Congrats, you landed the job! The first day is exciting, but before you can start folding sweaters or running the register, your new employer needs to make sure you’re legally ready to get paid.

Don’t let the thought of paperwork stress you out. We’ve broken down the three main categories of documents you need to bring with you to successfully complete your onboarding.

1. Proof of Identity & Eligibility (Form I-9)

This is the most crucial step. By law, every U.S. employer must verify your identity and confirm you’re legally authorized to work in the country using the Employment Eligibility Verification form (I-9).

You must bring original, unexpired documents—photos, scans, or photocopies won’t work!

You have a few options, but the easiest way is usually to bring either:

Option A: Bring ONE item from List A

These documents prove both your identity and your right to work.

• U.S. Passport or U.S. Passport Card, check out all the requirements here https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports.html
• Permanent Resident Card (Green Card), for more information click here https://www.uscis.gov/green-card
• Foreign passport with a temporary I-551 stamp or endorsement
• Employment Authorization Document (EAD Card)

Option B: Bring ONE item from List B PLUS ONE item from List C

This is the most common path for teens. Most of the time you need to check with your parents to ensure they have this documentation somewhere. Employers usually require you bring the ORIGINAL documents with you and no copies, make sure you verify with your employer.

List B: Proof of Identity (Must have a photo)

• Driver’s license or state-issued ID card, check with your state DMV office.
• School ID card with a photograph, if you don’t have a state issued license or ID this will normally work.
• Voter’s registration card , check with your State Board of Elections or click here to see if you’re registered to vote https://www.vote.org/
• U.S. Military Card or Draft Record

List C: Proof of Work Authorization

• Social Security Card (unrestricted, signed original)
• Original or certified copy of a U.S. Birth Certificate (with an official seal)
• Certification of Birth Abroad issued by the U.S. Department of State

Pro Tip: For most teens, the easiest combo is your Photo School ID (List B) and your Original Social Security Card or Birth Certificate (List C). Double-check where your parents keep these!

2. Tax & Payment Forms

To get paid and make sure the right amount of taxes are withheld, you need to provide some financial details.

The W-4 Form (Federal Taxes)

Your employer will give you this form, but you’ll need key information to fill it out:

• Your full legal name and current address.
• Your Social Security Number (SSN).
• Tax status (usually Single or Married). Most teens will select Single.
• If you are claimed as a dependent (which you likely are if you are a teen), you’ll check a box on the form. Ask your parents for help if needed, your employer cannot help you fill this out.

Direct Deposit Information

No one wants a paper check anymore! To set up direct deposit, you’ll need:

• Your Bank’s Routing Number: A 9-digit number that identifies your bank (usually found at the bottom left of your checks or in your online banking app).
• Your Account Number: The specific number for your checking or savings account.

Pro Tip: The safest way to get this info is to ask your bank for a voided check or a direct deposit authorization form. Do not just guess the numbers!

For more information on direct deposit, check out our podcast here https://youtu.be/Vrgy3-gtwdM?si=aJGxX-xAFq-hSC2C

3. Special Requirements for Minors (Under 18)

If you are under 18, you may have one extra piece of paperwork depending on your state:

The Child Labor Work Permit

Many states require a Work Permit or Employment Certificate for teens under a certain age (often 16).

• You must get this before your first day.
• The process usually involves getting forms signed by your parent/guardian, your school (to verify grades/attendance), and the employer.
• Action Item: Go to Google and Search for “[Your State] child labor work permit” right now to find the exact rules and forms!

Your First Day Checklist Recap

Before you walk out the door, check these off:

1. I-9 Documents: (e.g., Photo ID + Social Security Card)
2. SSN: Memorized or written down securely.
3. Bank Info: Routing and Account Numbers.
4. Work Permit: (If you are a minor).
5. Emergency Contacts: Names and phone numbers of a parent or guardian.

You’ve got this! Showing up prepared with the right documents proves you are responsible and ready to start earning.