Moving before your first payday: map the income gap

Confirm what and when you will receive

Use the employer’s confirmed pay schedule and clarify whether the first payment covers a full or partial period. Keep gross contractual pay distinct from an expected net amount; this guide does not calculate your tax position. Do not enter a full monthly salary as cash available on arrival when the employer has not confirmed that payment date or amount.

Build the gap period

List living expenses and one-off arrival payments up to the first confirmed payday. Include continuing obligations in the departure city where applicable. Illustration: 900 of living expenses plus a 700 deposit requires 1,600 before a later payment, even though only 900 is an expense if the deposit is fully refundable. Track payment timing rather than subtracting a monthly income average.

Test reimbursement separately

If the employer offers relocation support, distinguish an advance from reimbursement after submitting receipts. Ask which costs qualify and when funds become available. A promise of later reimbursement does not automatically fund an earlier booking. Keep uncertain amounts out of the confirmed balance and avoid exposing employment contracts or payroll details in public posts.

Sources and further reading

• Lifovra — methodology and limitations