I just started mystery shopping last October. I'm retired and can't quite make ends meet on social security. I've done 14 shops for one company and I've had several convenience stores that require you to buy a coffee. They reimburse $1.00 -- but the coffee costs $1.38! Doesn't sound like much but it all adds up. My way around it: The stores offer refills at 59 cents, so I save my cup and get refills!
Another company that has fast food shops requires that you buy a hamburger, fries, and a drink. They reimburse $7.00, but the cheapest 'burger is $3.79! When you add the fries and soda, your bill is $8.00. Why can't they just reimburse for the amount spent, particularly when they specify what they want bought?
I like doing the work, but the pay is really pretty bad. Week before last I performed eight shops -- and made less than $100.00 (minus the cost of gas). Between reading the guidelines, doing the shop, and completing the report I figured I'd made less than $2.00 per hour! I'm willing to work hard (and do); why can't they pay properly?