>>>>>>If they need someone ASAP I would ask them for a bump up in that $40/hour.
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>>>>>I never agree to any amount until I understand what they need me to do. This true for any position. The staffing agent told me this was what they were saying they would pay. I would sending my bill the staffing agency and they would charge the client. Also, I don't currently know how much the prior person was earning. After I have a chance to talk with the client tonight I should have a better idea as to what is expected of me. Then, I will consider negotiating the terms of the contract.
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>>>>>It has been a long time since I have worked as a independent contractor. And I have never had a middle man involved in the contract agreement. Before I agree to anything, I need to see their contract. Despite all the hype around this, I have not agreed to anything. Too many "What If" to answer. Too many sacrifices in just the moving itself.
>>>>>
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>>>>Good idea. You are probably getting an incomplete (if not distorted) view of the situation from the staffing agency. They are likely charging 2-3 times as much as what they are presenting to you, and as a 1099, they are getting it at very little risk. So, if you're on the fence, you might be able to negotiate a better rate and make the decision easier.
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>>>I agree. The more think about it, the more unanswered question arise. I have been informed that the client is to have a decision on Monday. If I am selected, then the ball is in my court. Much to think about over the weekend. Besides, they are not the only fish in the pond.
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>>Never let them rush you into a contract that requires relocating!! If they say they require a decision from you by Monday that means they either think you are the best choice or you are the only choice. You have leverage.
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>>Do your footwork. VERIFY what it will cost to live there - make no assumptions. The rate they are quoting is low for local contracts - you could be in a world of hurt if you commit to the contract, get there, and find out you can't afford it.
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>>Been there. Done that.
>
>Good advise. Play with the Cost Of Living Calculator on PayScale.com, and using the prior pay rate I was receiving at my prior job, I would have to be earning about twice as much in Honolulu. Now considering the fact that at the time I excepted the prior position, I was married and Angela required constant medical care, we pretty much broke even every month (4-6k / month). Now that I am on my own again, I require far less (1k-2k / month). From my calculation I should be able to survive on the $40 / hour, providing I work 40+ hours a day. This one of the concerns I have about this position. Because it is being offered as 1099, and the duties is maintenance on existing (obsoleting) application, it could turn out to be a "work only when there is something to do" type a job. Not to mention as the months roll on, the need for my services could start to dwindle, and probably will.
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>Now I am really starting to get concerned.

Make them (whomever you are signing a contract with) put in the contract that you WILL be paid for 40 hour/week unless you are unable to work that many hours (sick/time off). Don't take their word for it.