best Job Board: TotalMed
• Our Top Picks

Triage Staffing

Aya Healthcare

Travel Nurse Across America

Axis Medical Staffing

FlexCare Medical Staffing

Advantis Medical

Host Healthcare

• Fusion Medical Staff
• See More (7)

Final Verdict

• Compare Providers
• Guide to Choosing

Best Overall : Triage Staffing

• Pay: Hourly wage paid weekly, overtime, bonuses, per diem
• Housing: Tax-free stipend or company-secured housing for 13 weeks
• Benefits: Health coverage, dental and vision coverage, life insurance, 401(k) with company match, vacation, education reimbursement
• Contracts nationwide: Yes

Triage Staffing tops our list because it provides a higher hourly wage and more frequent bonuses than its competitors. Additionally, the agency offers extensive perks, like tuition reimbursement and 401(k) on the first day.

Contracts available in all 50 states

Insurance available on first day

Paid by direct deposit each week

Dedicated support team available 24/7

Reports of poor weekend support for billing issues

Must have 2 years experience for most positions

Triage Staffing , founded in 2006, is considered by industry professionals as one of the most well-rounded travel nurse agencies among the companies listed here and in general. The company was recognized in 2023 by Inc. Magazine and Staffing Industry Analysts (SIA).

The company, which currently has about 1,500 employees, is based in Omaha, Nebraska, and has an impressive rating on Glassdoor .

Triage Staffing specializes in helping nurses and healthcare professionals find 13-week assignments across the U.S. The company strives for transparency and "to build relationships deeper than simple business transactions." Those who are hired are paid weekly (based on an hourly wage) via direct deposit.

The benefits package includes a wage, overtime, bonuses, per diems, and a housing stipend. Triage will also help its travel nurses find housing, if that's their preference. Health insurance is provided by Blue Cross Blue Shield, and those hired get dental insurance, vacation time, and a 401(k) plan.

Best for Sick Pay : Aya Healthcare

• Pay: Hourly wage, overtime, bonuses, per diem, stipends when called off
• Housing: Tax-free stipend or company-secured housing
• Benefits: Health, dental, and vision coverage; life insurance; 401(k) with company match; sick pay; wellness and fitness programs; employee assistance programs; tuition reimbursement; loan forgiveness options

Of the many benefits Aya Healthcare offers, one makes it stand out from other agencies: providing sick pay should you become ill during an assignment. You can rest assured knowing if you get sick, Aya will support you through recovery.

Benefits include sick pay (after 90 days)

Offers local and nationwide travel assignments

Requires only 1 year of experience

Insurance coverage for you and your dependents from day 1

Complaints about communication during recruitment

Large agency size might be challenging

401k eligibility begins after 4 consecutive months of work or 1 year after hiring

Aya Healthcare is one of the most talked-about travel nursing agencies around, literally. A 2017 independent study analyzed the frequency of top travel nursing companies mentioned by users on social media sites. The study concluded Aya Healthcare is the most frequently referenced in user comments.

Aya Healthcare is also one of the only travel nursing agencies that have sick pay, which begins accruing on the first day of an assignment. Nurses can earn one hour for every 30 hours worked, but it can't be used until after at least 90 days after their start date.

In addition to its rare sick pay policy, the company boasts comprehensive benefits. Travel nurses working for Aya Healthcare can start contributing to a company-matched 401k plan after four consecutive months of work for the agency, or one year after their hiring date. It also promises to cover or reimburse nurses for the cost of licensure and help them navigate and expedite the process in the states where they are assigned. Aya Healthcare offers discounts, wellness, and nutrition plans in addition to its medical, vision, and dental benefits, which are available to nurses (and their spouses and children) from their first day with the company.

Aya Healthcare has a strong online presence, including a blog and active social media accounts on nearly every contemporary platform. Its website proudly displays several company awards and accolades, including the Joint Commission's Golden Seal of Approval. The agency has placed thousands of travel nurses and allied workers nationwide and offers a program for  travel nursing from Canada .

Best for Education : Travel Nurse Across America

• Pay: Hourly wage paid weekly, overtime, bonuses, per diem (guaranteed)
• Benefits: Health, dental, and vision coverage; liability insurance; 401(k) with company match; sick pay; travel reimbursement; free continuing education; mental health resources; employee assistance program; chaplain assistance program

Travel Nurse Across America (TNAA) offers comprehensive benefits; however, its continuing education programs are what really sets the agency apart. Thanks to a partnership with Aspen University, the agency helps you earn your BSN with tuition reimbursement upon completion.

RN to BSN tuition reimbursement

RN specialty exam/recertification reimbursements

Insurance coverage available on first day

Offers free mental health resources

Per diem guarantee

Unable to see pay rates on the site

Large agency size might feel less supportive

Travel Nurse Across America (TNAA) had the highest average score when analyzing the top 10 travel nurse agency lists across several well-known sites.

Founded in 1999 in North Little Rock, Arkansas, this company was present on three "Top 10" lists in 2019, a notable feat that speaks to its history of satisfaction. According to BluePipes, TNAA was among the top 10 travel nursing agencies, one of the biggest (in terms of company size) on its 2022 list.  

TNAA uses a full-team approach to assist travelers, with specialty staff equipped to handle a variety of needs, including housing experts and clinical leadership, This agency also offers a wide array of benefits, such as low census pay, tuition reimbursement, and paid licensure fees prior to travel. Overtime is included in the payment for any extra hours worked and in every state, paid sick leave starts to accrue from day one.

TNAA also partnered with Aspen University, so individuals can get their Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 12 months. Upon completion, TNAA will even reimburse tuition expenses. It also offers reimbursements for recertification fees to certain eligible nurses.

Best Customer Service : Axis Medical Staffing

• Benefits: Health, dental, and vision coverage; 401(k) with company match; state license reimbursement; transportation stipends; continuing education

With around-the-clock support 365 days a year, Axis Medical Staffing has one of the best customer service reputations in the industry. It offers a wide array of benefits, including healthcare coverage and company-matched 401(k) plans.

Dedicated support team available 24/7/365

Wide variety of specialty contracts

Offers company matching 401(k) with immediate vesting

Can submit questions to real travel nurses

Provides quick email responses

Pays for housing and assists in securing it

Not transparent about pay rates

Doesn't include paid sick leave in benefits

User reviews for Axis remain the highest on this list. Formed in Seattle, Washington, in 2004, Axis provides several coveted benefits, including payment of paid personalized housing options (with pet deposit costs covered by the agency), as well as immediate vesting in its company-matched 401(k) plan.

This agency regularly features a new  Traveler of the Month nurse on its blog. Additionally, the Axis website has a page dedicated to Ask an Axis Travel Nurse , which features an easy submission form where a nurse can answer all your questions.

This encouraging way of connecting can provide novice or even seasoned travelers with a trusted source in the form of a nursing peer who has traveled with this specific agency several times, instead of hosting an impersonal message board. Axis also offers a live chat feature that's easily accessible on the homepage. These features earned Axis the top spot on BluePipes Best Travel Nursing Companies list in 2022.

Axis promises reimbursements and benefits similar to other companies, but it is not immediately clear from the company's website whether it offers paid sick leave.

Best Track Record : FlexCare Medical Staffing

• Benefits: Health coverage, dental and vision coverage, 401(k) with company match, state license reimbursement, transportation stipends, meals and incidentals stipend, rental car, travel reimbursement, continuing education, license reimbursement

Boasting more than 50 industry awards, including BluePipes’s 2022 Best Travel Nursing Companies list, FlexCare Medical Staffing has a track record of exceeding expectations and fulfilling its promises to traveling nurses.

Award-winning, highly reputable agency

Single point of contact for all your needs

Outstanding benefits

Features a referral program

Have to make an account to view wages

BluePipes refers to FlexCare Medical Staffing as the "most decorated travel nursing agency of all time," with more than 1,727 reviews reported. This agency obtained a gold finish on Travel Nursing Central’s 2019 list of top travel nursing companies and has consistently placed since 2014. FlexCare has also been on the Highway Hypodermics list since 2011.

FlexCare’s website touts its  Premier Traveler Access program, offering prospective travel nurses the opportunity to unlock and view pay ranges for a wide variety of open jobs, in addition to personalized alerts via text and email. This agency explains its mission to support travelers by providing a single recruiter who is able to meet every need (termed “S1NGLEPOINT” on the website) and help simplify the entire process.

This one point of contact can advocate for the traveler, assist in searching for jobs and housing, provide a transparent and competitive salary rate, as well as ensure timely payment.

Best Newcomer : Advantis Medical

• Benefits: Health coverage, dental and vision coverage, 401(k) without company match, transportation stipends, partial license reimbursement

Advantis Medical has a nurse care team available to help you every step of the way—from setting up your profile and walking you through the onboarding process to helping you find your next assignment—making it an excellent choice for those just starting out.

Excellent reviews from its travel clinicians

Quick response times from trained care team

Has a great reputation in the industry

Site offers several communication methods

Site lacks information on benefits package

No company match for 401(k)

Founded in 2018 as a subsidiary of Advantis Global, Advantis Medical's user reviews are limited in number but are glowing regarding people's experiences with the company.

Advantis Medical recruits travel nurses and places them in top institutions across the United States. The agency offers client connections with hospitals, outpatient clinics, same-day ambulatory surgical centers, as well as skilled nursing facilities.

Advantis Medical’s specialization opportunities include placements in divisions like medical-surgical (M/S), emergency department (ED), intensive care unit (ICU), labor & delivery (L&D), and more. Its benefits include highly competitive compensation packages, direct deposit available from day one, assistance with housing options, health insurance (medical, dental, vision), and a 401(k) option.

The agency also has payment incentives for referrals. To make the process as seamless as possible, Advantis Medical has a one-minute application form which could not be any easier, especially for a traveling nurse who is always on the go.

Best for Benefits : RN Network

• Benefits: Health, dental, and vision coverage; life insurance; employee assistance program; Sanvello membership; Talkspace membership; Teladoc access; credentialing assistance; continuing education; traditional and Roth 401(k); travel reimbursement; loyalty program

RN Network provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes day-one health insurance and 401(k) options, plus additional perks like access to virtual therapy and medical care.

24/7 clinical support

Transparent about pay rate

Provides access to virtual therapy and medical care

Weekly pay via direct deposit

Completion, extension, and referral bonuses

No paid time off

Complaints of lower-paying contracts

Founded in 1998, RN Network has over two decades of experience in the travel nursing industry. Its experience shows in the company's user reviews, many of which highlight its great communication, support, and benefits.

The agency provides an impressive benefits package that includes day-one health insurance with a zero-premium option, as well as a 401(k) with company match, both traditional and Roth options. RN Network also offers access to Talkspace, Teladoc, and Sanvello's mental health app—ensuring its healthcare professionals have the mental health resources they need while on assignment.

Available contracts and pay rates are transparent on their user-friendly website, which can be a rarity in the industry. The company hires RNs, LPNs/LVNs, PCTs, and surgical techs for a variety of specialties throughout the country. Only one year of clinical experience is required, and the company offers a comprehensive onboarding program to help simplify the transition.

Best Recruiters : Host Healthcare

• Pay: Hourly wage paid weekly, plus overtime, bonuses, per diem, COVID quarantine pay
• Benefits: Health, dental, and vision coverage, life insurance; 401(k) with company match; travel reimbursement

Host Healthcare recruiters are some of the best in the business, according to clinician reviews. With exceptional customer service , the company strives to make the job hunt and placement process as smooth as possible for its candidates.

Excellent customer service

Straightforward job hunt and placement process

Offers a variety of housing options, including pet-friendly

24/7 support via multiple channels

COVID-19 quarantine pay available

Can’t view facility or pay without an account

Site lacks information on reimbursement offers

Founded in 2012, Host Healthcare is a travel healthcare staffing agency that works with some of the nation's top facilities. The company has earned multiple awards over the years, including being named one of the Top Travel Nursing Companies by BluePipes.

What sets Host Healthcare apart from other agencies are its recruiters, who are consistently praised by clinicians for their exceptional customer service. In reviews, nurses rave about their recruiters being responsive, receptive, and thorough in their onboarding and placement processes. The company also offers a variety of housing options, including pet-friendly ones, to ensure you have a comfortable place to call home while on assignment.

In addition to its comprehensive benefits package, which includes health insurance, dental, and vision coverage, Host Healthcare also offers a 401(k) with company match and COVID-19 quarantine pay. If your facility quarantines you due to possible COVID-19 exposure, the company will compensate you for the duration of your time off work.

One drawback is that the company requires users to sign up for an account before viewing facilities and estimated weekly pay . However, it hires across multiple specialties and licensure types, including nursing professionals, therapy professionals, and other allied health professionals.

Best for Recent Graduates : Fusion Medical Staff

• Pay: Hourly wage paid weekly, plus overtime, per diem, and bonuses
• Benefits: Health coverage, dental and vision coverage, life insurance, 401(k) with company match, short-term disability, travel and transportation per diem

Fusion Medical offers competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and transparent information about opportunities, and welcomes new graduates to sign up.

Transparent information for each job posting

Nationwide network

Attentive recruiters

Competitive pay and benefits

Open to new graduates

Per diem reimbursements may be less convenient for expenses like travel

Past complaints from LGBTQIA employees

Fusion Medical Staffing urges applicants to "choose your own adventure." With thousands of travel nursing positions across the U.S. available on its website, Fusion will definitely give you a lot to choose from.

Founded in 2009 in Omaha, Nebraska, Fusion doubled its size by 2016. The company racked up awards from Inc., People, and Staffing Industry Analysts for being among the best places to work and is rated 4.7 out of 5 on Indeed.com .

Assignments through Fusion Medical typically run 13 to 26 weeks and are available across a broad spectrum of nursing specialties. We particularly like how transparent the pay, terms, and benefits for each opportunity are on Fusion's website.

But what really makes the company stand out is its recruitment. Fusion offers 24/7 support and many of its travel nurses rave about their attentive recruiters. Fusion has a new graduate traveling medical job program recruiting nurses who have just finished training. Most travel nursing agencies require at least two years of experience, so Fusion may be a great choice if you're about to finish school and eager to see the country or aren't sure of where you want to call home yet.

Of note: Some LGBTQIA+ travelers and employees have complained of inclusivity issues and unsupportive leadership. In 2021, the company published a blog post about forming an oversight group dedicated to LGBTQIA+ inclusivity and support and alluded to its efforts to "grow" and "learn."

Best Job Board : TotalMed

• Pay: Hourly wage paid weekly, plus overtime, bonuses, and guaranteed hours
• Housing: Company-provided housing or stipend
• Benefits: Health insurance, dental and vision coverage, life insurance, 401(k) with company match, short-term disability up to 12 weeks plus up to 60% of monthly earnings

TotalMed is one of the biggest agencies in the business and has the job board to match. The company is known for making it easy for travel nurses to quickly find a new post in any state.

Large, well-connected agency with huge job board

Solid day-one benefits

Flexible housing options

Pay guaranteed

Generous short-term disability policy

Some nurses complain of long onboarding process

Pay is competitive, but perhaps not the highest of any agency

Focus on placing nurses in areas of urgent need

Few travel nursing agencies have a job board as full as TotalMed 's. The company leverages its wide network of partner hospital systems to offer nurses a plethora of assignments to choose from.

TotalMed prides itself on placing nurses and other medical workers in new postings quickly and prioritizes assigning workers to places urgently in need of additional staff. It offers a standard array of benefits, plus a pay guarantee and a generous short-term disability policy that covers up to 12 weeks of injury or illness with up to 60% of your pay.

Some travel nurses have complained of a protracted onboarding process, but once the initial paperwork is out of the way, most seem very happy with the company's efficiency and the quality of its recruiters. Its pay may not always be the highest of any agency, but travel nurses working with TotalMed still enjoy the benefit of payment guarantees and the confidence that a new job will almost always be available, and fast. TotalMed also goes a long way to smooth out the transition process by organizing and covering the cost of any licensing and certifications its travel nurses may need, as well as offering reimbursement for pesky costs like new scrubs.

Even though some agencies on our list require account registration to access pay rates, each one offers competitive benefits and wages. Triage Staffing is our choice for best overall travel nursing agency because of its positive reviews, superior customer service, and competitive wages. Day one 401(k) and tuition reimbursement are just a few ways it provides long-term support for travelers. 

Compare the Best Travel Nursing Agencies

Guide to choosing the best travel nursing agencies.

Travel nursing agencies are  staffing agencies  that place registered nurses and healthcare professionals in hospitals and clinics with short-term staffing needs. They often send individuals to national or international locations where there are nursing shortages.

Here are a few tips for choosing the best travel nursing agency to meet your needs.

Is a Travel Nursing Agency Right for You?

There are many advantages to working with a travel nursing agency in addition to the obvious benefit of being able to travel and explore new places. Some of the other advantages of working with a travel nursing agency include:

• Competitive pay: Travel nursing agencies offer competitive pay rates that are often higher than what you would make as a staff nurse and recruiters can help you find lucrative positions.
• Benefits : Health insurance, retirement plans, and other benefits are typically included in a travel nursing agency's compensation package.
• Housing: Travel nursing agencies often provide housing or help nurses find housing in their assignment location.
• Specialty assignments based on nursing field: Agencies can help place you in an assignment that matches your specialty, interests, and skills . Some facilities accept travelers into new specialties or a float pool that covers multiple units, as long as they have prior travel nursing experience. This is an added bonus for those who wish to explore new areas of nursing.
• Flexibility: Agencies offer a variety of assignment lengths and locations, so you can choose an assignment that fits your lifestyle.
• Perks and discounts : Free or reduced-cost continuing education courses, travel expenses, gym memberships, completion bonuses, and other perks are often available through travel nursing agencies.

How to Choose a Travel Nurse Agency

Consider the following when choosing a travel nursing agency:

• Average pay rates: Pay rate varies by agency, location, and assignment. Travel nurses often work with multiple agencies at the same time to find the best assignments and pay rates.
• Benefits package: Make sure the agency's benefits are comprehensive and meet your needs. Benefits may include health coverage , dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, 401K, vacation time, and education reimbursement.
• Housing options: Determine if the agency provides housing or assists with finding housing. Some nurses prefer to find their own housing, while others prefer the convenience of having the agency secure housing for them.
• Reputation: Check out online reviews and ratings to get an idea of the agency's reputation. Talking to other travel nurses who have worked with the agency is also a good way to get first-hand information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which travel nurses are most in demand.

Staffing agencies report that demand is high for critical care and medical-surgical nurses. Emergency room staff and labor and delivery staff are also in great demand.

Do Travel Nursing Agencies Pay for Housing?

Your agency will either have housing available for you or will reimburse you for your housing expenses. If you choose to secure your own housing, most agencies will give you a stipend to help offset the cost of rent and utilities. Talk with your agency recruiter about your housing options and what will work best for you.

How Long Are Travel Nursing Assignments?

Some travel nursing opportunities can be as short as eight weeks, while others can last for up to six months at a time. There are often options and offers to extend assignments, too.

What Experience Do You Need to Be Recruited by a Travel Nursing Agency?

Most agencies require new travelers to have recent experience as a nurse—meaning you can't become a travel nurse right out of nursing school. A year or two of experience is commonly required. A qualified nurse may also need more experience to work in the intensive care unit (ICU) or another specialty area.

Can Travel Nurses Choose Where They Work?

Yes, and that's generally a benefit of the job. Some agencies work to assign candidates throughout the United States, while others place travel nurses internationally. Before deciding to work with an agency, it makes sense to find out where they place travel nurses if you have a specific placement location in mind.

Trains Moscow to Elektrostal: Times, Prices and Tickets

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• Seasonality
• Accommodations

Moscow to Elektrostal by train

The journey from Moscow to Elektrostal by train is 32.44 mi and takes 2 hr 7 min. There are 71 connections per day, with the first departure at 12:15 AM and the last at 11:46 PM. It is possible to travel from Moscow to Elektrostal by train for as little as or as much as . The best price for this journey is .

Get from Moscow to Elektrostal with Virail

Virail's search tool will provide you with the options you need when you want to go from Moscow to Elektrostal. All you need to do is enter the dates of your planned journey, and let us take care of everything else. Our engine does the hard work, searching through thousands of routes offered by our trusted travel partners to show you options for traveling by train, bus, plane, or carpool. You can filter the results to suit your needs. There are a number of filtering options, including price, one-way or round trip, departure or arrival time, duration of journey, or number of connections. Soon you'll find the best choice for your journey. When you're ready, Virail will transfer you to the provider's website to complete the booking. No matter where you're going, get there with Virail.

How can I find the cheapest train tickets to get from Moscow to Elektrostal?

Prices will vary when you travel from Moscow to Elektrostal. On average, though, you'll pay about for a train ticket. You can find train tickets for prices as low as , but it may require some flexibility with your travel plans. If you're looking for a low price, you may need to prepare to spend more time in transit. You can also often find cheaper train tickets at particular times of day, or on certain days of the week. Of course, ticket prices often change during the year, too; expect to pay more in peak season. For the lowest prices, it's usually best to make your reservation in advance. Be careful, though, as many providers do not offer refunds or exchanges on their cheapest train tickets. Unfortunately, no price was found for your trip from Moscow to Elektrostal. Selecting a new departure or arrival city, without dramatically changing your itinerary could help you find price results. Prices will vary when you travel from Moscow to Elektrostal. On average, though, you'll pay about for a train ticket. If you're looking for a low price, you may need to prepare to spend more time in transit. You can also often find cheaper train tickets at particular times of day, or on certain days of the week. Of course, ticket prices often change during the year, too; expect to pay more in peak season. For the lowest prices, it's usually best to make your reservation in advance. Be careful, though, as many providers do not offer refunds or exchanges on their cheapest train tickets.

How long does it take to get from Moscow to Elektrostal by train?

The journey between Moscow and Elektrostal by train is approximately 32.44 mi. It will take you more or less 2 hr 7 min to complete this journey. This average figure does not take into account any delays that might arise on your route in exceptional circumstances. If you are planning to make a connection or operating on a tight schedule, give yourself plenty of time. The distance between Moscow and Elektrostal is around 32.44 mi. Depending on the exact route and provider you travel with, your journey time can vary. On average, this journey will take approximately 2 hr 7 min. However, the fastest routes between Moscow and Elektrostal take 1 hr 3 min. If a fast journey is a priority for you when traveling, look out for express services that may get you there faster. Some flexibility may be necessary when booking. Often, these services only leave at particular times of day - or even on certain days of the week. You may also find a faster journey by taking an indirect route and connecting in another station along the way.

How many journeys from Moscow to Elektrostal are there every day?

On average, there are 71 daily departures from Moscow to Elektrostal. However, there may be more or less on different days. Providers' timetables can change on certain days of the week or public holidays, and many also vary at particular times of year. Some providers change their schedules during the summer season, for example. At very busy times, there may be up to departures each day. The providers that travel along this route include , and each operates according to their own specific schedules. As a traveler, you may prefer a direct journey, or you may not mind making changes and connections. If you have heavy suitcases, a direct journey could be best; otherwise, you might be able to save money and enjoy more flexibility by making a change along the way. Every day, there are an average of 18 departures from Moscow which travel directly to Elektrostal. There are 53 journeys with one change or more. Unfortunately, no connection was found for your trip from Moscow to Elektrostal. Selecting a new departure or arrival city, without dramatically changing your itinerary could help you find connections.

Book in advance and save

If you're looking for the best deal for your trip from Moscow to Elektrostal, booking train tickets in advance is a great way to save money, but keep in mind that advance tickets are usually not available until 3 months before your travel date.

Stay flexible with your travel time and explore off-peak journeys

Planning your trips around off-peak travel times not only means that you'll be able to avoid the crowds, but can also end up saving you money. Being flexible with your schedule and considering alternative routes or times will significantly impact the amount of money you spend on getting from Moscow to Elektrostal.

Always check special offers

Checking on the latest deals can help save a lot of money, making it worth taking the time to browse and compare prices. So make sure you get the best deal on your ticket and take advantage of special fares for children, youth and seniors as well as discounts for groups.

Unlock the potential of slower trains or connecting trains

If you're planning a trip with some flexible time, why not opt for the scenic route? Taking slower trains or connecting trains that make more stops may save you money on your ticket – definitely worth considering if it fits in your schedule.

Best time to book cheap train tickets from Moscow to Elektrostal

The cheapest Moscow - Elektrostal train tickets can be found for as low as $35.01 if you’re lucky, or $54.00 on average. The most expensive ticket can cost as much as $77.49.

Find the best day to travel to Elektrostal by train

When travelling to Elektrostal by train, if you want to avoid crowds you can check how frequently our customers are travelling in the next 30-days using the graph below. On average, the peak hours to travel are between 6:30am and 9am in the morning, or between 4pm and 7pm in the evening. Please keep this in mind when travelling to your point of departure as you may need some extra time to arrive, particularly in big cities!

Moscow to Elektrostal CO2 Emissions by Train

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Here's who could be responsible for paying for the Baltimore bridge disaster

• The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore collapsed after a container ship collided with it.
• Several entities could be on the hook to foot the bill in the aftermath of the disaster.
• The maritime insurance industry will likely be saddled with the highest costs. 

The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore collapsed on Tuesday after a large container ship ran into it, leading to six presumed deaths and millions of dollars in possible damage.

It's still too early to estimate the total economic impact of the disaster, but between the cost of rebuilding the decades-old bridge, compensating the victims' families , and paying out damages for disruptions to the supply chain, the eventual cost of the disaster is expected to be significant.

Who will pay to rebuild the bridge?

President Joe Biden said on Tuesday the federal government should be responsible for paying to reconstruct the damaged Francis Scott Key Bridge.

"It is my intention that the federal government will pay for the entire cost of reconstructing that bridge, and I expect Congress to support my effort," Biden said.

The bridge was built in the 1970s for about $60 million, but the cost of rebuilding it could be 10 times its original price tag, an engineering expert told Sky News. 

Baltimore is among the busiest ports in the nation , with more than a million shipping containers passing through each year. The collapse — which closed the port to all maritime and most road traffic until further notice — is already beginning to wreak havoc on the supply chain.

The cost of building the bridge back fast enough to offset diversions as much as possible could saddle the government with a more than $600 million bill, David MacKenzie, the chair of the engineering and architecture consultancy COWIfonden, told Sky News.

Who will pay for damages to the ship and its cargo?

The container ship, the Dali , is owned by a Singapore-based firm. The ship's charterer, Maersk, confirmed to Business Insider that vessel company Synergy Group operates the ship. 

However, the companies with cargo aboard the Dali could ultimately be responsible for some of the ship's damages and cargo costs, according to Ryan Petersen , the CEO of the supply-chain-logistics company Flexport, which had two containers on the ship.

Related stories

The Dali was carrying 330 containers that must now be rerouted, Petersen said in an X thread.

An ancient maritime law known as " general average " dictates that companies with even a single container aboard a ship split certain damages pro rata based on the number of containers they had on board, ensuring all the stakeholders benefiting from the voyage are splitting the risk, Petersen said.

General average situations can occur when a ship is stranded or when cargo is damaged or thrown overboard to save the vessel, according to Flexport . The concept helps ensure that all parties who have a vested interest in the vessel share the cost and concern of protecting it.

It's too soon to know whether damages incurred to free the Dali in the coming days will qualify as a case of general average.

Who will pay for everything else?

The majority of the financial fallout is likely to lay primarily with the insurance industry, according to media reports.

Industry experts told the Financial Times that insurers could pay out losses for bridge damage, port disruption, and any loss of life.

The collapse could drive "one of the largest claims ever to hit the marine (re)insurance market," John Miklus, the president of the American Institute of Marine Underwriters, told Insurance Business.

He told the outlet that the loss of revenue from tolls while the bridge is being rebuilt will be expensive, as will any liability claims from deaths or injuries.

The Dali is covered by the Britannia Steam Ship Insurance Association Ltd., known as Britannia P&I Club, according to S&P Global Market Intelligence.

In a statement to Business Insider, Britannia said it was "working closely with the ship manager and relevant authorities to establish the facts and to help ensure that this situation is dealt with quickly and professionally."

Britannia is one of 12 mutual insurers included in the International Group of P&I Clubs, which maintains more than $3 billion of reinsurance cover, sources familiar with the matter told Insurance Business.

Britannia itself is liable for the first $10 million in damages, both FT and Insurance Business reported. Whatever remains is dealt with by the wider mutual insurance group and Lloyd's of London, a reinsurance market in the UK, the FT reported.

Update: March 28, 2024 — This story has been updated to include additional information about general average and clarify that it is too soon to know whether general average will apply in the case of the Dali.

Watch: The container ship that destroyed the Francis Scott Key Bridge has crashed before

• Main content

Money blog: Popular pub chain owner admits 'uncertainty' over future

The owner of Slug & Lettuce and Yates's bars has revealed concern over its future as it looks to refinance more than £2bn of debt. Read this and the rest of today's consumer and personal finance news in the Money blog, and listen to the latest Ian King Business Podcast as you scroll.

Tuesday 9 April 2024 19:48, UK

• Basically... Tax codes
• Popular pub chain owner admits 'uncertainty' over future
• Spain to scrap 'golden visa' scheme for non-EU citizens in blow to British emigrants
• Tories have stolen key Labour pledge - so how will they pay for promises now?
• Shell, the biggest company on the London Stock Exchange, looking at leaving for New York
• Money Problem : The monthly charge on my leasehold flat has gone up by more than £60 a month - what are my rights?
• Listen to the Ian King Business Podcast above and tap here to follow wherever you get your podcasts

Sky News is looking to speak with residents of shared ownership properties who have been impacted by rising service charges. 

Please reach out if you have been affected and are willing to tell us about your experience.  

Send us a message on WhatsApp or email [email protected] .

High mortgage costs have led a large chunk of UK homeowners to rent out their rooms in a bid to raise more cash.

More than one in 10 (12%) of people who own property in London have moved someone into their home to create additional income, according to a new report from Barclays.

The figure reveals the impact of the capital's soaring housing costs - across the UK as a whole, the proportion of people renting out rooms stands at 3%.

The Barclays report also reveals that 16% of people aren't confident they'll be able to meet their mortgage or rental payments.

Cost of living pressures and higher interest rates have taken a toll on borrowers in the past couple of years.

Last month we reported how there had been a jump in the number of properties falling behind with mortgage payments.

The owner of Slug & Lettuce and Yates's bars has revealed concern over its future as it looks to refinance more than £2bn in debts due next year, The Telegraph reports .

Stonegate - the UK's biggest pub operator with 4,500 venues - said in its interim report that a "material uncertainty exists" over whether it can continue as a going concern (a term meaning a business has financial stability).

If the company is unable to refinance its debts, it said it "may be unable to realise its assets and discharge its liabilities in the normal course of business".

Stonegate is owned by the private equity firm TDR Capital, which jointly owns Asda.

It also runs the Be At One and Popworld chains and the Craft Union pub brand.

At the end of the financial year, its debts were more than £3bn.

Some of this is linked to its buyout of rival pub chain Ei Group in 2019.

David McDowall, chief executive of Stonegate, struck a more upbeat note in comments to the Money blog, saying: "I am really pleased with the performance of the business in 2023, which included a sector-leading Christmas trading period. 

"We have delivered a rise in revenue and a significant increase in profitability. Our all-round performance exemplifies the strength and depth of the Stonegate estate, with our outstanding Craft Union and L&T divisions continuing to lead the way. This is testament to the hard work of our people and partners, but also to the success of our ongoing initiatives to increase profitability across our portfolio of brands and venue formats. 

"Our performance gives me real confidence in the future and excitement in seeing our strategy come to fruition. Notably our asset optimisation plan which makes sure we have the right pub in the right location, further profit improvement initiatives, and above all our efforts to continue to support the Great British pub. 

"With a summer of sport on the horizon, and the Euro's and T20 World Cup fast approaching, we are looking forward to building on this momentum in the months ahead. We have been very clear that we continue to work towards achieving our long-term balance sheet goals, with the successful refinancing of a portion of our estate in December marking a significant strategic step towards this."

A record number of council bosses are earning salaries of at least £150,000 , according to new data from a pressure group.

The Taxpayers' Alliance annual Town Hall Rich List says at least 3,106 people employed in local authorities in 2022-23 received at least £100,000 - an increase of 347 on the previous year.

Of them, at least 829 received more than £150,000, the highest number since the list began in 2007.

John O'Connell, chief executive of the TPA, said residents "can use these figures to ask whether precious funds are really going towards frontline services, or whether town hall bosses can get better value for money".

M&S is investing £1m to change the diet of its milk-producing herd of cows and reduce the amount of methane they create.

The supermarket chain said it would work with 40 M&S dairy farmers to remove a projected 11,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions from the atmosphere annually.

The move will cut the carbon footprint of M&S's fresh milk products by 8.4%, the company said.

Britons are being urged to "stop and think" before dipping into their retirement pot early during "peak" withdrawals season over the next few months.

Investment platform AJ Bell said people typically access their funds at the start of the tax year when allowances are refreshed.

Its director of public policy, Tom Selby, said this can be a "perfectly sensible thing to do" if there is a "thought-through withdrawal plan" in place.

However, he warned Britons not to make a "rash decision".

"Taking money out of your retirement pot early or withdrawing too much, too soon could have disastrous consequences over the long term," he said.

AJ Bell has listed five reasons why people should "stop and think" before accessing their retirement pot early:

• Early access increases the risk of running out of money in retirement and being left to rely solely on the state pension. For example, a healthy 55-year-old with a £100,000 pension pot who withdraws £5,000 a year could run out of funds by age 80 if their withdrawals increase with inflation;
• Accessing retirement cash early could also see savers miss out on investment growth;
• It will trigger the money purchase annual allowance (MPAA), which significantly reduces the amount you can save tax-free from £60,000 to £10,000;
• Hiking withdrawals could impact sustainability. Persistent high inflation could impact those with a laid-out withdrawal plan and risk them running out of funds early;
• Savers can pass on leftover pensions tax free if they die before the age of 75. AJ Bell says for those who wants to leave assets to loved ones, it makes sense to leave as much of your pension untouched as possible in order to minimise your tax bill.

Basically, a tax code is a series of numbers and letters used by employers or pension providers to work out how much tax should be deducted from your pay or pension at source.

Anyone in employment or with a private pension will have one.

Making sense of the letters and numbers

The number shows the amount you can earn tax-free - although you need to add a zero to get the actual figure. 

For example - the number 1257 means you can earn £12,570 a year tax-free.

The letters (which follow your tax code number) relate to your situation and how it alters your personal allowance.

For example,  L  means you are entitled to the tax-free personal allowance we outlined above. Therefore a tax code of 1257L (the most common tax code) means you are entitled to a personal allowance of £12,570 before any income tax is paid.

Here are what the other letters mean: 

• T  is similar to  L  in that if it follows numbers, you are entitled to that tax-free personal allowance. However, it also means HMRC will be taking a closer look at your tax affairs - usually the case if they are complicated;
• BR  means you aren't entitled to any personal allowance (usually because it's a second job etc) and will pay a flat rate of 20% tax. This is the same for  D0   but the rate is 40%, and  D1  where the rate is 45%.  SD2  is similar but only applicable in Scotland, where the top rate is 46%;
• K  means your personal allowance has been eroded down to less than nothing, meaning the number after the K is actually a negative personal allowance;
• 0T  means no personal allowance but you'll fall under the tax bands;
• NT  simply means "no tax";
• M  means your spouse or civil partner has transferred some of their personal allowance to you;
• N  means you've transferred it to your spouse/civil partner;
• If you have an  S  or a  C  ahead of any of the other letters, that just means you're living in Scotland or Wales. 

What happens when they're wrong?

Millions of Britons could be paying too much tax due to tax code issues, new data from Canada Life shows. 

A survey by the financial services provider found that 31% of adults have been on the wrong tax code at some point - with the average overpayment worth £689.

Over two thirds of those surveyed didn't know how to claim back overpaid tax.

The survey also found one in six UK adults did not know if they were on the right tax code and 39% were not aware what any of the letters or numbers on their tax code mean.

However, an HMRC spokesperson said: "We don't recognise these figures. 

"Tax codes are based on information provided by employers or pension providers. 

"People can check their code quickly and easily online and update any details that may be affecting it."

Why would my tax code be wrong?

There are any number of reasons HMRC could have the wrong tax code for you, including:

• A change in job 
• Having more than one source of income
• Retirement or having more than one pension
• Receiving employee benefits
• Starting your first job

How do I check my tax code?

You can check your tax code on your personal tax account online, or by looking at any payslip or via the HMRC app.

If you think it's wrong, you need to contact HMRC to tell them.

You can either phone 0300 200 3300, use their chat function or send them a letter. 

Emergency codes

W1 ,  M1  or  X are usually found after a regular tax code (eg 12570L W1).

This usually only happens if there's a delay in HMRC receiving details about a change in your circumstances, for example if you've just started a new job. 

SportsDirect.com, owned by Mike Ashley, is bringing a claim today against Newcastle United - the club Mr Ashley used to own.

It concerns a deal Newcastle has with JD Sports to offer exclusive kit sale rights.

The Competition and Appeals Tribunal will hear the case today - though it's not clear when a decision will come. 

Reports suggest Mr Ashley is seeking £1.5m in damages.

His company claims the club is abusing its dominant market position by refusing to supply its replica kit for the 2024-25 season.

Businesses are allowed to strike exclusivity deals unless they are in a dominant market position - for example, companies like Amazon or Google clearly have that status.

This case could rest on whether the tribunal deems Newcastle to hold such a position in the market.

By  Sarah Taaffe-Maguire , business reporter

As we mentioned below, there's possible bad news ahead for the London Stock Exchange (LSE) with talk of the biggest company in the FTSE 100, Shell, moving to the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE).

There's been a run of bad news for the LSE over the past year or so. The world's largest building products manufacturer, CRH, moved to New York, while travel company Tui moved to Frankfurt. And despite the lobbying of numerous prime ministers, UK-based chip company Arm chose the NYSE.

It's been a good morning for Shell's fellow FTSE 100 constituent, the oil giant BP. It announced production higher in oil and slightly higher in gas and low carbon energy on Monday, which brought the share price to a five-month high.

Both companies are going to be boosted by the oil price, which is sticking around $90 as a barrel of the benchmark Brent crude is selling for $90.48.

On the currency market, one pound equals $1.2652 and €1.1652.

Shell is weighing up quitting the London Stock Exchange (LSE) for a move to New York over concerns its listing is currently "undervalued".

Chief executive Wael Sawan told Bloomberg that he was mulling "all options".

The British oil and gas giant is currently the largest company in the FTSE 100 index, and its departure from the LSE would be a significant blow to the UK stock market that is fighting to stay relevant.

Explaining the gap between Shell and its New York rivals Exxon Mobil Corp and and Chevron Corp, Mr Sawan told Bloomberg: "I have a location that clearly seems to be undervalued."

The oil boss said he was currently in the middle of a "sprint" of 10 quarters to cut costs.

He continued: "If we work through the sprint, and we are doing what we are doing, and we still don't see that the gap is closing, we have to look at all options."

The chancellor announced a scrapping of the non-dom status in his March budget, saying the decision would raise £2.7bn for a 2p cut in national insurance.

Labour have been committed to abolishing non-dom status for years - upon gaining power they planned to use the money to fund breakfast clubs for primary school children and additional appointments in the NHS.

The government has also adopted Labour's plans to extend the windfall tax on oil and gas companies

Facing questions about where funding would now come from for key policies, the party has today offered details for the first time.

Shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to announce the party's plans to raise £5bn a year by the end of the next parliament...

• Labour has said it will raise £2.6bn by closing "loopholes" in the government's non-doms plan - after certain exemptions were kept in place by Jeremy Hunt;
• Labour said the "tax gap" - the difference between the amount of money HMRC is owed and the amount it receives - had widened to £36bn in 2021-22 - £5bn more than it had been the previous year;
• To close the gap, Labour said it would invest up to £555m a year in boosting the number of compliance officers at HMRC, increasing productivity and improving the organisation's "dire" customer service;
• It will also consider requiring more tax schemes to be registered with HMRC to ensure they are legitimate, and renew the focus on offshore tax compliance.

It is understood that only £2bn of the £5bn raised per year will fund breakfast clubs and NHS appointments, with the rest of the money being kept back for other uses.

Shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves is expected to say: "I have been clear that everything in our manifesto will be fully costed and fully funded. There will be no exceptions."

The government has responded by saying: "The Conservatives have introduced over 200 measures to clamp down on tax non-compliance and we are sticking to the plan to strengthen the economy so we can cut taxes, putting £900 in the pockets of the average worker and helping families to build a brighter future."

Ted Baker is to shut 15 of its stores across the UK within weeks, the retailer's administrators have announced.

Around 245 staff will be made redundant.

It comes after  Sky News revealed  that hundreds of jobs were at risk after the company behind the brand's UK shops, No Ordinary Designer Label Limited (NODL), collapsed last month.

In a statement, the administrators confirmed 11 UK stores will close by 19 April, resulting in the loss of about 120 roles.

A further four stores will also shut "in the coming weeks", resulting in 100 additional redundancies.

These shops had already been earmarked for closure prior to the firm's collapse, it has been revealed.

Around 25 head office jobs will also be axed as part of cost-cutting plans, administrators Teneo Financial Advisory said.

The 11 branches which will close as part of the administration process include:

• Birmingham Bullring • Bristol • Bromley • Cambridge • Exeter • Leeds • Liverpool One • London Bridge • Milton Keynes • Nottingham • Oxford

Administrators said the shops were "all currently loss-making" and had "no prospect of being returned to profitability, even with material rent reductions".

They added: "As such, their closure is believed to be a constructive and necessary step in ensuring the business can deliver a profitable trading performance in the future."

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Who is Don Hankey, the billionaire whose insurance firm provided Trump a $175 million bond payment?

By Aimee Picchi

Edited By Alain Sherter

Updated on: April 3, 2024 / 11:04 AM EDT / CBS News

Former President Donald Trump and his co-defendants in his New York civil fraud case on Monday posted a bond of $175 million , following a judge's ruling that they had for years misrepresented the value of his properties. The bond is underwritten by an insurance company run by a billionaire, who got his start making high-risk, high-interest loans to car buyers with poor credit.

Don Hankey, the executive whose company provided the bond, is a little-known mogul who built his $7.4 billion fortune through car dealerships and providing subprime auto loans, according to Forbes magazine . That makes him richer than Trump, whom Forbes estimates is worth $6.4 billion, including his multibillion stake in the newly public Trump Media & Technology Group.

Hankey, who told The Associated Press he has never met nor spoken with Trump, said his Knight Speciality Insurance company provided both cash and bonds as collateral for Trump's appellate bond. That bond is now essentially a placeholder that will guarantee payment if the judgment against Trump is upheld on appeal. 

"This is what we do at Knight Insurance, and we're happy to do this for anyone who needs a bond," Hankey told the wire service. 

Hankey didn't immediately respond to CBS MoneyWatch's request for comment.

Who is Don Hankey?

Hankey, 80, got started in the auto industry when his father bought a stake in a Ford dealership in Los Angeles in 1958. A teenager at the time, Hankey started out washing cars during the summer, but later stepped into a salesman role, he told the Los Angeles Business Journal last year. 

While Hankey was studying finance at the University of Southern California, his father died and his family lost its stake in the car dealership. But a few years after Hankey's graduation, his family repurchased the dealership with a $250,000 loan.

How did Hankey get into the car loans business?

After buying the dealership, Hankey courted buyers that other car sellers often rejected: subprime borrowers. His dealership provided the loans, unlike other car dealers which typically turn to banks to provide financing for auto purchases. 

Hankey told the Los Angeles Business Journal that his showroom was often filled with people arguing over terms they believed were unfavorable.

"We had beefs going on, and at the same time people coming in, buying cars," Hankey said . "But it all worked. And you would think that somebody buying a car would hate to see somebody else arguing about a payment, but it didn't seem to matter."

What other businesses does Hankey own?

Hankey expanded beyond auto dealerships when he realized that there was demand for subprime auto loans outside of Los Angeles, according to the Los Angeles Business Journal. 

He incorporated Westlake Financial Services, which Forbes said now works with more than 30,000 car dealerships across the U.S. to provide auto loans to people with poor credit histories. Westlake is now part of the Hankey Group, which also oversees other financial services companies, including Knight Insurance Group, the enterprise that provided Trump's bond. 

Is Hankey a Trump supporter?

Hankey told Bloomberg News he voted for Trump, but said that his support for the real estate developer didn't play into his decision to extend the bond. 

"Yes, I voted for him in the past, but this is a business deal and this is what we do," Hankey told the publication. "I have never met Donald Trump, nor talked to him on the phone."

Hankey has been a generous donor to political candidates, almost exclusively Republicans, including Donald Trump. Leading up to the 2016 presidential election, Hankey and his wife gave $80,000 to the Trump Victory Fund, with $5,400 going to the Trump campaign and the rest to the Republican National Committee, according to Open Secrets.

Axos Bank, in which Hankey is one of the biggest non-institutional investors, provided the funding to refinance Trump Tower and take out a $100 million loan in 2022, when the Trump Organization's real estate valuations were under scrutiny due to the New York fraud case , Bloomberg reported. Hankey told the publication he wasn't aware of the deal until after it was completed.

How does the $175 million bond work?

Appeal bonds are used when a defendant appeals a court ruling, which essentially freezes enforcement of the financial judgment as the legal process continues.

Insurers typically provide the bond after they have proof of collateral and charge a fee, which ranges from 1% to 2% of the bond amount, according to insurance broker NFP. That means Trump could be paying as much as $3.5 million on an annual basis for the bond guarantee from Knight Insurance. 

If Trump wins his appeal of the ruling, he won't have to pay the state anything and will get his money back.

"As promised, President Trump has posted bond. He looks forward to vindicating his rights on appeal and overturning this unjust verdict," said one of Trump's lawyers, Alina Habba.

—The Associated Press and CBS News' Dan Klaidman contributed to this report.

• Donald Trump

Aimee Picchi is the associate managing editor for CBS MoneyWatch, where she covers business and personal finance. She previously worked at Bloomberg News and has written for national news outlets including USA Today and Consumer Reports.

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Biden Takes Aim at SpaceX’s Tax-Free Ride in American Airspace

President Biden wants companies that use American airspace for rocket launches to start paying taxes into a federal fund that finances the work of air traffic controllers.

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By Minho Kim

Reporting from Washington

Every time a rocket soars into the sky carrying satellites or supplies for the International Space Station, air traffic controllers on the ground must take crucial steps to ensure that commercial and passenger aircraft remain safe.

The controllers, hired by the Federal Aviation Administration, close the airspace, provide real-time information on rockets and their debris and then reopen the airspace quickly after a launch is completed.

But unlike airlines, which pay federal taxes for air traffic controllers’ work for each time their planes take off, commercial space companies are not required to pay for their launches. That includes companies like Elon Musk’s SpaceX, which has launched more than 300 rockets over the past 15 years that often carried satellites for its Starlink internet service.

The Biden administration is looking to change that. President Biden’s latest budget proposal, released last month , suggests that for-profit space companies start paying for their use of government resources.

Commercial space companies are exempt from aviation excise taxes that fill the coffers of the Airport and Airway Trust Fund, which pays for the F.A.A.’s work and will get roughly $18 billion in tax revenues for the current fiscal year. The taxes are paid primarily by commercial airlines, which are charged 7.5 percent of each ticket price and an additional fee of about $5 to $20 per passenger, depending on the destination of each flight.

Mr. Biden’s budget proposal vows to work with Congress to overhaul the tax structure and split the cost of operating the nation’s air traffic control system. His promise is based in part on an independent safety review report commissioned by the F.A.A., which advises that the federal government update the excise taxes to charge commercial space companies.

“Whenever SpaceX launches a flight, it requires massive air traffic control resources to clear the airspace for hours around the launch window,” said David Grizzle, an author of the safety report and the former chief operating officer of the Air Traffic Organization, an agency within the F.A.A. that hires the controllers. “And again, it pays zero.”

SpaceX did not respond to multiple requests for comment.

Mr. Biden’s call for revising the decades-old excise tax structure is part of his push to make richer Americans and wealthy corporations “ pay their fair share .” In his State of the Union speech last month , Mr. Biden also called for raising taxes on private and corporate jet users , including increasing the tax that they pay on jet fuel to $1.06 per gallon from 21.8 cents per gallon over five years. That tax on fuel currently makes up around 3 percent of the annual revenue of the trust fund, which depends heavily on what commercial airlines and its passengers pay.

Yet commercial space companies do not contribute to that fund or share any of the cost that the public bears when rockets are launched, said William J. McGee, a former F.A.A.-licensed aircraft dispatcher and a senior fellow at the American Economic Liberties Project, a consumer advocacy group.

“This is a question of fundamental fairness,” Mr. McGee said. “It would be the equivalent of having a toll system on a highway and waving through certain users and not others.”

Rocket launches are a time-intensive process for the F.A.A., former air traffic controllers say. The agency has to create a detailed plan outlining the exact airspace to close and reroute planes before a launch. Controllers must also respond quickly if anything goes awry.

“Consider a space launch to be similar to a hurricane making landfall,” said Michael McCormick, a former air traffic controller who worked for the F.A.A. for more than three decades and now teaches at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.

Hurricanes disrupt plans, shutting down airports and forcing planes to be rerouted. Rocket launches require equally intricate planning from controllers, Mr. McCormick said.

“In Florida — which is also one of the densest commercial aviation traffic corridors — you can start to see some very real impacts on the system,” said Michael P. Huerta, who was the F.A.A. administrator during both the Obama and Trump administrations and is the chairman of the safety review board that wrote the report. Commercial rockets now fly mostly out of Vandenberg Space Force Base in California and Cape Canaveral, Fla., near Orlando.

The number of space launches has increased sharply in recent years , led by SpaceX, which puts dozens of satellites into the Earth’s orbit every month . In recent years, parts of NASA’s missions have also been contracted out to commercial space companies that carry supplies to the International Space Station .

In 2023, the F.A.A. oversaw 117 launches, a significant jump from a decade earlier, when there were only 15 flights. More than 30 rockets have been launched so far this year, putting 2024 on a pace to surpass last year’s number. The launch count includes U.S. rockets that took off from New Zealand, whose space agency has been regulating launches on its soil with the F.A.A .

The increase in launches is also prompting the F.A.A. to devote more resources to the oversight and permitting of space activities, which is separate from the work of air traffic controllers. The administration is requesting $57 million for authorizing and licensing for the commercial space industry for the 2025 fiscal year, an increase from the roughly $37 million spent in 2023 . The F.A.A. added 33 new employees to its licensing and oversight office for the industry last year.

Commercial space companies reject the Biden administration’s suggestion that they pay aviation taxes. Members of the industry argue that it is still in a nascent stage, when most enterprises struggle to break even. They also point out that rockets need only about 15 seconds to fly through the airspace and that the volume of rocket launches is still negligible compared with around 16 million flights that the F.A.A. handles annually.

Taxing the industry is “not appropriate at this time,” said Karina Drees, the president of the Commercial Spaceflight Federation, the industry group representing more than 80 companies and universities. “The commercial space industry, in close partnership with its F.A.A. regulator, continues to improve coordination of launch activity and avoid unnecessary impacts to” U.S. airspace.

But Mr. Huerta and Mr. Grizzle said that Congress should start looking for ways to tax the industry in anticipation of a boom in launches that is already beginning.

More rocket launches are adding pressure to the air traffic control system already marred by inadequate funding, staffing shortages and overworked personnel , the authors of the independent safety report said. Dozens of near collision events reported last year — in which commercial aircraft came dangerously close to each other — have demonstrated that the F.A.A.’s safety margins have already become thin.

The combination of staffing shortages and insufficient funding for new equipment “presents a perfect storm for more serious events occurring,” Mr. Grizzle said. The situation “will only get worse, as the proliferation of new entrants who pay no tax at all” continues.

The F.A.A. said in a statement that the agency is “committed to safely handling rapidly increasing space operations while minimizing disruption to the flying public.”

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