Your newcomer checklist

The 17 things that make life in the U.S. easier, in a sensible order. Tick them off as you go.

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First steps

Join your community on USA Club
Done the moment you sign up. (ticks itself automatically) Learn how →
Introduce yourself
Post or reply in your community's welcome thread. (ticks itself automatically)
Get a U.S. phone number
A prepaid plan is fine to start. Learn how →
Keep copies of your important documents
Photos in a private cloud folder, originals safe at home. Learn how →

IDs & money

Get a Social Security number or ITIN
You need one for work, taxes and banking. Learn how →
Get a state ID or driver license
Rules vary by state. Learn how →
Open a bank or credit union account
Credit unions are often the friendliest for newcomers. Learn how →
Start building credit
A secured card, paid on time every month. Learn how →
File your taxes
Free help through VITA. Learn how →

Health, school & work

Find a doctor or community health center
Fees based on income at community health centers. Learn how →
Enroll your children in school (if you have kids)
Every child has the right to public school. Learn how →
Find an English class, or help someone with theirs
Libraries and community colleges are a great start. Learn how →
Learn your rights at work
Minimum wage and overtime protect every worker. Learn how →

Building your life here

Get a lease in your own name
It builds your rental history. Learn how →
Learn what it takes to buy your first home
Free advice, no obligation. Learn how →
Practice for the citizenship test (when you're eligible)
Free practice tests on USA Club. Learn how →
Help someone else who just arrived
Answer a question on the board. (ticks itself automatically)