Physicians planning a move can use relocation assistance services to reduce stress and save time by following clear steps that guide you through employer benefits, logistics, and finances.
Start by reviewing your employer’s relocation policy and written offer so you understand eligible expenses, reimbursement caps, and approval processes; ask HR for a checklist and timeline.
Ask about home purchase or sale assistance, direct house-hunting support, temporary housing coverage, and any negotiated realtor or mortgage services that the employer provides.
Confirm whether the employer contracts with specific movers or provides a relocation coordinator who handles quotes, inventory, and scheduling; get at least two independent moving estimates to compare services and insurance levels.
Contact state medical boards and hospitals early to accelerate licensure, credentialing, and hospital privileges; supply your documents promptly and use the relocation coordinator to track progress and deadlines.
Include your partner or family in planning by researching local job markets, school districts, daycare options, and commute times so you can weigh tradeoffs when choosing a neighborhood.
Consult a tax advisor to determine whether moving expenses are taxable under current law, to document employer reimbursements properly, and to set up accounts for expense tracking and receipts.
Create a detailed moving timeline that lists decluttering, packing, utility transfers, address updates, and key dates for orientation and first shifts; schedule a move date that gives you buffer time before clinical duties start.
Keep digital copies of contracts, moving inventories, receipts, and communications; confirm payment schedules, advance amounts, and whether reimbursements are paid directly to vendors or to you.
Set appointments for local licensing if required, transfer medical records and insurance, update DEA registration as needed, register with professional societies, and close out relocation claims by submitting final documentation on time.
Use this guide as a checklist and adapt items to your specific contract and family needs so you can focus on clinical responsibilities once the move is complete.
