Though a few top mystery shoppers make pull in $1000 per month in income and incentives, a more average active shopper hits in the $300 to $600 range. This can be an attractive second or hobby income but not a full time profession. If you’re thinking full-time job, then consider the scheduling end rather than the actual shopping.
Ball Park Figures
Low end shops (retail) run in the $10 range per shop though may go up to $25 or $30 for more detailed reports and with incentives for hard-to-fill assignments. The higher paying work, including evaluating car dealerships, checking out gyms and banks, typically pay out $30 and up per shop but do require more time and paperwork. Newer high-tech jobs including audio/video often go $50 or more per assignment. Some of the high-end restaurant shops do not include a cash payment but may total $50 to $100 in food and drink values. Jobs and pay outs vary a lot from company to company and from time to time.
It’s important to read carefully and note what is and what is not covered when doing mystery shops. Many restaurant shops do not factor in the tip, for instance. A high end free meal may end up costing $20 for the tip, though many would still consider that a good deal if they enjoy the restaurant trip.
It’s also important to keep track of expenses, since those can be written off against earnings on taxes at the end of the year. Keep track of mileage, uncovered fax bills, and other related expenses not directly covered by the mystery-shopping company. Good records are important.
Come up with some sort of system to log companies, jobs, costs, and payments. When you’re a private contractor or freelancer, then it’s critical to keep records in order. A missed assignment or missed payment can be a real problem. Paying taxes on actual income versus the money made over and above expenses is also costly.