How to Avoid "Stuff Envelopes for Money" Schemes

Have you seen ads claiming that you can stuff envelopes for money? If so, chances are this is a scheme that is simply too good to be true. There are some steps you can take to determine whether these and similar offers are legitimate work-at-home offers, or whether you should steer clear. Here's how to avoid getting taken for a ride by "stuff envelopes for money" schemes:

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Avoid any program or company that promises quick and easy riches. It's tempting to think you can stuff envelopes for money and make big bucks, but if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

2. Avoid any program or company that requires a large upfront payment. While some legitimate work-at-home opportunities do have a small enrollment or equipment fee, typically it's a red flag if you have to pay money to get to work. You can investigate whether a particular program is legitimate by asking people on work-at-home forums, and checking with the Better Business Bureau and Chamber of Commerce where the company is located.

3. Avoid pyramid schemes, ponzi schemes, or cash gifting schemes. These work by funneling money to the top of the pyramid from people at the bottom who contribute their hard earned money. Many of these 'stuff envelopes for money' schemes involve so-called "cash gifting."

4. Some stuff envelopes for money opportunities may be legitimate, though there are few such opportunities. Legitimate opportunities sell a product or service, like informational booklets or coupon clipping services. Some of these opportunities may be borderline as well, so make sure you do your homework.

[seradis]

on 3/18/2009 Great article. I thought about doing these, but was afraid they were scams. 5*