For every U.S. citizen — and those on the way
Your next steps as a U.S. citizen, explained in plain English.
Born here, naturalized, or a citizen through your parents — understand your responsibilities, explore careers, and follow simple guides to official government services.
Please note: Independent educational resource. Not affiliated with the U.S. government. Guidance does not replace official agency instructions or individualized legal advice.
Which describes you?
Pick the one that fits and we'll suggest where to start. You can also browse every guide below.
Your choice isn't saved or sent anywhere. It only shows you suggested guides.
E Pluribus Unum
Out of many, one.
The flag's 13 stripes stand for the original colonies and its 50 stars for the states — one nation made from many peoples and backgrounds.
Learn about the flag and national symbolsWhere would you like to start?
Every guide explains terms in plain English and ends with a clear next action and a link to the official source.
Start here
- My ChecklistAnswer a few optional questions and get a personal list of next steps.Open
- After CitizenshipPassport, Social Security, voting, and keeping your records safe.Open
- Stay SafeSpot scams that target new citizens and job seekers.Open
- Money, Housing & TaxesBanking, building credit, renting or buying a home, and filing taxes.Open
Your situation
- Turning 18Voting, Selective Service, IDs, and first steps as a young adult.Open
- Citizenship Through ParentsHow citizenship through a parent works and which documents prove it.Open
- Refugees & AsyleesFor citizens who first came as refugees or asylees: records, family, and support.Open
- Bringing Family to the U.S.Which relatives USCIS lists, the main steps, and why to talk to a lawyer first.Open
- Veterans & Military FamiliesVA benefits, jobs after service, military family support, and citizenship through service.Open
- Disability ResourcesADA rights, work accommodations, disability income, and special education.Open
Work & careers
- Job SearchFree local job help, training, and getting your foreign degree recognized.Open
- Government Careers & TrainingFederal, military, state, city, and school jobs: who hires and how to prepare.Open
- Federal Job Application LessonsEight guided lessons from creating accounts to tracking your application.Open
- Security Clearance ReadinessHow clearances work and how to get ready — without sharing personal details.Open
Family & education
Civic life & government
- Government & VotingLook up your ballot, find your election office, and see who represents you.Open
- Jury DutyWhat a summons means, what to expect at the courthouse, and how to spot scams.Open
- Selective ServiceLearn what it is, whether to look into it, and where to check official records.Open
- The ConstitutionThe full text and all 27 amendments, each explained in plain English.Open
- Declaration of IndependenceThe full text with plain-English summaries of each part.Open
- Founding ValuesThe Oath, founding principles, your rights and responsibilities, and respect for all.Open
- Checking Facts & CandidatesCivic warning signs, checking before you share, and a private candidate worksheet.Open
- Good Neighbor BasicsWaiting your turn, noise, clean spaces, accessible parking, honest applications, and small-business basics.Open
- American Life & CultureHolidays and what they mean, national symbols, sports, and everyday customs.Open
- Explore AmericaLandmarks that tell America's stories, with trip ideas and official visitor links.Open
Help & resources
How this site works
Step 1: Learn
Short guides explain what each agency does and why it matters to you.
Step 2: Check
Use checklists and review questions. We never decide your legal status or eligibility.
Step 3: Act
Follow links to the official government websites to complete each task.
Stay safe from scams
Government accounts are free. No one can guarantee you a federal job. Never share your password or a one-time code.