The Journey · Stage 3
First Week
By the end of this week you want a working U.S. phone number, one transit route you know, food at home, a bank account opened, and your paperwork started. The guides below are in the order most people need them.
Your milestones
0 of 5 done
Check these off as you go — they save on this device only.
The guides, in order
- 1First Week ChecklistA first-week checklist covering housing, phone service, transportation, groceries, documents, banking, safety, school, and work.7 min read
- 2How to Get a Social Security Number (SSN) in the U.S.A practical beginner guide to when you need an SSN, how to apply, what documents to bring, and common mistakes to avoid.9 min read
- 3How to Choose a U.S. Bank AccountA practical guide to choosing a first U.S. checking account, comparing banks, credit unions, online banks, fees, ATM access, cash deposits, and safety.11 min read
- 4How to Open a U.S. Bank AccountA guide to opening your first U.S. bank account, including documents, SSN rules, online applications, debit cards, direct deposit, and account safety.8 min read
- 5Urgent Care Versus Emergency RoomA practical guide to choosing primary care, urgent care, retail clinics, telehealth, the emergency room, or 911 when you need medical help.11 min read
- 6How Public Transit WorksA beginner guide to using U.S. public transit, including subways, buses, commuter trains, regional differences, payment, transit cards, and mistakes.9 min read
- 7How to Use a LaundromatA practical beginner guide to finding a laundromat, paying for machines, washing and drying clothes, and avoiding common laundry mistakes.11 min read