10 Things Every Filipina Should Do in Her First 90 Days in America
Moving to America is exciting… but it can also feel overwhelming.
When I first started my life here, I quickly realized that no one really gives immigrants a clear guide on what to do first. You figure things out step by step, sometimes by making mistakes.
If you're a Filipina who just arrived in the United States or you're planning to move soon this guide will help you focus on the most important things during your first 90 days.
These steps can make your transition smoother and help you avoid common immigrant struggles.
1. Get Your Social Security Number
Your Social Security Number (SSN) is one of the most important things you need in the United States.
It allows you to:
• work legally
• open certain bank accounts
• build credit
• file taxes
As soon as you're eligible, schedule an appointment with the Social Security Administration (SSA).
Without this number, many parts of life in America become difficult.
2. Open a Bank Account
Opening a bank account should be one of your first financial steps.
Most employers pay through direct deposit, and having a bank account makes managing money much easier.
Look for banks that offer:
• low or no monthly fees
• easy mobile banking
• convenient ATM access
Many immigrants start with banks like Chase, Bank of America, or Wells Fargo, but credit unions can also be great options.
3. Get a U.S. Phone Number
A local phone number is necessary for everyday life.
You'll need it for:
• job applications
• banking verification
• delivery services
• contacting landlords
Affordable options include:
• Mint Mobile
• Visible
• T-Mobile prepaid
Having a reliable phone plan makes adjusting to life here much easier.
4. Learn How Credit Works
One of the biggest surprises for many immigrants is how important credit is in America.
Your credit score can affect:
• renting an apartment
• buying a car
• getting a loan
• sometimes even job applications
A good way to start building credit is by applying for a secured credit card.
The key rule:
Always pay your balance on time and in full.
5. Understand Healthcare Basics
Healthcare in the United States can be confusing.
Unlike the Philippines, medical services can be very expensive without insurance.
If you're working, check whether your employer offers health insurance benefits.
If not, research options such as:
• Marketplace insurance
• community health clinics
• urgent care centers
Knowing where to go before an emergency happens is very important.
6. Learn the Transportation System
Transportation depends a lot on where you live.
In some cities, public transportation works well. In others, having a car becomes almost necessary.
During your first few months, try to learn:
• local bus routes
• train systems
• ride-share options like Uber or Lyft
Eventually, many immigrants decide to get a driver’s license so they have more freedom.
7. Be Careful When Renting
Housing scams unfortunately exist everywhere.
Before signing a lease or sending money:
• visit the place if possible
• read the lease agreement carefully
• confirm what utilities are included
• ask about security deposits
If something feels suspicious or rushed, it's better to take a step back.
8. Connect With Other Filipinos
One thing that helped me a lot was finding Filipino communities.
Being around people who understand your culture can make a big difference emotionally.
You can find Filipino communities through:
• churches
• Facebook groups
• local cultural events
• Filipino grocery stores
Sometimes just hearing Tagalog or Bisaya can make a new place feel more like home.
9. Manage Your Money Wisely
Many immigrants feel pressure to send money home immediately.
Helping family is part of our culture, but it's also important to build stability for yourself first.
Before sending money regularly, ask yourself:
• Do I have emergency savings?
• Can I afford my own expenses comfortably?
• Am I building a stable future?
Taking care of yourself first doesn't mean you love your family less.
10. Be Patient With Yourself
Moving to another country is a huge life change.
There will be moments when you feel:
• homesick
• confused
• lonely
• overwhelmed
That’s normal.
Give yourself time to adjust.
Slowly, things will start to make sense, routines will develop, and you’ll begin to feel more comfortable in your new life.
A Message From Grace
Every immigrant story is different, but one thing we all share is courage.
Starting over in a new country takes strength.
If you're in the early stages of your journey, remember this:
You are not alone.
Thousands of Filipinas are navigating the same path, learning the same lessons, and building their lives step by step.
Free Resource
If you're just starting your life in America, I created a Free Immigrant Starter Checklist to help you organize the most important steps.
You can download it here: