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Before You Sign Up for a Work-at-Home Job

Agency Research:

Contact the Federal Trade Commission (www.ftc.gov), state Attorney General, or your state consumer protection board to find out if they have received complaints about the Work-at-Home company you are considering. Contact these agencies both where the company is located as well as where you live. Do keep in mind that an absence of complaints doesn't mean the company is legitimate. Fraudulent companies may move, change their names or settle complaints to avoid detection.

Check References:

If any promoter gives you a reference list, make sure it has many names on it. Be suspicious of lists with only one or two people as they may be "shills" — conspirators or people hired to give positive testimonials.

Read about the Details:

Legitimate Work-at-Home companies should provide details about the job in writing, free of charge. Walk away if you're told you have to buy a "kit" or pay a fee before receiving written materials that answer the following questions:

• What tasks will I do for the job?
• Will I be paid a salary or based on commission?
• Who will pay me?
• How often, and how will I get paid, and when will I get my first paycheck?
• What is the total cost to me of the Work-at-Home program, including supplies, equipment and membership fees? What will I get for my money?
• What equipment (hardware/software) will I need to provide?

Examine the Market:

If a company claims there is a market for a service like medical billing, ask them which customers it has lined up to employ you, and contact those customers to confirm. Speak with professionals in your area to learn if there really is a market for the work you wish to do.

Check up on Legal Requirements:

Check with your state Attorney General's office to learn if you need a license or certificate to do work such as medical billing. Contact the U.S. Department of Labor to learn which types of work can legally be done at home and inquire about restrictions on operating a business from your home by contacting your local zoning board.

Ask about Refunds:

If you are required to buy equipment or supplies, ask under what circumstances you can return them for a refund and obtain a written copy of the refund policy (but remember that even with the policy, it may prove impossible to get your money back)