FIRST JOB TOOLKIT

Starting a job? Here's the paperwork nobody explains.

Know the difference between a W-4, W-2, and I-9, understand your paycheck, and ask the right questions about benefits. Use the official forms and instructions rather than entering sensitive information into this app.

How to use this page

Work through each topic as you complete your hiring paperwork. Follow official links for the latest forms. Do not type Social Security numbers, banking details, or identity-document numbers into notes here.

STEP 1

W-4: the form you complete when starting a job

Form W-4 tells your employer how much federal income tax to withhold from your paycheck. It is not your annual tax return. Complete your personal details and filing status; use the official instructions for multiple jobs, dependents, other income, deductions, or extra withholding. Revisit it when your circumstances change.

IRS Form W-4 and instructions

STEP 2

W-2: the form your employer gives you

Form W-2 reports wages and taxes withheld during the year. You normally receive it after year-end and use it when preparing your tax return. Check your name, Social Security number, wages, and withholding for accuracy. You do not generally fill out a W-2 when hired.

IRS Form W-2 explained

STEP 3

I-9: verifying work eligibility

Form I-9 documents employment authorization. Employees complete their required section and present acceptable documents under the official rules. Employers complete their verification responsibilities. You generally choose which acceptable documents to present from the official lists.

USCIS Form I-9

STEP 4

Direct deposit and paycheck basics

Verify that payroll instructions are being provided through a legitimate employer system. Know the difference between gross pay, take-home pay, federal and state withholding, Social Security, Medicare, and benefit deductions. Never send bank credentials by an unexpected text or email.

CFPB consumer resources

STEP 5

Benefits and retirement enrollment

Ask when medical coverage begins, what premiums and deductibles apply, whether a 401(k) match is available, and when enrollment deadlines occur. Keep copies of your selections and beneficiary choices.

U.S. Department of Labor benefits information

STEP 6

Your first tax return

A tax return reconciles income, withholding, credits, and taxes owed. Keep W-2s, 1099s, and other relevant records. State and local tax rules can differ. Use official IRS resources or a qualified preparer if unsure.

IRS filing information

Next step: prepare your questions.

Save a task to review your onboarding documents, or record questions in your private notes.

Create an onboarding task →Open private notes →