The onboarding checklist helps us match you with the best-fit opportunities as they become available. After completing the assessment, you may be invited to move forward through the checklist, step by step. 

The onboarding checklist helps us match you with the best-fit opportunities as they become available. After completing the assessment, you may be invited to move forward through the checklist, step by step. This process includes completing a tax form, providing personal identification such as your Social Security Number (SSN), uploading work authorization documents, and verifying your identity in Deel. These steps are required so we can process your payment quickly once you start working on a project.

Note: Completing the onboarding checklist does not guarantee acceptance into the Handshake AI Fellowship. If a project aligns with your skills, we’ll reach out with an invitation to join!

Step 1: Upload your resume

Submit your application by completing the Assessment. To learn more about the application process, refer to Apply to the Handshake AI Fellowship.

Not all applicants will move beyond the assessment stage. If your skills and experience align with one of our projects, we’ll be in touch!
 

Step 2: Verify your identity

Your identity will be managed through our partner Persona. You'll upload a valid, government-issued ID as well as take a selfie.

If you’re running into trouble uploading your ID or selfie during Persona verification, we recommend that you use the following tips for a successful upload:  

• Use bright, even lighting (avoid standing with a light or window behind you).
• Try a solid, light-colored background - avoid "noisy" backgrounds
• Avoid glare on laminated IDs by tilting slightly or adjusting the angle.
• Ensure that all four corners of your ID are visible within the frame.
• Hold your phone steady and let the camera focus (blurry images can’t be processed).
• Ensure the text and barcode are clear and readable.
• Use a mobile device if possible (smartphone cameras usually capture better images than laptops).
• Take your time and don’t rush the capture process!

Step 3: Sign your project contract

In order to fully onboard a project, you’ll need to create a Deel account and sign your contract

To complete this step:

1. Start Account Setup
   • Click the button next to Setup Payments, or
   • Check your inbox for an email from Deel with a link to create your account.
2. Create Your Deel Account
   • Accept the invitation to join Deel.
   • Choose a password and enter your first and last name.
   • Confirm your email by clicking "Confirm my email" in your inbox.
3. Select Contractor Classification
   • Individual: Your personal information will be used for invoices and documentation.
   • Entity (e.g., LLC): Your business information will be used for tax and payment purposes.
4. Complete Your Profile
   • Enter your personal details to create your Deel profile.
5. Sign the Terms of Service
   • Click "Contract" on the right side of the page to review and sign the Terms of Service.
   • Tip: Make sure your legal name is correct. If you need to make changes, contact the Handshake AI team—not Deel support.
6. Submit Tax and Payment Information
   • Provide your tax details (W-9) information before signing.
   • Your Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) should reflect your own information—not Handshake’s. Your TIN is and identification of numbers used for tax purposes. What you enter will depend on your specific situation:
     • If you’re a U.S. citizen or resident, this is typically your Social Security Number (SSN).
     • If you’re applying as a business or entity, you may use an Employer Identification Number (EIN).
7. Finalize
   • Confirm that you’ve read and agreed to the terms.
   • Sign the Terms of Service contract to complete the process.

Note: If you're added to a project, you'll be hired as an independent contractor (Form 1099). This means taxes will not be withheld from your payments, and you’ll be responsible for managing and filing your own taxes.

Need to make an update to your Deel account? Most updates can be made directly to your Deel account. If you're unable to make an update contact the Handshake AI Support team.

Note: If you're participating as an LLC, you must register with Deel as an entity, not as an individual contractor. You also need to provide valid U.S. entity registration paperwork and set up a valid bank account associated with your business.
 

After completing onboarding, you may be contacted by a project team if there's a match. Learn more about what's next in Next Steps After Applying to the Handshake AI Fellowship.