• 4 Tools Every Nomadic Entrepreneur Needs

    You hit the road because you dreamed of freedom and adventure.  If you’re like most entrepreneurs though, you hit a patch in your business where you haven’t been seeing much of those dreams.  Instead, you’re running your business, stuck inside your rig or at the nearest coffee shop and having to really carve out time to take those hikes or watch a sunset that’s not over the top of your open laptop.

    Your business is a wonderful tool that allows you the freedom to live on the road, but what if you could spend a little more time stepping away to enjoy life?

    You, my friend, need some systems. 

    Something to Manage Your Schedule

    For many of us hustlers on the road, a large part of our business depends on connecting with other people.  We’re scheduling meetings with clients, calls about potential collaborations or interviewing people for our own content.  Truth be told, without a tool, we probably spend as much time going back and forth to find the right meeting time, and trade meeting details, as we do having the actual meeting.  And let’s not forget the pain of sorting out time zones. 

    A scheduling tool can make a world of difference.  You send them a link, they enter their time zone, see what times you have available, choose one, and enter their contact details.  You both get a confirmation email and even reminders. Congrats, you just saved yourself a ton of time.

    My tool of choice for this is Acuity Scheduling.  Calendly is also an option, and many full-fledged systems like Dubsado are adding scheduling tools.

    Something to Manage Your Money

    Money is a pretty central part of your business, right?  If your business involves proposals, invoices, or payment plans, you need a system for this.  I’ve known some amazing business owners who have grown huge businesses painstakingly building out proposals and invoices in Word documents and sending them out.  Tracking payments in Excel, and making tons of money.

    But why put yourself through that so you do have to?  There are plenty of tools that will allow you to customize and send out proposals in a few clicks and automatically follow up with an invoice and contract without you needing to lift a finger.  That’s right, you could onboard that client and get paid while you’re out hiking. 

    My tool of choice for proposals, invoices, contracts, and even tracking my business revenue is Dubsado.  Freshbooks, Wave, and Xero area also great options on the money side.  For full-fledged systems, there’s also Honeybook and 17Hats.

    Something to Manage Your Website

    A lot of us tend to be DIYers, and I get that, but one place you don’t want to skimp is your website.  I cannot say enough about how much time having a good host and maintenance plan can save you. If something breaks, goes down or is just acting wonky, it’s well worth having someone you can trust to hand it off to and get it fixed.

    And I speak from experience here.  Even if you’re good at the web stuff, your website will go down at the least opportune time.  Probably in the middle of the night when you’re boondocking somewhere with terrible connectivity. 

    With a great host and maintenance system in place, the chances of your site going down or being hacked can be greatly reduced, but if something does go wrong, you can rest assured that it’ll be in good hands.

    I always recommend Betty Lou Hosting for this.

    Something to Manage Your Inbox

    Raise your hand if you have more than 50 emails in your inbox.  Raise your other hand if you tend to use your inbox as your to-do list.  If you’re sitting there with both hands in the air, you, my friend, are experiencing an Inbox Stickup.  

    I’d say this is the hardest one for most entrepreneurs, nomadic or otherwise. So let me be clear:

    Your inbox should not be your to-do list.

    If you’re allowing it to be, then you’re allowing anyone with your email address to add tasks to your to-do list.  No wonder you feel chained to your laptop.

    If your email provider allows it set up some labels and filters to help you clear the clutter quickly.  Sure, you need the email confirmations when your auto pays go through, but you really don’t need them clogging up your inbox.  Set them to auto-archive to their folders and be done with it.

    Connect your email with your actual to-do list or project management tool and send real to-do list items where they belong.

    Really, just get to know the tools your inbox has and start using them!

    My tool of choice for this is Spark (it’s Mac/iOS only, sorry).  It allows me to combine multiple inboxes into one, automatically sort out the important stuff from newsletters and notifications, and provides a suite of usable features like connecting with Evernote, snoozing or sending later, even reminding me to follow up if someone doesn’t reply.   Honestly, the Gmail browser interface does pretty well, too.

    Final Thoughts

    Sure, it takes a little bit of time to evaluate what tools are right for you and spend the time to set them up, but before you know it, you’ll be outside enjoying everything you’ve only been able to see from your rig’s windows. Maybe you’ll even get to take that three-week unplugged adventure into your favorite National Park. 

    Author

    Dani Schnakenberg

    Dani is a Business Systems Strategist. She helps entrepreneurs who want to ditch overwhelm to create a sustainable, dreamy business through establishing boundaries and systems that work for them.  After 7 years in entrepreneurship, she knows that it doesn’t have to be all about the hustle and grind. It’s the systems and processes that we build that allow us to build empires and live dreamy lives all at the same time.

    When she’s not nerding out over workflows, spreadsheets, and statistics, you can find Dani traveling with her husband and five kids, taking in a baseball game, or getting a little bit of peace and quiet on her yoga mat. Get all of Dani’s best tips, tricks, and tutorials at https://simplifiedbusinesssystems.com.

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  • Art of Being an RV Entrepreneur

    “Focus, darn it!” I still have at least two hours to salvage my unproductive day before the dog needs walking and dinner needs making. But eeking out a workflow feels impossible as I spy a snippet of the happy hour unfolding just outside my door. A Tequilla Sunrise swirl of red and orange hues spreads across the horizon, while nearby campers of a certain age relax on camp chairs, savoring another Sonoran desert sunset. 

    Eleven years after becoming a nomadic RV entrepreneur, nature is my friend and my enemy. Once again, I remind myself that my client is waiting as as I turn away from the fun and keep working.

    If you’re already an Xscaper you know that full-time RVing is no longer reserved for Social Security recipients. 

    The stereotype of the retired full-time RVer is fading away as more working-age people than ever ditch the default life for a nomadic lifestyle. Many are taking their existing jobs on the road, while others are workamping in scenic spots formerly reserved for their summer vacations. And some of us are bypassing both kinds of road work gigs to launch our four-hour workweek dream: a nomadic RV business we can run from anywhere.

    Being a location independent RV entrepreneur appears glamorous on the surface, but is balancing travel and nomadic business ownership as easy as it looks on social media?

    After eleven years full-timing while running various business ventures from the road, I can say with certainty that it is not.

    Although the kind of work that full-time RVing entrepreneurs do varies, a few universal truths about the lifestyle seem to apply to all of us. Our biggest challenge is making these truths play nicely with our wanderlust.

    The Yin and Yang of RV Entrepreneurship

    The Taoist theory of Yin and Yang best explains common scenarios that RV entrepreneurs face on a daily basis. For example, our lifestyle allows us to live in beautiful natural places where we can embrace the chill aspects of “Yin,” such as stillness, rest and inward contemplation. But if we want our business efforts to fund our travels, we must throw ourselves into the white hot characteristics of “Yang”:   high energy movement, enthusiasm and forward motion for our money-making endeavors.

    As RV entrepreneurs we must balance these opposites in order to enjoy the full-time RVing freedom we love. Embracing the less fun Yin aspects of entrepreneurship helps us reap the positive Yang freedoms our lifestyle provides.

    If you’re thinking of hitting the road and running a business on the move, ask yourself if you’re cut out to find balance for these common struggles all RV entrepreneurs face:

    The office view can change anytime, but getting there is disruptive.

    Dreaming of your next destination is half the fun of this lifestyle. From mapping out an itinerary to locating suitable places to stay, to planning meet-ups with friends, travel addicts like myself are always plotting our next move.

    And while it’s fun to dream about our plans, embarking on them usually throws a wrench into daily business operations.

    The smooth hum of the productive routines we established while staying three weeks in one spot will disappear for at least two days while we drive to our next. Along the way, our business operations need to withstand any surprises that can disrupt the flow even longer, like when the Alcan ate our trailer.

    Being nomadic is easier than ever, but connectivity comes at a price.

    Cellular broadband now gets us online in some of the most spectacular places on earth. We can run our business from the base of the Grand Tetons or the coast of Maine, but this ease of Internet access comes at a price in more ways than one.

    For starters, running an Internet-based venture from the road requires an investment in must-have mobile Internet gear like mobile broadband hotspots, cellular signal boosters, or even RV satellite Internet if getting far away from population centers is a priority for you. With network redundancy being the best option for reliable connectivity, your monthly Internet and phone bill is likely going to rise once you hit the road. 

    Even with the best service, when you stray from civilization you’re still going to occasionally encounter intermittent connectivity battles that put your business operations at a standstill. Clients and customers may adore your lifestyle, but they may not be sympathetic with the weak Internet signal in your new location.

    On a deeper level, the ease of Internet access makes it easy to fall into our old default life patterns that we tried to escape by becoming a full-time RVer.

    How many beautiful afternoons and gorgeous sunsets will your retired neighbors enjoy that you won’t, because you couldn’t pry your fingers away from the keyboard?

    Working online from anywhere requires as much discipline to succeed as it does to walk away from technology and into the natural landscapes that we seek out in the first place.

    Shipping product from the road is as easy as locating a post office – unless you cross the border.

    I used to think that running a RV-based business and shipping product was easy as locating any old post office.

    Many places in the U.S. are within an easy drive to one and the most I’ve driven to get to one is about 30 minutes.

    But earlier this summer I discovered that once you venture beyond our borders, moving product to customers is challenging and expensive. Shipping my jewelry creations from remote regions of Canada and Alaska to the Lower 48 was a time consuming, expensive ordeal that left customers wondering if their orders would ever show up.

    Later I discovered that if we head south to Mexico, those orders may not make it to the U.S. at all.

    Running a business from your RV is never flawless, but owning an enterprise that doesn’t involve shipping from your rig sets you up for success better than one that does.

    If your business relies on moving product, consider doing what Xscaper Lisa Beale (139772) does for her Pre-Poo for Hair product; she hires Amazon for order fulfillment.

    Better yet, set up your operations so that you can put orders on hold while you explore beyond our borders. Doing so could save your sanity and your reputation.

    I recently stopped at a yard sale with mountains of old office equipment. From metal filing cabinets to a classic Swingline stapler, the remnants of bricks-and-mortar entrepreneurship reminded me how fortunate we are to be full-timing in the Internet age.

    We can earn a living from many of the same beautiful places that our parents waited 40-plus years to explore! These grand adventures are ours for the taking, as long as we can mentally and physically manage the positives and negatives of carrying our business life wherever we go.

    Author

    Rene Agredano

    Rene and Jim are enjoying their 11th year as full-time RVers and location-independent entrepreneurs. Follow their travels at LiveWorkDream.com.

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  • Making Mobile Work for You – RVer...

    It’s A New Era

    Times have changed, and today’s working nomads aren’t just looking at traditional working options on the road like “workcamping”. Instead RVers like you are taking the concept of telecommuting to a new level, hitting the open road in record numbers bringing new skills, experience and knowledge in search of an income that supports their freedom and wanderlust. We not only recognize this change but are here to be a part of it with you. So, we created a new resource to meet the needs of this new generation.

    Working on the road isn’t only a way of life, it’s a conscious ideal.

    The RVer Job Exchange is a free resource site focused directly on the modern-day working RVer.

    For the RVing community and mobile workforce, technology now grants new income possibilities that range across the spectrum of job types and professions, beyond the traditional idea of workcamping.

    We have seen firsthand the style of jobs that mobile workers are performing from their RV such as bookkeeping, virtual assistant, freelance writing, web development, virtual teaching and more. These opportunities have been under-supported on other RV job resources for many years and it is time for this outdated thinking to change. So, whether you are looking for freelance, full-time, onsite or remote work, your resume will be right at home.

    Supporting Change

    The idea of living in an RV and traveling around the country can be a foreign and confusing concept to grasp for many in our society. This causes uncertainty and false assumptions for employers and can even lead to automatic denial for job positions simply because it isn’t perceived as the norm. We believe if anything, you provide more advantages due to your traveling lifestyle and state of mind.

    As RVers, full-time remote workers, and leaders in one of the largest RV clubs, we get it!

    Just because your house has wheels and an ever-changing front yard shouldn’t limit your opportunities or that you should have to hide it. It has been our continual goal to provide you, the working nomad, a place you can share your experience, skills, and knowledge with those that not only understand your nomadic lifestyle, but also support it.

    However, we need your help to make an impact.

    The mobile workforce continues to be an underutilized asset by many companies and individuals. The RVer Job Exchange is not only meant to be a resource for working nomads, but also a way for us to change outdated thinking of employers and individuals so they consider the opportunities the nomadic community provides. We realize it is no simple task, but your resumes and participation help us to provide validation and to create transformation in this thought.

    The RVer Job Exchange Difference

    Simply put, we know the RVing community offers both mobility and flexibility that are hard to find elsewhere, so it is our goal to provide a resource as unique as you. We want to eliminate the need to search between dozens of jobs listing sites and hundreds of “looking to hire” ads to find an income stream that in hopes will support your non-traditional way of life. Instead, we feel you should not only be proud to be an RVer, but that it is an important aspect of your portfolio.

    Create a profile and let those seeking your skills and experience find you. There is no charge for this service. Consider RVer Job Exchange as your personal resource center! Search posted jobs by job category, type of work, and location. You will find job opportunities ranging from short-term to long-term and encompassing all types of categories. Job options can range from volunteer positions to highly compensated positions and everything in between. In the past there have been listings for property sitting, website development, proofreading, tutoring, graphics design and even RV renovation. You will also find helpful articles and support with the unique challenges RVers working on the road face, such as transitioning into the lifestyle, income tax filings, tax deductions, and more.

    Getting Started

    Let us help you make the RV lifestyle a successful one and create a profile today!

    Fill out our quick questionnaire and let employers or individuals seeking your skills and interests find you. From big to small, there are jobs opportunities available to meet your needs and your nomadic lifestyle. Keep in mind this website is not only to serve businesses but also individuals and fellow RVers looking for help or to hire!

    If you are unsure of where to start, consider the list below of possible opportunities as inspiration for your resume building.

    Employers are looking for talented individuals for many of the jobs listed below and more!

    Submit Your Resume

    Remote Jobs

    • Accounting and Tax Preparation
    • Advertising Sales
    • Affiliate Sales
    • Agents (travel, insurance, etc.)
    • Antiques/Collectibles Dealer
    • Audio (voice over, audio books)
    • Authors
    • Bargain Hunting & Re-Selling Online
    • Bloggers
    • Bookkeepers/Accountants/CPAs
    • Consultants & Advisors
    • Content Creators
    • Customer Service Phone Representative
    • Customer Support
    • Database managers
    • Developers
    • E-Course Class instructor
    • Editors
    • Event Planning and Promotion
    • Financial Planning
    • Fitness Trainer/Coach
    • Freelance Writers
    • Graphic Designers
    • Illustrator
    • Investors/Traders
    • IT managers
    • Jewelry Designer
    • Lawyers
    • Life Coach
    • Nutrition Coach
    • Online Products & Stores
    • Online Professors & Teachers
    • Personal Assistants
    • Personal and Professional Coaches
    • Photography (journalism, portrait, stock, artistic and training)
    • Podcasters
    • Product Evangelists
    • Programmers
    • Proofreader
    • Researchers
    • Resume Preparation
    • Social Media Specialists
    • Technical Writer
    • Transcriptionists
    • Translators
    • Tutoring
    • Videography 
    • Web Designers
    • Writing and Press Relation

    On-Site Jobs

    • Amusement Park Staff
    • Auto Detailing and RV Cleaning
    • Concessionaires
    • Conference Speakers
    • Construction and Craftsmanship
    • Contract Medical Staff
    • Dog Groomer
    • Electrician
    • Entertainers
    • Festival Workers
    • Field Researchers
    • Hair Stylists & Make-up Artists
    • Harvest workers
    • Home Cleaning
    • Home Healthcare Aid
    • House & Pet Sitters
    • Independent Sales Representative
    • Inspectors & Secret Shoppers
    • Journalism
    • Massage Therapists and Chiropractors
    • Mobile Auto/RV Repair
    • Musician or DJ
    • Oil fields
    • Onsite Security
    • Performance Artists
    • Photographers
    • Product Sales
    • Professional Organizer
    • Publication Ad Sales
    • Repair & Technician Work
    • Seasonal Workers
    • Solar Power Installation
    • Tattoo Artist
    • Therapists
    • Tour Guides
    • Trainers & Teachers
    • Traveling Sales & Demonstrators
    • Volunteer Jobs
    • Video Production
    • Workcamping

    These are just some of the work opportunities available to those on the road. You no longer have to wait for retirement to travel the country.

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  • Health Insurance Options for The Self-Employed RVer

    Figuring out health care options is probably one of hardest things for newbies hitting the road, especially those who are younger (pre-Medicare) and self-employed. When you’re an RVer it’s not just the traveling part that makes it hard (the fact that you’re always in a different city, with different doctors), but rather the insurance options too. There are so many choices, and the details are complicated and over-whelming. Is it best to buy insurance on the Marketplace? Off-Market? Somewhere else? What options do I really have, and how will they cover me if I get ill or injured?

    Well, I’m not going to tell you that health insurance is easy, and I’m certainly not going to be able to cover every plan out there in one post, but hopefully I can help you narrow down the options. In this article my goal is to cover the basics, the top-level stuff on what insurance options are available for the self-employed today, and how to decide which one makes the most sense for you.

    So, make yourself a beverage of choice, get settled into your most comfortable RV chair and let’s dig right in.

    Official Disclaimer: I am not a qualified health insurance broker, nor am I in the medical field. This is simply a layman’s view of health insurance options, as I see them. Please consult an expert before you buy.

    Self-Employed RVer Health Insurance Needs

    Before we enter the nitty gritty of what kinds of insurance plans you can buy (and where) I think it’s important to look at needs. Personally, I think there are several basic things that all self-employed RVers should consider when they shop for an insurance plan, no matter what or from whom they buy:

    • Solid Nationwide Provider Network – RVers are travelers, so having access to a network of doctors throughout the country is essential. The wider your insurance provider network, the more likely you are to find an “in-network” doctor (or hospital) wherever you go, which is critical for keeping your costs down. Out-of-network care is expensive and can expose you to hidden costs (including a wicked gotcha known as “balance billing”), so staying in-network is something you always want to try to do. In insurance terms, PPO (Preferred Provider Organizations) plans generally provide the largest accessible network with the least restrictions, but even these can vary a ton by size. Always check network details for any plan before you buy!
    • RV (Travel) Friendly – Certain insurances require you to be “in state” a certain number of months per year, or they simply won’t accept mail forwarding addresses as proof of residence (we ran into this problem in SD, back in the day). This is obviously a no-go for fulltime travelers, so it’s important to choose an insurance that does not have these restrictions in place.
    • Out-Of-Network Caps – Our goal is always to try and stay in-network, but sometimes it can’t be helped. If it’s offered, choose plans that limit out-of-network costs, just in case. This isn’t something that is regulated, so it’s you’ll need to check for it specifically.
    • Overall Costs, Including Deductibles and Co-Insurance – It’s always essential to compare overall costs for whatever plan you decide on, including deductibles and co-insurance before you buy. For example, a lower-cost plan will usually have higher deductibles, which is a non-issue if you are healthy but can add significant costs if you have on-going issues or incur new health issues during the year. So, make sure to look at the total (combined) numbers, before you make the assessment on what’s right for you.
    • Support For Pre–Existing Conditions (If Needed) – If you have a pre-existing health condition, you must choose a plan that covers your needs. In today’s landscape “ACA-compliant” plans are all required to cover pre-existing conditions, whereas “non-ACA-compliant” plans are not (see below for more on these). This may all change in the future however, so it’s important to keep this in mind whenever you shop around.
    • Support For Maternity (If Needed) – If you’re a younger RVer, planning or thinking about getting pregnant on the road, it’s important to make sure your insurance plan covers maternity care. Once again, in today’s landscape “ACA-compliant” plans are all required to cover maternity care, whereas “non-ACA-compliant” plans are not (see below for more).
    • Support for an HSA Account (If Wanted) – This is not an essential item, but something to consider. A Health Savings Account is a nice benefit and something I’d recommend for all self-employed RVers. The money you put away each year for medical care is tax-free, plus you don’t pay taxes on the interest you earn in that account and you get to spend it tax-free. It’s like a triple-tax benefit. Not all insurance plans support this, so if you want it, you have to look specifically for it. We’ve always bought plans that support an HSA.

    A Full-Time RV “Benefit” - Domicile!

    When you’re shopping around for health insurance, you’ll very quickly discover that plan offerings and costs vary tremendously not just by state, but even by county!

    As a full-time RVer, your domicile determines where you buy, and one of the “benefits” you can exercise (as long as you do not have legal ties to a specific state) is to switch your domicile to a less expensive location.

    Now, domicile choice is a rather complex topic and should never be undertaken on just one thing (Escapees has great articles on this), but health insurance is definitely one of the considerations to take into account.

    Insurance brokers like RVerinsurance.com and comparison websites like healthsherpa.com and ehealthinsurance.com can help you get quotes for plans & costs in different locations.

    Traditional Insurance (Marketplace, Off-Exchange & Non-ACA)

    So now that we’ve covered basic needs, what kind of health insurance can a self-employed RVer actually buy? As it turns out, this landscape has changed a TON over the last 10 years.

    Around 10 years ago, self-employed RVers could only buy insurance by shopping for private plans in their state of domicile. Then in 2010, the ACA (Affordable Care Act) was passed which standardized coverage requirements for major medical and created a centralized “marketplace” where you could buy subsidized insurance plans, depending on your income level. This was a massive change.

    Fast forward 8 more years, and things are changing again! New legislation enacted this year will eliminate the “individual mandate” penalty (the tax penalty you paid if you chose not to get insured or bought a non-ACA-compliant plan) and allow certain formerly-limited plans (like short-term insurance) to be bought over the longer term. The net result of all this is that in 2019, self-employed RVers will now have THREE options to buy insurance!

    • They can buy plans through the “Marketplace/Exchange”
    • They can buy plans “Off-Market/Off-Exchange”
    • They can buy “Non-ACA-Compliant” plans

    I’m not here to say that one is better than the other, nor am I here to comment on the politics of the situation, but I can certainly lay out the pros and cons of each, so you can make the best decision on which one might be right for you.

    We've created Escapees Healthcare Solutions to help you stay covered on the road.

    Escapees Healthcare Solutions

    Marketplace (Exchange) Insurance

    The “Marketplace” or “Exchange” is a centralized location (healthcare.gov in most cases, although some states run their own exchange) where you can shop & enroll in plans that meet the requirements enacted by the ACA in 2010. Enrollment happens once per year (typically Nov 1 – Dec 15th), plans are presented in 5 categories (the 4 “Metal” tiers = Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum, plus “Catastrophic*”) and all must meet a set of 10 “Essential Health Benefits (EHBs)” covering various things from emergency services to maternity & preventative care. Note that certain details such as network provider size & out-of-network care (except emergency) are not regulated by the ACA, so make sure you shop accordingly.

    Pros

    • Coverage For Pre-Existing Conditions: All marketplace plans are required by ACA law to cover pre-existing health conditions and cannot charge extra for them.
    • Coverage For Maternity: This is one of the 10 EHBs and all ACA-compliant plans must cover it. For younger RVers who might want to start a family on the road, this is a definite advantage.
    • Subsidies (If You Qualify): If your MAGI (Modified Adjusted Gross Income) falls between 100-400% of the federal poverty level (which translates to between $12,140-$48,560 for a single person in 2018) you will receive a monthly credit on your healthcare costs for any “Metal” plan (Bronze to Platinum) bought through the exchange. The lower your income the higher the subsidy, and the $ involved can be substantial (for low-earners, insurance might even be free). If you qualify, you should definitely take advantage of this!

    Cons:

    • Subsidies (If You DO NOT Qualify): If you do not qualify for subsidies, either you earn too little (less than 100% FPL) or too much (even $1 over the 400% FPL number disqualifies you) then you pay full price on all “Metal” plans (Bronze to Platinum), and that can be $! If this is the case, you might want to consider a “Catastrophic*” plan, and/or shop around outside the marketplace.

    *What Are “Catastrophic” Plans? These are higher deductible, lower premium, non-subsidy plans. In previous years, only folks under 30 or those who qualified for a “hardship exemption” were eligible to buy them without having to pay the tax penalty. As of Jan 1st, 2019 this tax penalty is going away, so these plans may become an option for more folks.

    Who Should Buy Here?

    Marketplace Plans are the best way to go if you qualify for subsidies. They are also worth looking at for anyone with a pre-existing condition, and/or younger RVers looking to start a family on the road. Just make sure the plan you buy is RV (travel) friendly and offers a solid nationwide provider network.

    Off-Market (Off-Exchange) Insurance

    “Off-Market” or “Off-Exchange” insurance plans are basically just major medical plans bought outside of the official ACA-created health insurance exchange. They are identical to “Marketplace” plans in that they have to meet ACA regulations. So, they’re presented in the same 5 tiers (Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum, plus Catastrophic) and must cover pre-existing conditions and the same 10 “Essential Health Benefits”. The biggest difference however, is that off-exchange plans are NOT eligible for subsidies. Also, they may work with different networks, have different prescription drug coverage and/or vary somewhat in structure.

    Pros:

    • Coverage For Pre-Existing Conditions: All “off-exchange” major medical plans are required by ACA law to cover pre-existing health conditions.
    • Coverage For Maternity: This is one of the 10 EHBs and all ACA-compliant plans, including off-exchange plans, must cover it.
    • More Options: In certain states, carriers might have pulled out of the ACA exchange, but still offer off-exchange options. Also network offerings from off-exchange plans can be different and might (sometimes) be better. For folks who don’t qualify for subsidies, this can give a wider range of plans to choose from.

    Cons:

    • Expensive: Since “off-exchange” plans are still regulated by ACA, and do not qualify for subsidies, the “Metal” plans tend to be on the expensive side. Price depends a lot on age, so younger folk will find much more affordable solutions than folks nearing Medicare age. Also, if a “Catastrophic” plan works for you, this can be a less expensive offering to look at.
    Who Should Buy Here?

    Off-Market plans are worth looking at for anyone who does NOT quality for subsidies, but still needs the protections offered by ACA (e.g. coverage for pre-existing conditions, maternity care etc.). Once again, make sure the plan you buy is RV (travel) friendly and offers a good nationwide provider network.

    Non-ACA-Compliant Insurance

    “Non-ACA-compliant” insurance basically covers any private plan that does not meet ACA requirements.  The most important thing to understand about these kinds of plans is that they do not have any regulation on pre-existing conditions, coverage levels, or lifetime caps. In recent years, buying this kind of plan would force you to pay a tax penalty, but as of Jan 1st, 2019 this will no longer be the case. This opens up a lot of new possibilities, especially for younger RVers, but also means you really need to scrutinize the fine print to make sure the plan you buy actually covers what you need.

    Examples of non ACA-Compliant plans include:
    • Short-Term Insurance – These are high-deductible plans that were originally designed to cover temporary (less than 3 months) insurance gaps, for example when moving states, or jobs. Just this year, new rules were enacted which will allow these plans to be sold up to 364 days at a time, with renewals for up to 36 months. They typically have lifetime caps between $250,000 to $2 million, but can provide pretty decent coverage, and often have good nationwide provider networks too. They typically exclude pre-existing conditions though, so they’re not an option if you already have a health condition. We’ve bought short-term insurance in the past and would do so again.
    • Indemnity Plans – These are plans that provide limited, fixed-sum benefits for expenses related to accidents and certain illnesses. They are not comprehensive insurance and are not designed to replace major medical but can be a useful supplement. For those interested, Escapees offers a very reasonable indemnity plan called “Axis Healthcare Assist”.
    • Minimum Essential Coverage (MEC) Plans – these are plans that only cover the “minimum essentials” of ACA, such as preventative care and wellness benefits. Once again, these are not comprehensive insurance and will not cover you for major medical but can be a useful supplement for preventative care. Escapees offers a plan here called WellMEC.
    • Association Health Plans (AHPs) – these are plansoffered by certain associations (e.g. trade groups, business associations etc.) for the benefit of small businesses or self-employed individuals who join them. AHPs have actually existed for years but have traditionally been rather restrictive to join. However new legislation (enacted this year) has relaxed how they work, so I think many more offerings will pop up here in the future. This will be a space to watch for self-employed RVers!

    Pros:

    • Lots More Options: Since these plans are not regulated by the ACA, there are a ton more options available to consumers from extremely minimal to fuller coverage.
    • Much Cheaper Plans: The same lack of regulation also means providers can offer much cheaper plans such as high-deductible plans with restrictions in place (e.g. no coverage for pre-existing conditions). As long as these restrictions are acceptable to you, prices can be very affordable indeed.

    Cons

    • Lots More Options (Beware The Fine Print!): Lack of regulation also means you need to read the fine print on these plans much, much more closely. Details such as lifetime caps, maternity coverage, pre-existing condition coverage (all of which are regulated by ACA-law) no longer apply. Also plans are not regulated on exactly what they must cover, so they may just cover a teeny portion of medical care (say, preventative care in the case of MEC plans) and not protect you at all in the event of an accident or major illness. There are some very interesting (and viable) options for RVers in this space, but you do need to be vigilant when you buy.
    Who Should Buy Here?

    Non-ACA-Compliant plans are worth a look for anyone who does not have a pre-existing condition and is seeking more affordable or alternative choices outside of the ACA.

    Cost-Sharing & Ministry Options

    A complete alternative to traditional insurance is to join what is known as a cost-sharing or ministry plan. This idea has blossomed in popularity over the last 8 years, in large part because of massive cost increases on ACA plans (especially for folks who do not qualify for subsidies), with Ministries offering comparable-looking options at a fraction of the price. Before you jump on this bandwagon however, it’s important to understand the following:

    Ministry plans are NOT insurance

    These are faith-based cost-shares where individuals pool their money together to pay medical costs for other individuals in the same faith group. There is no regulation, no financial oversight, no guarantee that your medical expenses will be paid, and no legal recourse if they do not get paid.

    With that said, many are strongly attracted to the idea of a faith-based share for religious or personal reasons, and the costs to join are inexpensive compared to traditional insurance. If you want to research this more, the most popular ministries to look into are Samaritan Ministries, Christian Healthcare Ministries, Medi-Share, and Liberty Healthshare.

    Self-Insurance

    I do want to quickly mention this, because it does come up often in RV health care discussions. Some people chose to “self-insure” by simply putting money aside into a health care fund each month.

    This kind of approach can work for many things in life (e.g. RV repair fund), but in my opinion it does not work for health care. Health care is so expensive in the USA that unless you happen to have millions of extra cash on-hand, a single, major health incident (e.g. accident, illness) could potentially ruin you financially for life.

    I don’t think anyone should ever put themselves in that situation, so I would always recommend getting yourself insured, no matter which route you choose.

    Tele-Medicine & Online Docs

    A final note on Tele-Medicine & Online Docs.

    As you’re shopping around for health insurance, you may hear rumblings about tele-medicine and online docs. This is a fairly new development in the US healthcare industry (we didn’t discover it ourselves until our last few years on the road), but we think it’s an AWESOME resource for RVers, and something every traveler should consider as they’re putting together their health care plan for the road.

    There are several ways to access tele-medicine. Some insurance plans include it as part of their services (e.g. our old Avera plan in SD had it), but you can also buy separate plans that cover it, or you can sign-up for monthly or one-time service directly with a provider (e.g. Escapees MyHealthPass). Costs are typically inexpensive, running anywhere from free (if it’s part of your insurance or a monthly service) to $45-$75 for a single visit (if you’re just using it one time).

    Once you’ve decided on a service, they all work pretty much the same way.

    When you have something you want to speak to a doc about, you sign-in (either from your computer, or through an app on your phone or pad), chose an available doctor (from a list, which may also list their qualifications, history, and reviews), and then you have a 1-1 video call, typically lasting around 15 mins, about your problem. It’s a quick, relaxed, and frankly really pleasant way to see a doc, all done from the comfort of your RV!

    Online docs obviously can’t handle everything. They can’t handle emergencies or anything requiring an in-person diagnostic (for those things, go immediately to an Urgent Care or Emergency Room), but they can handle a surprising number of basic problems, and can help you sort out whether your symptoms require an in-person visit to a doc or not. Plus, they can prescribe basic meds (to be picked up at the nearest pharmacy), and some can even order blood tests too (to be fulfilled at the nearest lab). These days Telehealth is expanding, and starting to offer extra services like concierge care, mental health care and even preventative care. We think it’s the trend of the future.

    That’s All She Wrote

    Phew! If you made it through all that I congratulate you! Hopefully I managed to give you a few useful pointers on what insurance to choose for your life on the road. Healthy traveling to you all!

    Author

    Nina Fussing

    Nina Fussing (SKP#106238) is a blogger, photographer and all-around nature-lover who spent 8 years fulltime RVing with her hubby & 12 paws around USA. They are now in Europe continuing the adventure there. 
    Follow their story at: wheelingit.us

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  • Smartphones and Mobile Hotspots – Mobile Internet...

    In today’s world, most RVers use cellular data as a means to connect to the Internet while traveling. However, many have questions such as: “When does it make sense to rely on only a smartphone?” “When is a dedicated mobile hotspot justified?” “What are other cellular options?”

    The connectivity solution that makes the most sense depends on how many devices you’re trying to keep connected, how many people will be accessing the Internet, how many data plans you want to keep active, where you think you’ll need Internet access and what devices you already own. The basic options include devices that are restricted to data only, such as mobile hotspots and USB modems, or putting cellular connected tablets and phones to work serving double duty by providing an Internet connection for your computers as well.

    Here are the mobile internet options to consider:

    • Tethering or hotspotting off your smartphone or tablet dedicated mobile
    • Hotspot (aka MiFi or Jetpack)
    • Cellular modem (such as a USB Stick)
    • Cellular integrated mobile routers

    Keep reading and we’ll cover the advantages and drawbacks of each option, and which is recommended or most practical for your situation.

    Smartphone / Tablet

    The simplest way to share a cellular data connection with multiple devices is by using the built-in mobile hotspot or tethering feature provided by most smartphones and tablets.

    “Hotspot” is when you use the device to create a wireless WiFi hotspot to which several other devices can connect.

    “Tethering” is when you connect a single laptop or router to the cellular device using a USB cable, allowing only that one device to share in the connection.

    Assuming your cellular carrier has enabled this feature (most current plans do), you will find a prominent option in the control panel of Apple iOS and many Android devices to enable “Personal Hotspot” or “Mobile Hotspot” to turn on this connection sharing feature.
    You can then easily configure a network name and password to protect the connection.

    Advantages:

    • On most current tiered data plans direct with the major carriers (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint), mobile hotspot is included with no extra fee. On “unlimited” data plans some high speed mobile hotspot use is generally included.
    • It’s super simple. There are no extra devices to manage.

    Disadvantages:

    • Most “unlimited” data plans offered directly from the carrier have restrictions on hotspot use, such as a set amount at high speed data.
    • Many prepaid or reseller phone plans do not include any hotspot usage.
    • This is not ideal for multiple people in a household sharing a connection. Imagine what happens if the person with the hotspot-enabled smartphone takes it out to run errands, knocking everyone else offline.
    • Talking on your phone can sometimes knock your connected devices offline, or greatly reduce the network data-connection speed. So, if you need to regularly talk on your phone and be online, having your phone doing double duty may not be an ideal solution.
    • Many devices go to sleep when there’s no active connection, so you may need to wake your device and turn the hotspot feature back on after any period of inactivity.
    • Hotspotting from a smartphone or tablet drains the battery quickly, so you have to make sure the device is plugged in and charging.
    Recommended for:

    Solo travelers, for those who are not dependent on Internet for critical tasks: for access to a secondary cellular network, i.e.: if your primary is Verizon with a MiFi, you can access AT&T as a backup; when needed by hotspotting from a smartphone; or for out-and-about Internet access away from the RV.

    MOBILE HOTSPOTS (Jetpack and MiFi)

    Also, sometimes referred to as a Jetpack or MiFi, mobile hotspots are small, self-contained units that receive a cellular data signal, and then broadcast a WiFi hotspot that enables your other electronic devices to connect to the Internet.

    These are in essence a cellular modem and tiny WiFi router combined. Most mobile hotspots tend to be able to serve five to 15 connected devices at once.

    Because they have a battery built into them, you can easily take a mobile hotspot with you when on the go. Some can even double as portable battery packs, allowing you to charge other USB devices as well.

    Advantages:

    • You can take along your Internet with you almost anywhere with these self-contained gizmos. Some are even designed to work outdoors in the rain.
    • These hotspots are typically easy to use and perfect for those who don’t want to have to learn to manage other more complex options.
    • Having a dedicated device that can be left plugged in to your tech cabinet, always ready to go, means you do not need to fumble with manually activating the hotspot feature on your phone when you want to connect
    • Some cellular plans will, for a small monthly fee, allow you to add a mobile hotspot to your plan.

    Disadvantages

    • Finding data-only plans for these devices can be confusing and potentially expensive.
    • These are simplified routers, so if you need a more complex router with advanced features or wired Ethernet ports, a mobile hotspot alone may not fit the bill.
    • The WiFi range of most mobile hotspots will usually be enough to get you connected within a typical-sized RV. But, if you want a faster or longer-range local WiFi network, you will need something better suited to the task.
    Recommended for:

    Multi-person or multi-device households, and for those who depend on cellular data for critical tasks and don’t want to bother with tethering from a smartphone and need their RV to have Internet access even while they’re away (remoting in to check on cameras or RV automation systems).

    USB CELLULAR MODEMS & CONNECTED CAR DEVICES

    A USB “stick” cellular modem or Connected Car device needs to plug into something in order to be functional such as your computer or compatible cellular-aware router.  Connected Car devices either are built into modern vehicles, or need to plug into the diagnostic port of a vehicle. .

    If you are traveling solo and only need to keep a single laptop online, this can be a simple and elegant solution.

    Advantages:

    • Because of their simplicity, dedicated modems tend to be more reliable than mobile hotspots. There is simply less that can go wrong.

    Disadvantages:

    • Finding data-only plans for these devices can be confusing and potentially expensive.
    Recommended for:

    Solo travelers needing only one laptop connected, or a household planning to have a cellular optimized router anyway. In general, this option has been eclipsed by others.

    Cellular Integrated and Mobile Routers

    Last, but not least, there are high-end options. These options use a dedicated router to share a cellular data plan, while creating a more advanced local area network that is capable of supporting multiple devices, while integrating other upsteam data connections. These might be WiFi, campground WiFi, cable Internet hookups or even satellite Internet.

    The advantage of this type of mobile router is that all your local devices only need to be configured once, not every time you change your connection method. Your tech connects to the mobile router, and the mobile router selects between the various upstream options.

    To connect to the Internet by cellular service, mobile routers typically pairs with and controls traditional mobile hotspots or USB cellular modems. Some can even connect via a tethered smartphone.

    Some more advanced (and expensive) mobile routers even feature an integrated cellular radio of their own, eliminating the need for tethering to an external hotspot. Some models even can be installed on your RVs roof to get you the best possible signal.

    Advantages:

    • Allows you to create a more capable local area, wired and/or wireless network, with the ability to support printers, streaming media devices and local network drives for backup storage and more.
    • If you change your upstream connection, you only have to reconfigure the router, not every connected device. If you have many devices sharing the connection, this can make things vastly simpler.
    • A dedicated router can provide a much stronger WiFi signal, reaching well beyond what a smartphone or MiFi alone can provide.

    Disadvantages

    • Cellular-integrated routers tend to be updated infrequently, so they often lag a year (or oftentimes longer) behind mobile hotspots and smartphones in supporting the latest cellular frequency bands and technologies. But a mobile router paired with the latest mobile hotspot can avoid this issue.
    • These dedicated router options require some networking knowledge to install and manage.
    • There can be a substantially higher acquisition costs, and finding suitable data-only plans to use in them can be difficult or pricey.
    Recommended for:

    Those with multiple devices in their RV who need to keep connected, those needing a wired local network, those who have more complex needs overall and those who are a bit more tech-savvy and comfortable with basic networking.

    Regardless of which method you choose, for maximum coverage and speed, we recommend purchasing the newest cellular devices you can, and plan on replacing your hardware every few years to stay current with the latest cellular standards and frequency bands.

    Authors

    Cherie Ve Ard and Chris Dunphy

    Cherie Ve Ard and Chris Dunphy of Technomadia.com have been living and working full-time on the road since 2006, and Internet connectivity has been essential to them every step of the way. To help other RVers with the challenges of staying connected, they co-authored The Mobile Internet Handbook, and in 2014 they launched RVMobileInternet.com to provide unbiased information, reviews, resources and tutorials to help us all stay better connected on the road.

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  • RV Accounting Tips – How to Minimize...

    When discussing multi-state income tax, for most working RVers we usually encounter a situation where the RVer has not been paying taxes to various states but perhaps they should. An inherent risk of inviting unwanted attention from state tax authorities already exists. Even though a properly handled multi-state tax scenario might result in paying more income tax overall, there is still plenty of room to make sure no more tax is paid than legally necessary.

    Watch our Webinar with Tim about Multi-State Income

    DISCLAIMER: The information and materials we share in this article are intended for reference only.  The information is designed solely to provide guidance to the readers, it is not intended to be a substitute for someone seeking personalized professional advice based on specific factual situations.  We strongly encourage you to seek the advice of a professional to help you with your specific needs.

    Following are four rules of thumb to keep your multi-state tax bills as low as possible and the tax agents at bay.

    1. Domicile does not matter; where you work does matter

    The first rule of thumb is your domicile in a no-tax state does not provide you carte blanche avoidance of state income tax in any and all states. As you travel about the country, if you spend time in one or more of the 42 states that tax individual income you may be on the hook for income tax despite the fact that you domicile in a no-tax state. (1)

    Each state has its own tax law nuances, but there are similarities from state to state. Income tax states generally focus on one key factor to determine tax liability—if you are physically present in their state (even as a non-resident) while providing income-generating services. In such cases, you are “subject to” income tax. Where you domicile or claim your residency status doesn’t matter. Now, just because you are subject to income tax doesn’t mean you always have to pay income tax, we’ll discuss this in more detail below. First let’s lay some more ground work.

    2. Time matters

    If you spend too much time in a given income-tax state, you can be considered a “resident” for income tax purposes. This is an important distinction. If you are subject to income tax as a non-resident, it is generally on the amount of income you earned during the time you spent in the state. As a resident, you are subject to income tax on your entire year’s-worth of income.

    For example, in Virginia, if you are a non-resident but spend more than 6 months in a given year (does not need to be consecutive) in the state, you are deemed a resident (aka “statutory resident”) for income tax purposes and must pay income tax on your entire year’s income to Virginia…even if you have to pay income tax to other states for time you spent earning an income in those other states! In such cases, the state may offer a credit for tax paid to another state, but this just adds even more complexity to an already difficult situation.

    In Colorado, the statutory residency threshold is also 6 months. In Arizona, it’s 9 months. Interestingly, California—a state known for being aggressive on taxes—allows a non-resident taxpayer to file as a non-resident even if they spend the entire year in their state. TAX TIP: If you plan to spend a significant part of your year in a tax state, make sure you don’t exceed the maximum time allowed before you are statutorily deemed a resident.

    3. Mode of work (usually) does not matter

    Most states do not distinguish between what type of work you do or how you perform your work when determining income tax liability. In other words, there is no difference if you do all of your work over the internet in your RV or spend your time in a client’s or employer’s office building. The primary factor is that you are in a tax state performing services for financial gain or profit. If you are physically in their state, then you are subject to income tax.

    You will not read such specific language in the tax instructions. You must call the state tax authority (often referred to as Department of Revenue, Franchise Tax Board, or Department of Taxation) and ask for further explanation and definition of the terms you read in the tax form instructions. Be wary, tax agents are human too and don’t know everything about their own tax law. On one occasion, I called the Virginia Department of Taxation three times, spoke with a different agent each time, and got three different answers to a particular question.

    I’ve not called every state (yet) to ask about mode of work, but so far Georgia is the only state (and I called more than once to verify) where an individual can work remotely (i.e. over the internet) and not be subject to income tax.

    4. Know the state’s income thresholds

    We’ve used the phrase, “subject to income tax” several times in this article already. Even if you are subject to income tax because you are earning an income in a non-domicile state, you don’t have to pay income tax if your income is below that state’s income threshold. For example, Georgia has a $5,000 income threshold. If you are a non-resident who worked a total of 2 months in Georgia in a given year and earned $4,999 during that time, you are not liable for income tax and are not required to file a Georgia tax return. If you are under the income threshold, it doesn’t matter if you worked exclusively over the internet or spent all of your working hours in your customer’s (or employer’s) office building, there is no Georgia income tax liability. (2) TAX TIP: A good rule of thumb—if you will be spending more than two weeks in a tax state, if possible, schedule your work load and income-generating activities to keep your earnings under the state’s threshold. Save your higher income projects for when you are in no-tax states. Save your “vacation days” for when you are in tax states. (3)

    Be sure to contact your tax advisor if you need help locating state income tax instructions, correctly identifying residency rules and income thresholds, or contacting state tax agents to get clarity about definitions of terms and rules.

    Endnotes:

    1. Eight states do not have an individual income tax on earned income: Alaska, Nevada, Florida, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming.
    2. Georgia does have an exception to the $5,000 threshold. If the income you earned while working in Georgia (regardless of the amount) is more than 5% of your earnings for all services provided in any state during the entire year, then you are liable for Georgia income tax.
    3. Note that it does not matter if you receive payment for services provided after you left the state…the key is that you were performing services for gain or profit during your time in the tax state.

    DISCLAIMER: The information and materials we share in this article are intended for reference only.  The information is designed solely to provide guidance to the readers, it is not intended to be a substitute for someone seeking personalized professional advice based on specific factual situations.  We strongly encourage you to seek the advice of a professional to help you with your specific needs.

    Learn More Accounting Tips for Your Mobile Life Here

    Author

    Tim Ewing - Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

    Tim is a certified public accountant (CPA) and long-time, full-time RVer. Tim has worked with small businesses for more than 30 years handling accounting, taxes and business development. On three different occasions, he has also started his own small businesses from scratch. His depth of experience, in both self-employment and operating small businesses, combined with his intimate familiarity with the needs of RVers, makes Tim a great resource for helping fellow RVers navigate the potential difficulties of working while traveling.

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  • RV Mobile Workspaces: Creating a Mobile Office

    RV Mobile Workspaces: An Office with a View was originally published on www.xscapers.com

    Xscapers is Geared Toward Working Age RVers

    Xscapers is a support network for the Escapees RV club that is geared toward working age RVers. Because of this, many Xscapers have found unique ways to incorporate a comfortable workspace into their RV. This allows them to take care of business, travel, and explore in comfort. 

    If you’ve ever longed for an office with a view, take a look at these RV workspaces. Maybe you’ll find inspiration to take your life on the road and have an ever changing view from your RV office. 

    Xscapers Mobile Offices

    David Goldstein - Marketing Strategist

    What he does:
    David works around 15 hours per week as a marketing strategist for Escapees RV Club.

    Favorite feature:
    He most appreciates having the flexibility to have a standing RV desk when needed. His desk can convert from seated to standing with a few quick adjustments.

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    How it happened:
    David and his wife, Cheryl, removed previous furniture, which included two recliners, from the end of their living room area. They then painted that space a bright, welcoming blue, adding some personality to the small space. Then, David found a convertible standing desk, updated small pieces of décor and purchased a comfortable chair. The entire cost to renovate their RV office was roughly $400-$450, which was offset by selling the furniture they removed.

    Their RV before the couch was removed for David's desk.

    Their space is a great option for those who don’t want to make significant changes that affect resale options. Though they did remove furniture, it isn’t difficult to replace that for the next buyer, or for the next owner to create their own plans for this space. Also, because it is part of their main living area, it is important for them to keep the area neat and integrated into the rest of the living room.

    Denny Winkowski - Client Executive

    What he does:
    Denny works full-time, 40 hours per week, as client executive. He must maintain a rigid schedule, adhering to the Eastern time zone regardless of where his travels take him.

    Favorite feature:
    He and his wife, Veronica, have a unique setup. They own a toy hauler motorhome, with a convertible bunk/patio space. Denny’s RV office is in this area of the rig. When it’s a gorgeous day, he lowers the rear door and creates a patio space that allows fresh air and the sounds of nature to fill his office.

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    How it happened:
    When asked how much this setup cost, Denny was unable to pinpoint an amount. The space is part of the floor plan of the rig, so they didn’t need to do much to arrange his needed equipment and furniture. Also, much of what he uses as a RV desk was re-purposed from other furniture. For example, he has two short metro racks as ‘legs’ for his desk, which provide storage space for his CPU, router, and other equipment. A slab lays across these two racks to create his work surface, which accommodates two monitors, a keyboard, mouse, multi-line phone, cell phone stand, and other tools.

    With the back deck down Denny gets an office with a view!

    Veronica Ibanes - Graphic Designer

    What she does:
    Veronica works 40 hours per week as a graphic designer for a national bank. She, too, must retain a fixed schedule that adheres to Eastern time zone. This often results in early nights and even earlier mornings when she and her husband, Denny, are traveling on the West coast.

    Favorite feature:
    She most appreciates the view from her RV workspace. Her workspace is set up in the front of their rig, at the opposite end from Denny. While she gets to enjoy the view from the front windows, she also has more quiet time. The insulated walls of the rig dampen exterior noises, and if she needs to remove all distractions, she can also pull down the window shades to create a quiet place conducive to focused work.

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    How it happened:
    Her setup is unique compared to her coworkers, but a common approach for many RVers. She uses the passenger captain’s seat as her office chair, facing the front of the rig throughout her work day. Her primary computer is mounted to the cabinet above, and flips down when needed, and folds up to stow away when not. The dashboard serves as a desktop where her keyboard lives, in addition to whatever other tools she needs handy. To her left is a console table that serves as a secondary workspace during the day. Because much of her equipment is provided by her employer, she doesn’t have a rough figure on the cost to set up her workspace. However, tech aside, much of what she uses is either standard in many rigs, or is multi-purpose in that it serves other purposes on non-work days.

    Something worth noting in both Denny’s and Veronica’s workspaces is the level of personalization. Though these spaces must serve a functional purpose, each have included travel mementos and other small touches that make their desks more comfortable and enjoyable, much as you would a standard office. Also, though both have rigorous work schedules, Denny has more freedom to move throughout the rig during the workday during his breaks. Because of this, he takes care of their pets, makes meals/snacks, and assists with other small tasks during the day, allowing Veronica to stay focused. This arrangement has worked well for them in their five years of traveling while working remotely.

    Bernal Schooley - Software Developer

    What he does:
    Bernal is a software developer, working 40 hours per week. He has been working remotely and traveling for approximately one year.

    Favorite feature:
    One of his favorite components of his workspace is his widescreen monitor. Instead of having a multiple-monitor setup, his single monitor can display 2-3 different screens simultaneously, reducing the number of cords and other clutter on his desktop. His wife created a harness of sorts for it, so that on travel days it can be secured to the wall of the rig to prevent it from falling or sliding around.

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    How it happened:
    After considering different options, Bernal and his wife Kathy decided to remove the built-in seating and turn that area into a workspace for each of them. Because he is the primary source of income, his needs were prioritized as they laid out the space. His monitor sits on what used to be the shelf behind their sofa, while all of the cables, internet equipment and such are stored in the cabinet above his workspace. Bernal has a custom keyboard tray built into the shelf so it sits at the perfect height for him. There are several other custom components that he and Kathy have created All of the cables, boxes, etc associated are stored in the overhead cabinet at his workspace. Altogether, it cost an estimated $300 to complete these changes. They have used this setup for approximately a year.

    Though this setup works great for his 9-5, Bernal wishes he had a little more privacy at times. Not from Kathy, but from distractions in general. Currently, when he has a conference call or other important phone call, Kathy puts on noise cancelling headphones and finds things to do elsewhere in the rig to occupy herself. It can also be problematic to do daily maintenance tasks (washing dishes, prepping meals, entertaining the dog, etc) while Bernal is working due to the potential for noise disturbing him.

    Eric & Katherine Larson - Radiation Therapist and Mortgage Policy Writer

    What they do:
    Katherine works forty to fifty hours each week as a mortgage policy writer. She has worked remotely for four years, but has been traveling while working for the past year. Eric works twenty hours per week as a radiation tech. While he does work remotely, much of his work is conducted on-site at varying locations.

    Favorite feature:
    Katherine and her husband share a workspace, so flexibility is very important to them both. She really enjoys being able to ‘change the scenery’ when needed. For example, she spends all of her work time at her desk, whereas Eric works on-site fairly often. So, if she’s bored of looking at one side of the rig, she can easily rearrange her equipment and create a different view for herself without excluding Eric’s needs for space.

    Previous
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    How it happened:
    Their workspace is very small, as Eric and Katherine currently share the dinette in their Class B motorhome, but it has exactly what they need. It’s also very comfortable- Katherine sits in the driver’s seat, turned to face the dinette table. This allows her to sit back and relax at times, as well as immerse herself in her work. She uses an ultrawide monitor that is mounted to an articulating arm, so she can move and rotate her monitor to her needs, as well as maintain comfortable posture, making her long hours easier to endure. Instead of a CPU, she has this monitor wired into her laptop, allowing her to get maximum use of her work surface. All of the windows are covered in Reflectix, both for added insulation and isolation and privacy during work hours. A skylight above her seat allows natural light in, which helps conserve electricity as well as gives her workspace a nice ambiance. Eric’s setup consists of an iPad and a laptop, both of which are used daily. Because they are often on-site with him, too, none of his equipment is affixed to their workspace.

    Melinda Collings - Business Intelligence Developer

    What she does:
    Melinda is a Business Intelligence Developer, working forty hours per week, fully remote.

    Favorite feature:
    She most appreciates that her workspace is secure, and doesn’t need to be put away every time they move. The desk is bolted to the floor, and her chair slides snugly under it. All parts are located on the same slide, so no need to shift things around when closing the slide for travel!

    How it happened:
    They created the space by removing their dinette and installing a custom-built desk. This setup is particularly nifty because the desk was built to accommodate a dog crate in addition to providing a workspace. It is made of plywood and stained blue to match the custom dining room table. “It cost us about $50 to make the desk, only because an amazingly talented master cabinet maker gifted us the construction of it.” Her equipment consists of dual monitors, an ergonomic keyboard and mouse, all of which fit comfortably on the desktop. She enjoys ample natural lighting thanks to the windows surrounding her space, including an entertaining view of her hummingbird feeder.

    Lisa & Dan Brown - Bloggers/Brand Ambassadors

    What they do:
    Lisa and Dan work approximately 25 hours per week, earning income from blogging, writing, influencing, and serving as brand ambassadors.

    Favorite feature:
    They love all of their workspace. “When we work, we get to look out the back window at our new view which inspires creativity and free thought,” says Lisa. They have also incorporated pet beds into their workspace, giving their cats a place to rest and keep them company while working.

    Previous
    Next

    How it happened:
    Lisa and Dan recognized the need for a workspace that would accommodate them collaborating as well as working separately. They made plans to carve out space in their 41’ 5th wheel that included removing furniture and replacing it with more functional pieces.

    Like many RVs, their living room area consisted of a sleeper sofa, recliners, and an entertainment center.
    Upon deciding to remove the sofa, they began looking for the perfect desk for that space. They selected a table from Ikea that would allow them to use both as a workspace and as a place to entertain guests. Though it doesn’t have the storage they would have gotten with a traditional desk, they have appreciated its versatility.

    To freshen up the space, they took on a total-rig update with new paint, new flooring, new décor, and more, which included their new workspace. Their now flexible workspace cost them around $600, including the desk, two chairs, and desk accessories.

    Before their interior upgrades.

    Travis and Melanie Carr - President and VP of Escapees RV Club

    What they do:
    They are the President and Vice President of Escapees RV Club. They also serve on the Board of Directors for the organization, directly manage several projects, and play a role in the daily operations. They both work 40 hours a week or more.

    Favorite feature:
    Their favorite part about their setup is the ability to place their large monitors for their desktop computers on the ledge that runs along the side of our RV. In previous setups, they always had to have small laptops to save counter space which were not very efficient for the way they work. While they oversee and manage separate projects, the majority of their time is spent working together. Being able to have a setup that puts them side-by-side is advantageous for when they need to talk through something or hop on a meeting together. Overall, the setup is quick and easy. The ledge also keeps space open for other things like the dining table, so they have almost nothing that needs to be moved other than a keyboard and mouse.

    Previous
    Next

    How it happened:
    A little luck and a little trial and error! This is their third RV and they have always struggled to find a comfortable working space. When they first transitioned to part-timing in the Monaco Knight, they were fearful about the layout not working because the only options were centered around the dining area. They always aim to not modify their RV’s for resale value, so they tend to work within the limitations of the RV. This also means they did not have to put any money into the workspace.

    The area where Travis works was already semi-set up for working with a pullout drawer to put a keyboard or laptop in and a pullout for a printer underneath. That kept his keyboard/cords and other items off of the countertop space and then he placed his monitor on the ledge. There is also plenty of cabinet space underneath the ledge for him to place his desktop tower. Melanie uses a desktop iMac computer, which gets placed on the ledge and the keyboard and mouse are small and used on the table. Travis does not have to move anything during travel days—his monitor rides on the ledge and Melanie just unplugs her iMac and places it on the bed while traveling.

    Brandon Hatcher and Kerensa Durr - RV Educators and Content Strategy Directors

    What they do:
    They are RV educators as well as part time content strategy directors for Escapees RV Club. They live full-time in their RV and work 40+ hours a week. 

    Favorite feature:
    Their favorite part about their setup is that they didn’t have to make many modifications to their RV to make it work. This is their second RV and they searched hard for an RV that provides a good workspace with nice light and good airflow so they are comfortable working even when camping off grid. 

    Previous
    Next

    How it happened:
    After finding a floorplan that they liked and would work well as a mobile office they made some minor changes to make the space work better for them. They removed the fronts of the drawers under the counter tops and put hinges on them so that they can fold down out of the way. Then they made wood tops for the drawers to serve as keyboard trays. 
    Their computers are kept in a cabinet down below. They added cooling fans to the side of the cabinet to make sure the computers stay cool, and they drilled hoes in the counter top to allow them to keep most of the wires out of site. When they travel the only thing they have to do is unplug the monitors and put them down on the floor. In the future they will be changing out the counter tops, blinds and decor to make the interior look a little less “RV”.

    Jessica Schultz - UX (web) Designer

    What she does:
    Jessica is a UX designers for  non-profit organization. She works 40 hours a week.  

    Favorite feature:
    The flexibility of standing or sitting, and the fact that it all packs away nicely when she’s not working.

    Previous
    Next

    How it happened:

    Sitting on the settee was terrible for her back, so she removed half of the settee and swapped it with a supportive chair. Even in a nice chair, sitting all day wasn’t ideal, so she asked her uncle to help her concoct a non-destructive way to hang my monitor at a standing height. This gives her multiple work options in her RV. 

    Additional things that make this work:

    •  WeBoost cell booster 
    • AT&T hotspot
    • Adjustable laptop stand
    • Ergodriven anti-fatigue mat

    Do you have an RV workspace that you would like to share? Send us some pics and information about how your work space works for you.

    Send Us Your Work Space

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  • Tips for Transitioning to Remote Work

    Hitting the open road and traveling the world before our time runs out is a dream chased by many for good reasons. Some things cannot be learned or experienced inside your comfort zone. To gain more understanding of the world around us, new places must be explored first-hand. A lifestyle such as this has its challenges, but for those of us that still need to earn income while doing so the challenges are greater. Some find it easier, as they are self-employed or have already secured a remote position, but for others it’s not as simple. Transitioning from an office environment offers its own unique difficulties, such as convincing our supervisors and peers that productivity and communication will continue, whether we are seated in a cubicle or perched on the side of a mountain. While every job circumstance is different, here is some brief advice that can help you achieve that dream.

    Start Small

    When the opportunity to mention discuss working remotely presents itself, jump on it! This may take the form of a positive employment review, an annual budget discussion, or a conversation about work/life balance. Try not to make it seem like a joke, but throw the idea out there and see what kind of response you get. Use the conversation to gauge how difficult the convincing will be. If there are others in your workplace that work from home, ask them for input on how they transitioned to gather advice for approaching your boss so you can begin to build your game plan. Keep in mind, it may take more than a few hints for your employer to give your suggestion serious consideration. Mentally prepare yourself and make sure this is something you really want.

    Benefits of Remote Working

    Build your case. Create a script of how you think the conversation will go, and thoroughly research data to address concerns that you think may arise. It may seem as if working from home may be more unproductive than the office environment but numerous studies have shown the exact opposite. Ever heard the term “A happy employee is a productive employee”? Well, it is true. Giving up the rush hour commute equates to less stress and more money for the employee. Lowered fuel and maintenance costs keeps more of each paycheck in the pocket. Avoiding the dreaded rush hour also results in increased productivity and an improved sense of job satisfaction. When you start the day with a hot cup of coffee and the comforts of home, you aren’t still thinking about the bad drivers along your commute, or how someone took your spot in the company parking lot. But the remote worker isn’t the only one saving some dollars. Employers also enjoy savings through lowered overhead expenses. These may include lowered or nonexistent lease payments, due to needing less square footage. With that comes a drop in utility expenses, as well as fewer conversations debating the quality of the office coffee supply versus the cost of unlimited coffee consumption. It has been estimated that the average employer saves about $10,000 per remote worker.

    Verify Yourself

    Take advantage of a holiday or sick day and learn what struggles you face with remote working. You never know until you give it a try. Then, rinse and repeat until you work out the kinks. Ask for a trial period and use that time to show that you have the work ethic to manage your time and productivity, taking part in teamwork without making your position an inconvenience to others. The goal here is to give your boss and coworkers the sense that you are working in the office even though you are not. The moment it becomes an inconvenience, the harder it will be to convince them this transition is effective for everyone.

    Compromise

    How much is it worth to you? Be willing to compromise. Working remotely is a privilege, not a right. You may lose some perks in the transition, so make sure you enter the conversation ready to negotiate. Office equipment may be the first to go- some companies aren’t willing to send you home with company property. This means you’ll need to provide your own printer, file storage, desk, etc. If your employer agrees to let you work from home, they may still expect you to stay near the office, within a reasonable traveling distance. Be prepared to discuss your wants and needs in regard to this- are you willing to split your time between office and home? Do you plan to work ‘from home’ or do you plan to travel and work? Know what you want, and where you’re willing to compromise. Demand too much, and you may find yourself working from home… permanently.

    Got Leverage?

    If you have history with the company, or are a difficult talent to replace, use this to your advantage. But, don’t set ultimatums unless you are willing to stand by your word. If you are willing sacrifice it all to accomplish your dream, then by all means, go for it. Often, employers will come to see your value, and open their minds to working with you in order to retain your skills and expertise, though this process may take time. Replacing valuable staff is expensive, and the learning curve for your replacement is unpredictable. How much you push it in your negations is up to you as it can lead to a death spiral for an unhappy work relationship.

    Over Compensate

    If your fellow coworkers are still showing up in the office, know that you will have to put in the extra effort to stay involved. Don’t let them enviously think you are on a permanent vacation! Use phone or video calls when you can to remain part of the office dynamic. Emails are great for relaying information and keeping everyone involved but they lack personality and can trigger a breakdown in conversation. Always be available as if you were in the office and treat conversation the same, otherwise the moment you are urgently needed and are not available you will confirm the assumption that you are kayaking or getting drinks at the local pub.

    Be an Asset

    Set goals and create daily tasks to align yourself with the company. Show that you are a valuable worker by submitting progress reports and complete tasks consistently on time. Remember, no one will know what you are working on unless you tell them. Strive to bring new ideas to table and inspire new projects to better the business. Going above and beyond, along with maintaining your motivation, will go a great distance to combat any negative feelings your co-workers and boss may have.

    Use Tools to Your Advantage

    Research and test out new programs and tools that will help you stay productive and collaborate with your co-workers. A project or task management program can help you stay on top of your game while keeping other team members current on your daily work progress. Utilize a video conference program to create in person meetings to discuss projects or brainstorm. A chat program is also great for quick interactions, much like walking into someone’s office. You and your team will find many of these tools help keep you engaged while also improving overall office environment and productivity.

    The Focus Bubble

    For those that don’t have strict work hours, use your motivation to your advantage no matter when it is. I call this the focus bubble. Most of us can’t maintain 100% focus 24 hours a day. Learn your habits, and take advantage of your most focused time to accomplish big tasks. You will find that during this window, you will complete goals and projects in much less time than you will when you’re struggling to focus. This works both ways- there are times when we are just not feeling it, so take that time to do something relaxing and rejuvenate the batteries.The good news is this bubble will come more often than it did in the office due to fewer distractions.

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  • RV Accounting Tips – Can you Deduct...

    Taxes and Accounting for Full-Time RVers Working on the Road

    |By Lindsey Nubern and Adam Nubern|

    DISCLAIMER: The information and materials we share in this article are intended for reference only.  As the information is designed solely to provide guidance to the readers, it is not intended to be a substitute for someone seeking personalized professional advice based on specific factual situations.  Therefore, we strongly encourage you to seek the advice of a professional to help you with your specific needs.

    Phone and data plans are essential to operating mobile businesses from our RVs. Since we use our phone and data for business, can we deduct these monthly expenses on our taxes?

    It depends on your situation. Let’s dig in deeper.

    The IRS’ standard for a business deduction requires the item or service to be an ordinary and necessary expense for business.

    This means if you use your phone and data to run your business, you should be able to deduct these expenses on your taxes. But, of course, there are parameters.

    The IRS will only allow you to deduct the portion of your phone and data plan used to operate your business.

    So, if you have a dedicated phone and data plan exclusively used for work, you can deduct your entire bill from your taxes.  

    However, most of us use our phone and data plans for both business and for personal use. We take a break and check in on social media during the day and stream Netflix while listening to campground crickets at night.

    For those of us who use data for both work and play, calculating business deductions is way more complicated.   

    We can only deduct the percentage of our data plan used for business purposes.

    How do you calculate the percentage? Track your usage.

    How to Track Business vs. Personal Use

    For every business deduction you claim on your taxes, you must have detailed records for proving the expenses for the deduction.

    So, to deduct a portion of your data plan used for business, you must be able to prove the business usage.

    Here are some ways of how you may be able to calculate your business deduction.

    Data Usage:

    Depending on your data provider, you may be able to view how much data you use each day. Take a look in your online account and see what information your provider shows for tracking your usage. You may be able to see how much data is used during business hours compared to after business hours.  

    If you can view this information, keep a record of how much data is used for business versus personal use.  Once tax season arrives, only deduct the portion of your data plan used for business.

    Phone Usage:

    Again, depending on your provider, you may be able to track phone numbers and time spent on business phone calls versus personal calls on specific phone lines.

    If you can view this information, keep a record of how much phone time is used for business versus personal use.  Once tax season arrives, only deduct the portion of your phone plan used for business.

    Use Averages:

    Tracking your usage every month is tedious. Your unique work situation may allow you to use averages to ease the tracking burden.

    If you have consistent work each month, track yourself for one month and apply that business percentage for each month of the year.

    If you have predictable busy periods and slow periods during the year, track your business usage for each period. This gives you a different business percentage to apply to your monthly data bill throughout the year.

     

    Whatever way you decide to track your usage, make sure to keep detailed records showing and explaining your calculations for your deduction claim.

    Example Business Deduction Calculation

    Here’s an example.

    Kyle is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) working from his RV full-time. He has predictable busy and slow seasons throughout the year. His busy season is four months during tax season from January to April. He works consistent hours during busy season from 8 AM to 8 PM six days a week. His slow season is May to December where he works five days a week Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM. 

    Kyle rarely uses his cell phone to call clients. He uses Google Hangout, Skype, or Facetime to call clients using his data plan. He also uses data to email clients, work on their accounting issues, and prepare their taxes. So, Kyle is only concerned about deducting a percentage of his data plan from his taxes.

    With Kyle’s data plan provider, he pays $200 each month for a 20 GB package he uses for business and personal use.

    Kyle tracks his business usage. He sees he uses an average of 8 GB of data per slow month from May to December. For his busy four months from January to April, he uses an average of 12 GB of data per month.

    Here’s how Kyle calculates a business deduction for his data plan:

     

    Slow months:

    8 GB used for business  /  20 GB plan   =  .4  =  40% of monthly bill used for business

    $200 monthly bill  x  .4  =  $80 of monthly bill used for business

    40% or $80 of Kyle’s monthly data plan bill is used for business each slow month

     

    Busy months:

    12 GB used for business  /  20 GB plan  =  .6  =  60 % of monthly bill used for business

    $200 monthly bill  x  .6  =  $120 of monthly bill used for business

    60% or $120 of Kyle’s monthly data plan bill is used for business per busy month

     

    Total deduction for slow months= 8 months x $80= $640

    Total deduction for busy months= 4 months x $120= $480

    Total Business Deduction Claimed= $640 + $480= $1,120

    Kyle claims $1,120 for data used for business purposes for the year. He enters this amount on his tax forms.

    Where to Claim Your Deduction?

    Once you calculate your deduction amount, you enter the claim on your tax forms.

    If you are self-employed, you enter the deduction on Schedule C, Line 25 entitled Utilities.

    If you are an employee and you are itemizing your deductions, you enter the deduction  on Schedule A, Line 21 entitled Unreimbursed Employee Expenses.

    Other Deductions for Items and Services Used for both Business & Personal

    You may use this rationale for calculating business deductions for other items you use for both work and personal use like hotspot purchases, computer purchases, cell phone purchases, and other expenses.

    However, some items may fall into another category of tax reporting called Listed Property. We will explain how to report these items in another article when we address the complicated wonders of depreciation.

    Remember to always keep detailed tracking records of your business versus personal usage to prove your deductions.

    Work with a Professional CPA

    Every full-time RVer’s situation is different and tax law can be confusing. Consult your professional CPA with your unique situation to get more clarity on what you can deduct from your taxes.

    Need a CPA? Xscapers works with CPA Adam Nubern of Nuventure CPA. Connect with Adam here.

    DISCLAIMER: The information and materials we share in this article are intended for reference only.  As the information is designed solely to provide guidance to the readers, it is not intended to be a substitute for someone seeking personalized professional advice based on specific factual situations.  Therefore, we strongly encourage you to seek the advice of a professional to help you with your specific needs.

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  • Working from Your RV in Multiple States...

    | By Lindsey Nubern and Adam Nubern |

    DISCLAIMER: The information and materials we share in this article are intended for reference only.  As the information is designed solely to provide guidance to the readers, it is not intended to be a substitute for someone seeking personalized professional advice based on specific factual situations.  Therefore, we strongly encourage you to seek the advice of a professional to help you with your specific needs.

    As full-time travelers, we’re living the dream! We’ve chosen a life of endless road trips fueled by the freedom to work as we go. One of the best perks of our lifestyle? We can change our office view at any time from the east coast to the west coast and all that’s in between.

    However, come tax season, our travels and working in many states may create more tax returns to file.

    Why? When we make income while working in states other than where we’re domiciled, we may be required to file additional tax returns such as a nonresident tax return. Each state we work in may have rules taxing nonresident’s income earned within their state borders.

    So, which states do you need to complete a nonresident state income tax return? It depends.

    It depends on your unique facts and circumstances and it depends on each state’s tax rules. Every state handles taxing nonresident income differently.

    In this article, we’ll show you how to do the research so that you can determine which states you may need to complete a nonresident income tax return for.

    How States Tax Nonresident Income Differently

    Since each state approaches taxing nonresident income differently, it’s important to individually research each state you’ve traveled through and did work within.

    Also, be prepared for rules to change from year-to-year. Currently, states are working to figure out how to tax people that perform services using the internet.

     

    Here are keywords to use when searching online to help you find nonresident income tax rules for each state:

    1. State Name, e.g. “Georgia” or “California”
    2. Department of Revenue
      1. Not all states name their tax organization the Department of Revenue. It may be different like California’s Franchise Tax Board or New Jersey’s Division of Taxation.
    3. Nonresident return
    4. Source income
    5. Physically present

    Once you find the tax rules for nonresidents, take your time and read them carefully.

    As a forewarning, these rules can be confusing and difficult to understand. When in doubt, call the state’s tax department and ask about your specific situation to gain clarity and peace of mind.

    The state may provide great news relieving you from completing an income tax return like Georgia did for Nubern. Or, they may affirm you must pay income taxes for performing services while in their state like California.

    Georgia:

    Nubern finds Georgia’s nonresident income tax return rules on the Georgia Department of Revenue’s (GDR) website here. https://dor.georgia.gov/filing-residents-nonresidents-part-year-residents-and-military-personnel

    GDR’s website states:

    Nubern reads the rules. The guidance states that those “who work in Georgia… and are required to file a Federal income tax return, are required to file a Georgia income tax return.”

    Nubern feels he satisfies both statements, because he physically worked within Georgia and he is required to file a Federal income tax return.

    But, he’s still uncertain, so Nubern calls the GDR directly to get clarity.

    The GDR representative on the phone clarifies the state of Georgia’s definition of source income.

    If you are not domiciled in Georgia, Georgia will want an income tax return if you have some form of source income from Georgia. Source income from Georgia includes wages, Georgia lottery winnings, income from flow through entities, rents, etc.

    The GDR representative states that performing services through the internet while being physically present in Georgia is not defined as Georgia source income by the State of Georgia.

    In conclusion, the GDR confirmed Nubern does not need to complete a Georgia nonresident income tax return.

    Whew! What a relief!

    However, Nubern would have never been able to determine this without making the phone call.

    Whenever you are uncertain, call and talk to a state representative explaining your specific situation so they can give you an accurate answer.

    Now onto California.

    California:

    Next, Nubern researches California’s tax rules. He searches online with the keywords “California nonresident income tax return.”

    He finds the California Franchise Tax Board (CFTB) details their rules on taxing nonresidents here.

    Researching California’s rules on their website is a step-by-step process. Together, we’ll walk through what the website explains below.

    First, the CFTB defines who is a California resident. Then, they affirm Nubern’s tax status as a nonresident by stating, “A nonresident is any individual who is not a California resident.” You can see this below.

    Second, you can see below that the CFTB defines how California taxes nonresidents “only on income from California sources.”

    From this, Nubern’s new question is: What are California sources?

    The CTFB website answers this question as we work down the page. We’re given clarity on what California defines as source income when referring to compensation and business income situations.

    For folks receiving compensation through wages and salaries, California states source income is dictated by where the services are performed.

    They explain the source of income doesn’t matter where your employer is located, when your payment is issued or your location when the payment is received.

    In other words, California determines source income to be where you physically are while you are doing your income generating activity.

    Nubern continues reading down the website’s page and finds the CFTB states how they will tax him as a self-employed individual with Business Income.

    In this section, the CTFB states that any profession carried on within California borders is considered taxable California source income.

    In conclusion, Nubern needs to complete a California nonresident income tax return.

    The return will report the income he received while he was physically present in California and doing work that would result in any income for his business; even though he may have billed and received the income when he was outside California.

    Lessons on Source Income

    ​First, this example shows how states define source income in very unique ways.

    Georgia and California use the same terminology of “source income”, but have different interpretations of the definition. The different interpretations show how Nubern’s same accounting services can be taxed differently by each state.

    Second, it’s important to know that being physically present within a state, for even one day, while doing business could have an impact on your requirement to file a nonresident income tax return.

    The other 48 states have their own nonresident tax rules and definitions to abide by.

    Next, we’ll show you how you can research each state’s rules yourself.

    How To Do the Research Yourself

    Since each state approaches taxing nonresident income differently, it’s important to individually research each state you’ve traveled through and did work within.

    Also, be prepared for rules to change from year-to-year. Currently, states are working to figure out how to tax people that perform services using the internet.

     

    Here are keywords to use when searching online to help you find nonresident income tax rules for each state:

    1. State Name, e.g. “Georgia” or “California”
    2. Department of Revenue
      1. Not all states name their tax organization the Department of Revenue. It may be different like California’s Franchise Tax Board or New Jersey’s Division of Taxation.
    3. Nonresident return
    4. Source income
    5. Physically present

    Once you find the tax rules for nonresidents, take your time and read them carefully.

    As a forewarning, these rules can be confusing and difficult to understand. When in doubt, call the state’s tax department and ask about your specific situation to gain clarity and peace of mind.

    The state may provide great news relieving you from completing an income tax return like Georgia did for Nubern. Or, they may affirm you must pay income taxes for performing services while in their state like California.

    Tips to Prepare for Tax Season

    Since each state handles taxing nonresidents differently, we have tips to help you be prepared for tax season.

    To determine if you need to complete a state income tax return, you may need to provide your facts of how many days you were physically present in a state and/or how much income you made while in a state.

    To do this, maintain up-to-date records that include:

    1. A travel log
      1. Include the dates and locations of your travels.
      2. Find an example travel log here.
    2. Income reports that detail how much income you made in each state.

    Keeping an accurate travel log and detailed income reports will save you time and stress of trying to remember a full-year’s worth of travels and income during tax season.

    What are the Best States to Travel and Work In?

    To avoid the complications of having to complete nonresident state income tax returns, you could strategically travel and work in states that don’t tax income.

    Now, that’s a unique way to plan a road trip!

    According to Bankrate.com, seven U.S. states currently do not tax income:

    1. Alaska
    2. Florida
    3. Nevada
    4. South Dakota
    5. Texas
    6. Washington
    7. Wyoming

    Also, Tennessee and New Hampshire do not tax wages or business income, but they do tax dividend and interest income.

    Work with a Professional CPA

    Every full-time RVer’s situation is different and tax law can be confusing. Consult your professional CPA with your unique situation to get more clarity on which states you need to complete nonresident tax returns.

    Need a CPA?

    Xscapers works with CPA Adam Nubern of Nuventure CPA. Connect with Adam here.

    ​DISCLAIMER: The information and materials we share in this article are intended for reference only. As the information is designed solely to provide guidance to the readers, it is not intended to be a substitute for someone seeking personalized professional advice based on specific factual situations. Therefore, we strongly encourage you to seek the advice of a professional to help you with your specific needs.​

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