Just start by reading your offer letter and any attached relocation policy so you know what is explicitly included, what requires pre-approval, and the timelines for submission.
You should request a written list of covered expenses, acceptable vendors, and whether the package is a lump sum, direct payment, or reimbursement; get those details added to your contract when possible.
Understand tax implications for each benefit type: direct vendor payment is often treated differently than a lump-sum relocation allowance, employer-paid gross-ups can offset taxes on taxable payments, and moving expense deductions are limited for non-military employees under current law, so consult a tax advisor before accepting a structure.
Ask for specific extras that commonly help physicians, such as temporary housing, house-hunting trips, home sale loss coverage, mortgage assistance, storage, and spousal job search support; quantify dollar caps and duration limits for each item and get them in writing.
Get multiple written quotes from moving companies and compare bundled services versus à la carte pricing; schedule an in-home estimate, confirm insurance and valuation options, and prepare an itemized inventory to support future claims.
Watch for repayment or clawback clauses tied to leaving before a set period and negotiate reduced repayment schedules, prorated terms, or carve-outs for termination without cause; consider tying relocation payout timing to your start date or first paycheck if that improves cash flow.
Confirm the reimbursement process with HR: ask which forms and receipts are required, whether expenses must be pre-approved, who signs approvals, and the typical turnaround time for reimbursement so you can plan upfront spending accordingly.
Consult a tax professional and your personal financial planner to model after-tax value of competing offers and to plan timing for home sale or purchase; keep a relocation folder with contracts, receipts, moving inventories, and all HR correspondence until final accounting and any tax filings are complete.
Use a short checklist before you move: signed agreement with itemized benefits, approved vendors, multiple mover quotes, documented receipts, submitted reimbursements, clear repayment terms, and confirmation of licensing and credential transfers to ensure you maximize the relocation package.
