Resources
Checklists & starter guides
Practical, step-by-step checklists for the biggest decisions new immigrants face — paired with the in-depth guides behind each one.
New to USA checklist
Everything to set up in your first weeks — from SSN and bank account to phone plan and credit card.
- Get your SSN (or ITIN) and a US address
- Open a checking + savings account
- Set up a phone plan and utilities
- Apply for your first (secured) credit card
- Find temporary, then permanent housing
First apartment checklist
Rent your first place without a US credit history — and know exactly what to check before you sign.
- Calculate the rent you can actually afford
- Prepare proof of income / offer letter / deposit
- Read the lease terms and break-lease clause
- Budget for security deposit + renters insurance
- Document the apartment's condition at move-in
Read the guides
Credit score checklist
Go from an invisible credit file to a 700+ score with the right first moves and habits.
- Open a secured credit card
- Become an authorized user if possible
- Keep utilization under 10%
- Pay in full and on time, every month
- Avoid multiple hard inquiries early on
Car buying checklist
Buy and insure your first car even with thin credit — and avoid the classic newcomer mistakes.
- Set a total budget (price + insurance + fuel)
- Decide used vs new vs lease
- Get pre-approved or explore no-cosigner options
- Compare insurance quotes before you buy
- Inspect, test drive, and check the title/history
Read the guides
India–USA money transfer checklist
Move money between India and the USA the tax-smart, low-fee way using the right accounts.
- Choose the cheapest transfer service & rate
- Use NRE/NRO accounts correctly
- Account for the 1% US remittance fee & TCS
- Keep records for tax and FBAR reporting
- Plan large transfers around exchange rates
Read the guides
Tax documents checklist
Know which forms to save each year so your first US tax return — and FBAR — go smoothly.
- Collect W-2s and any 1099s
- Track India income and interest
- Gather foreign account balances for FBAR
- Save investment & brokerage statements
- Keep proof of taxes paid in India (for DTAA)
Retirement account checklist
Set up tax-advantaged accounts early — even if you might move back to India one day.
- Capture the full 401(k) employer match
- Open a Roth or Traditional IRA
- Use an HSA if you have an HDHP
- Choose low-cost index funds
- Have a plan for accounts if you repatriate
Family settlement checklist
Bring your family and build stability — schools, healthcare, and an emergency fund that fits family life.
- Plan dependents' visas and documents
- Research school districts before you rent/buy
- Set up family health insurance
- Build a 3–6 month emergency fund
- Budget for visits to India and family support