dhead, the first step is to sign up with MSPs. A few with a nationwide presence are MarketForce, Corporate Research International, and Bare. You can find their sites on this forum's list, as well as other forums. There are hundreds of mystery shopping providers, and the more you sign with, the greater your chances of getting shops. MSPs typically email available shops (after applying and being accepted by them) and you then go to their site, apply, and wait to see if the shop is assigned to you. Mystery shopping is certainly not the same as a "job". You continually apply for shops for which you may or may not be assigned. Shops pay a fee, reimbursement, or both. You won't get rich, and most likely will not be able to pay all the bills from shopping, plain and simple. You will have freedom of choice, and be able to make a big dent in a lot of household expenses, such as gasoline and groceries.