1 of 34

Write now Article Tools

Page 2 of 2

a 300% yearly interest rate when you roll the loan over. You can even lose your car. The Department of Consumer Affairs warns you that title loans are a dangerous downward financial spiral.

GET RICH QUICK SCAMS

Although there are some good ways to freelance work during a crisis, there are also many ads that promise quick, easy money for little work. Do your own research at your public library in "Work at Home Sourcebook." The National Consumer's League's Internet Fraud Watch has put out the following tips for avoiding scams.

1. Know the company. Are they employing you or selling you training materials?
2. Don't believe the "big profits easily" scam. All businesses require work and time.
3. Beware of email offers. Many are fraudulent.
4. Get all the details before you pay.
5. Make sure there is a market for your products or skills.
6. Get references from real people doing the work now.
7. Be aware of legal requirements. (Licenses or certificates)
8. Know the refund policy.
9. Beware of pyramid schemes with no actual products to sell.
10. Offer you "advance payment." After you deposit their check, they ask for part of it back
and then the original check bounces.

http://www.fraud.org/t ips/internet/workathome.htm
htt p://www.fdic.gov/consumers/con sumer/predatorylending/#option s
http://consumeraction.org
http ://truthaboutcredit.org
http:// www.ftc.gov/opa/reporter/credi t.shtm

Learn more about this author, Kathy Stemke.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

• << previous page
• 1
• 2

Add your voice

Know something about Five mistakes to avoid when raising cash quickly?
We want to hear your view. Write now!