Preparing for a first job

A job offer is more than a number. Before accepting, look at the total package: pay, schedule, benefits, commute, growth and how the job fits your goals.

What to review in an offer

• Pay: hourly or salary, overtime eligibility and how often you are paid.
• Benefits: health insurance, retirement plan and match, paid time off.
• Start date and any probation period before benefits begin.
• Commute cost and time; a higher-paying job across town can net less.
• Training and growth opportunities.

First-day paperwork

Expect a Form W-4 (which tells your employer how much federal income tax to withhold), Form I-9 to verify you can work in the U.S. (you choose which documents to show from the form's list of acceptable documents, such as a U.S. passport, or a driver's license plus a Social Security card), direct deposit details and benefits enrollment forms. Ask questions if anything is unclear; HR expects them.

Protect yourself

Legitimate employers do not ask you to pay to start a job, buy equipment with your own money for reimbursement, or deposit checks and send money back. Those are common job scams.

Keep copies of your offer letter, W-4 and benefits choices in one folder. You will want them at tax time and when you change jobs.