How to Know When It’s Time to Raise Your CRNA Rates
One of the greatest advantages of being a 1099 CRNA is control—control over your schedule, contracts, and most importantly, your rates. But many CRNAs hesitate to raise their rates, even when demand, experience, or cost of living clearly justify it.
Whether you're afraid of losing opportunities or just unsure when to make the move, here's the truth: not raising your rates at the right time can quietly cost you thousands of dollars each year.
At CBFC, we help CRNAs take a strategic approach to both financial planning and contract negotiation. Here’s how to know when it’s time to increase your rates—and how to do it without burning bridges.
1. Your Expenses Have Gone Up—But Your Rates Haven’t
Inflation affects everyone—including independent CRNAs. From malpractice premiums and travel costs to housing, licensing, and everyday essentials, your cost of doing business rises every year.
If your take-home pay is shrinking despite working the same hours, it’s a clear signal: your rates may need to adjust to keep pace.
2. You Have More Experience, Credentials, or Specializations
Have you added more skills to your toolbelt? Earned a certification in OB, pediatrics, or regional blocks? Gained years of experience or worked in high-pressure environments?
Your expertise has grown—which means your value has, too. And facilities should compensate accordingly.
A CRNA with five years of experience, multi-state licensure, and a calm presence in high-acuity cases simply brings more to the table than a new grad. Make sure your rate reflects that growth.
3. Your Schedule Is Full and You're Turning Down Work
This one is simple economics: If demand exceeds supply, your rates should rise.
If you’re constantly booked, saying no to contracts, or working overtime, you’ve got leverage. Raising your rate allows you to:
Work fewer hours while maintaining income
Take on more selective or better-aligned assignments
Increase your savings rate for goals like retirement or early financial independence
4. You're Undercharging Compared to Market Rates
Rates vary by region, facility, and shift type—but if you're being paid significantly less than CRNAs with similar experience, it's time to reevaluate.
Do your research:
Talk to recruiters (they know what facilities are paying)
Network with other CRNAs in your region
Compare agency and travel contract offerings
If you’re at the low end of the pay scale, you may not be seen as a “deal”—you may be seen as undervalued.
5. You Feel Resentment or Burnout Creeping In
Here’s one that doesn’t show up on a spreadsheet: if you feel undervalued, overworked, or burned out, it may be tied to how you’re pricing your time.
Raising your rate can reestablish a healthier work-life balance—and remind you that your skills and time are worth protecting.
How to Raise Your Rates the Right Way
Raising your rates doesn’t have to be awkward. Here’s how to do it professionally:
Be direct and confident: “I’m updating my rates based on market demand and experience.”
Give notice in advance when renewing contracts
Highlight the value you bring: reliability, flexibility, low complication rates, etc.
Be prepared to negotiate—but don’t feel obligated to say yes to every offer
CBFC Helps CRNAs Align Their Rates With Their Value
At CBFC, we help 1099 CRNAs take a strategic approach to rate setting. That includes:
Understanding your cost of living and tax impact
Building income forecasts based on rate increases
Helping you plan for retirement, time off, or debt payoff with your new income
You shouldn’t have to guess what you’re worth—we’ll help you calculate it and plan around it.
Final Thoughts
Raising your rates isn’t about being greedy—it’s about being strategic, fair, and future-focused. If your skills, workload, or costs have changed, your rate should reflect it.
Not sure if your CRNA rate is where it should be?
Book a consultation with CBFC and let’s help you align your income with your expertise—and your long-term goals.
