by David Hornestay

Created on: March 19, 2007   Last Updated: December 31, 2011

On-line surveys are a particular niche of the work-at-home scams. They generally won't cost you investment or advertising money, but they will cost you frustration and time that could be applied to more useful and satisfying activity.

The fundamental principle to understand is that the survey entities are either seeking free or low-cost opinions on merchandise or services or they are advertising the same. Many will throw the word "cash" into a hodge-podge of phrases like "compete for" or "earn credit toward" or "enter sweepstakes" to create the impression that there is a reasonable opportunity to make actual money. Of course, the odds are equivalent to or worse than the usual lottery odds. At least with the lottery you know there's a state or other established jurisdiction behind it.

One of the most interesting-and disappointing-of the scams is one that guarantees an immediate invitation to a survey that pays $300 for a $50 membership fee. Sure enough, you are promptly referred to another scammer that lets you choose among several topics and availability dates. Standard items include toothbrushes, garden tools, diapers, cameras, and amusement parks. You can even write short essays on your favorite brands, or state, or city (no more than one a day). But of course you'll never hear from any of them.

And, strangely, although the date on their lists changes every day, you'll notice that nothing else changes. And, finally, if you e-mail them at the "contact us" address, inquiring as to why you never hear from them, you'll never get an answer.

There's one that may actually pay, but it takes time to find out. "Cash for reading e-mails" offers 3 cents for each advertisement read and supplies you with a running account. If you don't mind wading through daily ads, many of which are repetitious and of no possible interest, you can earn 3 cents a pop with two clicks each. Their threshold for payment is $30.00 (recently lowered from $40,) and it takes the better part of a year to reach that. You can speed it up with credit for accepting some of the advertised offers, which are occasionally good.

By signing on for bargain printer cartridges and a book club, I passed the $40 level, but not without additional correspondence to document my entitlement. Upon applying for payment, I have learned there is a $3.00 service charge and an estimated two-month waiting period for the check. Individuals may judge for themselves whether this makes too many hoops for the princely sums involved.

Learn more about this author, David Hornestay.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.