Received my 1st Workamper News yesterday. While reading the listings, I came across one which mentioned "site reimbursement" at end of committment. Does this mean that you would have to pay up front for the "free" hookup in this situation? Are the others the same, but do not mention it or is this one unusual? Also, some of the ads had $$ at the end, is it safe to assume that it means additional salary is also available? Is it easy to get all the details in writing before making a committment? My plan is to become a workamper in 2004 and I am trying to get as much info on this lifestyle as possible. Sorry for all the questions at once, but I am looking forward to getting on the road and need as much advise as I can get.
I would appreciate hearing from those who know and hoping to meet some of you in the future.
Vee & Snickers

Thanks to all, Vee This message was edited by vee on 8-9-02 @ 7:33 AM

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Thanks to all, Vee

Hi... Yes, it means that they count your site as part of your income for tax reporting purposes. Even if they reimburse, it is still reportable income.
There are also many places that do NOT count the free site as income. The site at the workamper job my husband and I have now is provided free and does not show up anywhere as additional income.
The jobs that show $$ at the end mean they pay something. Some workamper jobs are work in exchange for site only. Those that provide actual cash income have the $$ at the end of the ad.
There is a huge variety of differences in the types of workamper jobs offered, you just have to find something that works for you. Many people simply want a site, they don't need income. Other early retirees like ourselves must have cash inflow.
Finally... yes... you can actually work out all the details and obtain a job, even a written commitment, long distance through email, fax and phone.
Mark & I are working our first workamper job in the Eastern Sierras in California. We took the job in April sight unseen and haven't regretted a moment of it. We also recently hired CampHosts in the same way. They are working out beautifully.
Not everyone has been so lucky, and some people recommend that you NOT accept a job sight unseen, but you just have to remember... you will be on wheels. :)
Chris

Some work campers pay for their site and get paid for all hours worked, others get their site free, and some work 16 to 20 hours for their site. Be sure to find out how the employer handles the site and if there will be a 1099 for the site.
BTW, if they pay up front for the site its not free. Click to see who Sierra is:
http://pages.ivillage.com/sierra75142/