This is the step where your business stops being only you. It is worth marking. It is also the step with the most moving parts in the shortest window, because a handful of things have deadlines measured in days from the start date rather than weeks.

Beyond the paperwork, this is the moment your capacity changes. You can take the order you have been turning down, open the hours you have been closing, or finally spend a day on the business instead of in it. Getting the first hire landed cleanly is what makes the second one feel ordinary.

• Your EDD employer account number and your payroll system ready to run
• Workers’ compensation coverage in force on or before the start date
• The offer letter, with rate, schedule, classification, and start date
• The at hire packet. W-4, DE 4, Form I-9, pay information notice, and the required pamphlets
• Whatever the person physically needs on day one. Keys, uniform, tools, login, parking, a safe place for their bag