09 Jul

What to Bring to a Temp Agency in Knoxville

A short, friendly checklist so your first visit to Labor Exchange in South Knoxville goes easy.

Key takeaways

Quick answer: Bring two forms of ID for your I-9, usually a driver's license or state ID plus a Social Security card or birth certificate. Wear clothes and closed-toe shoes you can work in, and arrive early. At Labor Exchange in South Knoxville, you can often work and get paid the same day.

Labor Exchange is a family-owned staffing agency at 4408 Chapman Hwy in South Knoxville. Walk in or call (865) 247-4957.
Bring two forms of ID for the federal I-9: a photo ID plus a work-authorization document like a Social Security card, or one document like a U.S. passport that covers both.
You are hired as a W-2 employee here, pre-screened and covered by workers' comp, not a 1099 contractor.
Work today, get paid today. Daily pay is available the same day you finish your shift.

Walking into a staffing agency for the first time can feel like a big unknown, and we understand that. Honestly, most of it comes down to a short list of things to bring, and our team will walk you through the rest once you are here. Here is what to have with you so your first visit to Labor Exchange goes smoothly and you can get to work.

The two forms of ID to bring for your I-9

The most important thing to bring is your ID. Every worker in the country fills out a federal form called the I-9, and it asks you to prove two things: who you are, and that you are allowed to work in the United States. The simplest way to cover both is to bring two documents. Most people bring a driver's license or state photo ID along with a Social Security card or a certified birth certificate.

If you have one document that proves both at once, such as a U.S. passport or a permanent resident card, that one is all you need. If you are not sure what you have, just bring what you can and ask us. We do this every day and we will help you figure out what works. The key is that the documents are real and unexpired, not photocopies.

What to wear on your first day

Dress like you are ready to work, because you might be sent out the same day. For most general labor, that means comfortable clothes you do not mind getting dirty and closed-toe shoes or work boots. A lot of warehouse and job sites will not let you on the floor in sandals or open shoes, so leave those at home.

If you have your own steel-toe boots, gloves, or a high-visibility vest, bring them along. You will not always need them, but having your own gear means you are ready for more kinds of work. Dressing for the job shows the crew leader you are serious, and it keeps you safe on site.

When to show up (come early)

We are at 4408 Chapman Hwy in South Knoxville, just down the road from the river and easy to reach from anywhere in Knox County. Mornings are when the most work goes out, so if you want the best shot at a shift that day, come in early. The earlier you are here with your ID in hand, the more likely we can match you to a job before the crews head out to sites around Knoxville, Maryville, Alcoa, and up toward Sevierville.

You do not need an appointment to come see us. You can walk in during business hours, and you are welcome to call ahead at (865) 247-4957 if you want to know what is available before you drive over. Either way, a friendly face will be here to get you started.

How same-day pay works

One of the reasons people come to us is simple: work today, get paid today. When you finish a shift, you can get paid that same day rather than waiting two weeks for a check. For folks who need money in their pocket now, that makes a real difference, and it is one of the things we are proud to offer.

Because you are hired as a W-2 employee, your pay already has taxes handled the right way, and you are covered by workers' compensation while you are on the job. You are not an independent contractor left to sort out your own taxes. We take care of the screening and the paperwork so you can focus on the work.

What you do not need to worry about

You do not need to pay us anything to sign up. Workers never pay a fee to Labor Exchange. You also do not need a fancy resume or years of experience for most general labor jobs. If you are dependable and ready to work, we can usually find a place for you.

You do not need to know exactly what job you want, either. Tell us what you are good at and what you are looking for, and we will help match you to the right kind of work. We are a family-owned company in South Knoxville, we are in the people business, and our whole day is spent putting good neighbors to work across East Tennessee.

A quick checklist before you head over

Before you leave the house, grab two forms of unexpired ID for your I-9, put on work-ready clothes and closed-toe shoes, and plan to arrive early in the morning. That is really all it takes to get started with us.

If you have questions about anything on this list, call us at (865) 247-4957 or just come by. Our team in South Knoxville would rather answer a question than have you worry about it. We look forward to meeting you and getting you to work.

Common questions

What ID do I need to bring to a temp agency?

Bring two forms of ID so we can complete your federal I-9. The most common combination is a driver's license or state photo ID plus a Social Security card or certified birth certificate. If you have a U.S. passport or permanent resident card, that single document covers both identity and work authorization.

What should I wear on my first day?

Wear clothes you can work in and closed-toe shoes or work boots. Many job sites do not allow open shoes on the floor. If you own steel-toe boots, gloves, or a high-visibility vest, bring them, since they open you up to more kinds of work.

What time should I arrive?

Come early in the morning if you can. Most of our work goes out at the start of the day, so arriving early with your ID in hand gives you the best chance at a shift that same day. No appointment is needed to walk in.

Can I really get paid the same day I work?

Yes. At Labor Exchange you can work today and get paid today. Once you finish your shift, daily pay is available so you do not have to wait weeks for a paycheck.

Is there a fee to sign up as a worker?

No. Workers never pay anything to sign up with Labor Exchange. We are paid by the businesses that need staff, so getting registered and finding work through us is always free for you.

Do I need experience to get a job?

For most general labor jobs, you do not need special experience. If you are dependable and show up ready to work, we can usually find a good fit. Tell us your skills and what you are looking for, and we will help match you to the right work.