How to Decide if a Work at Home Job is Legitimate

Check out work-at-home job opportunities before getting involved.

A work-at-home job is a great solution for many people. It often offers freedom that a 9-to-5 office job does not. But finding a legitimate work-at-home job can be a chore. Many scams claim to be legitimate work-at-home opportunities, but they end up just costing you money. With a little diligence, you can find out if a work-at-home job is legitimate or if it's a scam.

Instructions

1. Investigate the company. Search online for information about the particular company. Find out how long the company has been in existence and who runs the company. Contact the company and ask to speak with current work-at-home employees. A company that does not have contact information available is often not legitimate.

2. Find out if there are hidden fees. Many times a work-at-home employment opportunity will have hidden costs and fees. Dig deep into the specifics on these positions. Go back to the bottom of the main page of the website. Find the contact information, FAQs (frequently asked questions) and TOS (terms of service). You should not have to pay to work for a company. Legitimate companies will pay you.

3. Read the fine print. Read the Terms of Service line by line. Look for information about start-up fees and charges to your credit card account. Look for dollar signs and numbers. Use a magnifying glass because sometimes the type is very small and hard to read. Call the company and ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.

4. Find out how to quit. Research how to stop working at home if the opportunity fails. Some websites require you to sign a contract before working for them. Treat online business opportunities like actual employer and employee relationships. Find out what rights you have when you submit work. Find out how you can get out of the contract if you no longer wish to provide your services.

5. Contact the authorities. Contact local, state and federal agencies to check out a work-at-home job opportunity. Search online with the Better Business Bureau and find out if the company is legitimate. Proceed cautiously if you think it is a good opportunity, but you still have reservations.

References

• Home with the Kids: 8 Rules to Help You Avoid Work at Home Job Scams