Arrival essentials

The first few weeks are all about getting the basics in place: a phone number, a social security number, and the start of a credit score. Almost everything else depends on these three, so tackle them early.

SIM and phone#

• Almost everything here runs off a SIM. You cannot open a bank account without a US phone number, so it is best to have one before you even arrive.
• Save money with your phone number. Safeway, Walgreens, and Target give big discounts when you make an account and select the deals in the app. You can sometimes save up to 60%.
• Around Black Friday (October to December), Mint Mobile usually has a good deal on unlimited data.
• Everything works on referrals. Before downloading any app, ask a friend for a referral link.
• Keep your Belgian number. Mobile Vikings has a data only subscription for about $15 (a single payment, not a monthly plan) that gives you 4GB, so when you go back to Belgium for a week you are covered. It is easy to switch to a monthly plan if you stay longer.

SSN (social security number)#

• You need an SSN to open a credit card.
• Most Belgians go for the Chase Freedom Unlimited card. In the Chase app, enable automatic payment of the full balance. There are no costs as long as you keep about $2,000 in your checking account.
• Start early, because this is how you begin building your credit score, which matters a lot for renting an apartment.
• You can only apply for your SSN after you arrive. You book an appointment and go in person.
• You need an address for them to mail it to. If you are in a hotel or Airbnb, ask a friend with an apartment.
• Never share your SSN. It is a piece of paper, so keep it somewhere safe. You will need it when renting an apartment or opening a credit card.

Credit score#

• Build it as early as possible. It affects your ability to rent and to get approved for cards.