Your first-paycheck checklist.

1. Ask payroll

• When is my first payday? What work dates does it cover?
• How often will I be paid? Where is my pay statement?
• What payment choices, setup deadlines and secure process apply?
• What happens if direct deposit is not ready? Whom do I contact?

2. Prepare for an account

• Confirm accepted identification and address information with the institution.
• Ask about fees, the opening deposit, cash access and availability of deposits.
• Read the current terms. Approval and requirements depend on the institution.

Build your plan:
bankonusa.org/open-an-account/

3. Check your pay

• Review work dates, earnings, deductions and take-home pay.
• Ask payroll about unexpected amounts or missing pay.
• Confirm the money is available before spending it.

Offered a payroll card? Ask payroll about alternatives and compare fees. See the CFPB guidance linked in the toolkit.

4. Plan until payday

• Start with available money, after pending transactions.
• Add income dates, bills, food, transport and other costs.
• Check for a shortfall before payday, even if the ending total is positive.

Make a private plan:
bankonusa.org/payday-plan/