Understanding Pay Rates

Pay Rate Structure

Understanding how rates work helps you maximize your earnings.

Your Base Rate

The hourly rate you set in your profile is your desired base rate - what you want to earn for regular hours.

Bill Rate vs Pay Rate

Pay Rate (What You Earn)

• Your actual hourly compensation
• What you take home (before taxes)

Bill Rate (What Customer Pays)

• Total hourly cost to customer
• Includes your pay + fees + overhead

The Difference

Automate America adds a margin to cover:

• Platform operations
• Support services
• Insurance and compliance
• Payment processing

Overtime

Overtime policies vary by contract, but typically:

Standard Overtime

• Hours over 40/week: 1.5x pay rate
• Hours over 8/day (some states): 1.5x pay rate

Double Time

• Hours over 12/day (some contracts)
• Weekend/holiday work (some contracts)

Always confirm overtime policies in your SSA.

Per Diem

For travel contracts, you may receive:

Lodging Per Diem

• Covers hotel/housing costs
• Paid directly or reimbursed

M&IE (Meals & Incidentals)

• Daily allowance for food
• Typically $59-79/day depending on location
• Based on GSA rates

Rate Negotiation

You can negotiate:

• Base hourly rate
• Overtime rates
• Per diem amounts
• Expense reimbursement

Negotiate during the offer stage, before signing the SSA.

Rate Changes

Once a contract is signed, rates typically can't change. For extensions or new contracts, you can negotiate new rates.