6 Important things to do after relocating to the US from India

Relocating to a new country can be a stressful experience. There are so many details to take care of before and after moving that it can get overwhelming.

Here is a simple checklist of the key actions you need to take upon arriving. These will set you up for a successful and hassle-free life in the US:

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1. Apply for SSN (Social Security Number)

The SSN is a unique identifier assigned to US citizens and residents, used to track income and determine benefits. It is also used by banks while opening bank accounts and credit cards.
Non-citizens need permission to work from the DHS (Department of Homeland Security) to be able to apply for an SSN. To apply for SSN, you will have to prove immigration status, work eligibility, age, and identity. Refer here for more information on the specific documents needed
You can start the application process online here. You will need to complete the process with an interview at an SSA (Social Security Administration) office near you. It usually takes two weeks after the interview to receive the SSN by mail.

2. Get a US Phone Number

A mobile phone connection with high-speed internet is a necessity today.
If you bought a prepaid US SIM card before arriving in the US, you may be able to convert it to a plan with a local carrier. Check which network your phone is using, and go to their store to create an account and get it converted. You could even convert it into a post-paid plan, though this might need a credit check.
Or, you could apply for a new number with one of the large providers such as T-Mobile or Verizon. These providers will offer several packages to choose from, based on your need for data and roaming. They may also bundle or discount subscriptions to streaming services as part of the package. E.g. T-Mobile offers Netflix to certain subscribers of their T-Mobile Magenta plan.
You can always port the number over to a different provider if you find plans that are better suited for your needs.

3. Open a Bank Account

Opening a bank account is one of the first things to do once you move to the US. Salaries in the US are paid every 2 weeks. Getting your first paycheck deposited into your account will reduce your dependence on savings from home. This is an important first step toward financial independence
You do not need an SSN to open a bank account in the US. You will be able to add the SSN to your account once you have it.
Some banks will accept a foreign passport as proof of identity. Most banks will need a US address to open an account. If you haven't found long-term accommodation yet, some banks will accept your employer’s address, along with a reference letter.
A lot of newcomers find it convenient to go to a nearby physical branch and work with an officer to open a bank account. Alternatively, you could open an account with a digital bank, where you may typically get better rates on savings accounts
Banks typically offer multiple kinds of accounts. It is important to understand the differences between them and choose appropriately:

Checking Accounts

These are meant for daily use: deposit salaries, pay bills, withdraw cash at an ATM, write checks, etc., and they pay no interest.
Pay attention to minimum balance requirements and maintenance fees. Early in your US stay, you might not have enough funds to maintain the required balances for premium account tiers. So newcomers usually start with a basic banking service and convert to a better product once their situation is stable.

Savings Accounts

These pay interest, and the rate can vary between banks. Some banks may have signing bonuses depending on the amount deposited, so it can be worthwhile to shop around.
These accounts may have transaction restrictions such as on the number of monthly withdrawals.

4. Get a credit card

A good credit score is critical to building a successful life in the US. It can be a source of joy or frustration depending on how well you build and manage your credit score.
Credit scores are used for a range of activities in the US. E.g. renting an apartment, getting a postpaid phone service, renting a car, opening a credit card, and even signing up for utilities.
Newcomers to the US need to start building their credit from scratch. This limits their eligibility for certain products, despite their level of affluence. The fastest way to build a credit score is through responsible use of credit, especially credit cards.

Here are some options for newcomers to explore:

International banks such as Citi, HSBC, and American Express, allow you to port your credit if you have an existing relationship with them in your home country
Some banks allow their customers to open a credit card along with their checking account where they get their salary deposited. It could be useful to talk about any credit card requirements if you visit a nearby branch to open your account
Banks nowadays allow customers to check if they are pre-approved for a card. This is a way for customers to see if they have a high likelihood of getting approved, without actually applying for it. This can reduce the risk of a negative hit on your credit report
Finally, some cards are targeted at customers with no credit history. These are secured credit cards and require a deposit of say $500 against which an equal credit line is extended.
Most banks require an SSN or ITIN to open a credit card, though some will issue cards with alternate forms of identification

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5. Get a Driver’s License / State ID

These are government-issued identification cards that contain personal and biometric information. They are useful to prove identity in several situations. E.g. domestic travel, and buying age-restricted goods such as alcohol. Refer to your state’s SOS (Secretary of state) / DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) websites for details on accepted documentation.
Unless you’re in a large metro with good public transport, you will need a car to go around in the US. Visitors to the US can typically use their driver’s license from their home country for a few weeks. Refer to your state’s DMV website for the specifics.
For longer stays, you will need a driver’s license to rent or buy a car, get car insurance, and drive in the US. To get a driver’s license, you will need to pass an in-car driving test. Refer to your state’s SOS /DMV website to get a copy of the Rules of the Road document and to schedule a driving test.

6. Find long-term accommodation

If you’re moving for employment or education, your company or school may offer temporary housing for your first few weeks in the US. Eventually, you may need to find longer-term accommodation.
Research the cities near where you’ll be working and identify the area/suburb where you’d like to live. Use websites such as Zillow and Apartments.com to find apartments that match your budgetary and space requirements.
The listings on these websites may be managed by a real estate agent. They work based on commissions from the realtor, and not from the renter. So, share details of what you’re looking for, and where. They may be able to show properties that are a good match, besides the ones on the website.
Apartment rentals typically need a credit score check. Some realtors will accept employment contracts and/or advances to process a rental application.

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By taking care of these in your first few weeks, you will be ready for a successful and hassle-free life in the US.

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