Mystery Shopping Taxes
Discussions About Mystery Shopping Taxes
What about that EIN? How long is it "good?"
March 29, 2020
A long time ago one of the MS companies suggested (required?) that shoppers get an EIN. I got one, but I use my SSN on tax returns. Question: if I have never used it, is it still "good?" The State of Texas requires proof of self-employment to apply for... Continue Reading
Has anyone used Credit Karma for filing taxes?
March 25, 2020
Just wanted to see if anyone has used Credit Karma for filing taxes. I used the IRS free file ones last year and it was fine, but this year they said they want to charge me $105 to file using schedule C (so much for the FREE file huh?) and... Continue Reading
Taxes JITB shops
March 04, 2020
To get right to the point I have a question on taxes for these Jack In the Box shops. I did so many last year that I received a 1099. So here is my question: on what amount would I pay taxes on in the following scenario: Say the fee... Continue Reading
Monterey, CA: $30 EXTRA PAY = $150 Aquarium Shop: Admission, Food & Souvenirs - February Monday-Friday
February 25, 2020
Amusement Advantage has fun shops at an Aquarium / Oceanarium location in Monterey, CA available now! This shop pays $120 + $30 EXTRA PAY in February for a total of $150 (not including the $5 bonus for submitting early). Shop pay includes reimbursement for admission for up to... Continue Reading
Movie Measure 1099 for 2019
February 18, 2020
Has everyone gotten their 1099 for 2019 from Movie Measure? I contacted Rakesh and Accounting on 2/12 and have heard nothing back. I was under the impression that the IRS said the 1099s had to be mailed out by 1/31 and received by 2/15.... Continue Reading
GBW/Gapbuster 1099
February 18, 2020
Hello, anyone received 1099 from GBW yet? I did complete enough projects with them to be eligible for a 1099 fortunately I received payment for it too after 5 months, wahooo!!). I have contacted them regarding 1099 but no response from yet. What's my next step or options? I... Continue Reading
What mileage reimbursement do most MSCs believe is reasonable compensation?
February 14, 2020
The reason I ask is because I said I would take a job, but would need mileage because it is over 50 miles round trip. When I asked for the standard IRS personally-owned vehicle mileage of 57.5 cents per mile I never received a response, so I’m guessing the scheduler... Continue Reading
Mileage for mystery shops
February 14, 2020
Hello. Do you track the mileage to a mystery shop and the mileage home at the end of the day?... Continue Reading
Stericycle 1099
February 13, 2020
If you have not filed taxes yet, you might want to wait. I questioned my 1099 as it was significantly lower than my total in my records. After asking for clarification on several responses, I have been told they are checking with their tax department and will let me know... Continue Reading
What are reasonable travel expenses ?
February 11, 2020
One of the companies I work as an IC for lost another IC in an adjacent state. They asked me if I was willing to drive on a case by case basis and I agreed to as they came to me. I had one case where I drove 10 hours... Continue Reading
Full Time Mystery Shoppers and Apartment Rental (Income Statements, Check Stubs, Moving)
February 11, 2020
Full Time Shoppers, how are you reporting your income to apartments? Are you limited to apartments which allow bank statements in the place of check stubs? Or are you creating a business identity to qualify and inquiring to places that allow it? Something else? Bear with me, because I've searched for... Continue Reading
Monterey, CA: $120 Aquarium Shop - Admission, Food, Souvenirs & Fun! - Weekday & Weekend Shops Available
February 04, 2020
Amusement Advantage has fun shops at a Aquarium / Oceanarium location in Monterey, CA available now! This shop pays $120 (not including the $5 bonus for submitting early). Shop now pays $20 more for the same requirements! Guest not required. Shop pay includes reimbursement for at... Continue Reading
A post on taxes a few months back ...
February 03, 2020
Several months back someone was kind enough to post about taxes as an Independent Contractor but I can’t seem to locate that post now. Can anyone help me find that information? Thanks! :)... Continue Reading
HS Brands 1099 Income statement
February 03, 2020
I have not yet received a 1099 from HS Brands, and I am certain I am over the threshold with over $1000 in payments/bonuses (not reimbursements). Has anyone received one from them?... Continue Reading
IPSOS 1099s
February 02, 2020
Has anyone gotten their 1099s from IPSOS yet, OR are they by chance available online anywhere? I've looked, but if they are there, they are eluding me... these two are the only ones standing between us and filing :)... Continue Reading
Taxes Question
January 29, 2020
Hi all, does anyone report their reimbursement as part of their income when you file taxes? I’ve always only considered fees as income, not reimbursement, but now I’m hearing otherwise and want to check what you all do.... Continue Reading
Taxes
January 16, 2020
Hi, quick question how much taxes did you all seasoned mystery shoppers have to pay at the end of the year to the irs? Im still kind of new to Msc and was not sure what I can expect to pay from the money I have earned.... Continue Reading
IRS 2020 mileage rates
January 04, 2020
Sorry if this has already been posted - I searched but didn't find anything. Can you believe it went DOWN? :) https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-issues-standard-mileage-rates-for-2020 IR-2019-215, December 31, 2019 WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today issued the 2020 optional standard mileage rates (PDF) used to calculate the deductible costs of operating an automobile... Continue Reading
$100 to help recover from holiday expenses! Easy time audits in Buffalo, New York!
December 26, 2019
Happy Holidays Brand Agents, I hope you are having a wonderful holiday season! I don't know about you, but I could use $100 to help recover from holiday expenses! Complete four easy time audits and the $100 is yours! These audits only require you to confirm the target enroller is working... Continue Reading
Do all MSC’s ask for social security number?
December 26, 2019
Or are there companies that don’t ask for it? I have signed up with a couple of companies, only one of them did not required the social.... Continue Reading
Hypothetical business deduction
December 23, 2019
How much mystery shopping do you think you would need to do to write off mileage on a trip? We are going to TN and I have two small shops. In the past, I have completed more shops, but still at most $200-$300 in reimbursements and pay. I have... Continue Reading
mileage one way or round trip
December 22, 2019
Gonna do my own taxes. To determine mileage, do you calculate one or round trip?... Continue Reading
Social Security Scam
December 12, 2019
Calls are being made to US Citizens from foreign call centers. The robo call claims that your social security number has been compromised and thus suspended. The receiver of the call is advised to press one. The Social Security Administration is aware of this.... Continue Reading
$70 Tampa, FL Roller Skating Shop: $10 Higher Pay, Shorter Report & Fewer Expenses = EASIER SHOP for MORE PAY!
November 20, 2019
Amusement Advantage has fun shops at a Roller Skating location in Tampa, FL available now! This shop pays $70 (not including the $5 bonus for submitting early). Pay is $10 higher than before (as of February 2019). Shorter report, fewer expenses/requirements, and higher pay = EASIER SHOP... Continue Reading
Calculating time, expenses, and payment
November 08, 2019
Would you say $20 is a fair pay for a Storage unit shop 16 miles one way? This job will take about 2 hrs total Time breakdown.10 min for the call .20 min for the visit.30 min for the report 1 hour driving time (round trip (.30 min each to and from) (.30 minutes... Continue Reading
$20 Los Angeles, CA Phone/Web ONLY Shop at a Museum/Science Center (no on-site visit or expenses required - ALL PROFIT!)
November 07, 2019
Amusement Advantage has Phone / Website ONLY shops at a museum/science center in Los Angeles, CA available now! This shop pays $20 and is a phone only shop to inquire about a group event at the museum/science center. There is no on-site visit and no required expenses for... Continue Reading
Has anyone on here had their Social Security Benefits increased?
October 29, 2019
Has anyone here, over 62, had their Social Security benefits increased from earnings from mystery shopping?... Continue Reading
Hi! Introduction and a question about EIN
October 23, 2019
Hello! Just wanted to write a quick post to say hi and that I love reading the threads in this forum. They are so informative and entertaining, especially the funny stories while on the job. I have been shopping since 2016 and it's been a great way to earn some... Continue Reading
$85 -$100 potential monthly income - Be our newest auditor - AZ CA FL HI MA MI NJ NY
October 17, 2019
Need something different than Mystery Shopping? Why not try auditing? Ipsos (formerly GfK) Mystery Shopping Company is shoppers who might be interested in auditing. You need no experience for these audits! We help you 100% by helping you learn to audit and achieve success. Does this sound like something you could... Continue Reading
What happens if you don't pay your quarterly taxes?
September 30, 2019
I have not paid any quarterly taxes this year. I didn't have the money until now. If you owe $1000 in taxes is there any penalty.... Continue Reading
$100 travel expenses test center mystery visit Longwood Florida
September 11, 2019
You will be acting as a candidate for an exam in order to assess security standards at a test center. Note that there is no fee for you to pay! This visit is to an Examination Centre, to check that the security standards are being met. You will complete the... Continue Reading
$120 travel expenses test center mystery visit Sioux Falls South Dakota
September 11, 2019
You will be acting as a candidate for an exam in order to assess security standards at a test center. Note that there is no fee for you to pay! This visit is to an Examination Centre, to check that the security standards are being met. You will complete the... Continue Reading
$120 travel expenses test center mystery visit Albany Georgia
September 11, 2019
You will be acting as a candidate for an exam in order to assess security standards at a test center. Note that there is no fee for you to pay! This visit is to an Examination Centre, to check that the security standards are being met. You will complete the... Continue Reading
$100 travel expenses test center mystery visit Farmington New Mexico
September 11, 2019
You will be acting as a candidate for an exam in order to assess security standards at a test center. Note that there is no fee for you to pay! This visit is to an Examination Centre, to check that the security standards are being met. You will complete the... Continue Reading
$100 travel expenses test center mystery visit Portland Oregon
September 11, 2019
You will be acting as a candidate for an exam in order to assess security standards at a test center. Note that there is no fee for you to pay! This visit is to an Examination Centre, to check that the security standards are being met. You will complete the... Continue Reading
$100 travel expenses test center mystery visit Taylorsville Utah
September 11, 2019
You will be acting as a candidate for an exam in order to assess security standards at a test center. Note that there is no fee for you to pay! This visit is to an Examination Centre, to check that the security standards are being met. You will complete the... Continue Reading
$100 travel expenses test center mystery visit Charlotte North Carolina
September 11, 2019
You will be acting as a candidate for an exam in order to assess security standards at a test center. Note that there is no fee for you to pay! This visit is to an Examination Centre, to check that the security standards are being met. You will complete the... Continue Reading
$90 Lincoln Park, MI Roller Skating Shop - Higher Pay & Less Narratives/Expenses = MORE PROFIT!
September 07, 2019
Amusement Advantage has fun shops at a Roller Skating location in Lincoln Park, MI available now! This shop pays $90 (not including the $5 bonus for submitting early). It pays an average of $40-$50 or more PROFIT after expenses than it used to! Also, now only one... Continue Reading
$75 Clovis, CA Roller Skating Shop (Shorter Report/Less Requirements & Expenses = EASIER SHOP & MORE PAY!)
September 05, 2019
Amusement Advantage has fun shops at a roller skating location in Clovis, CA available now! This shop pays $75 (not including the $5 bonus for submitting early). The pay has been increased by $10 and the second Snack Bar/Café Visit has been eliminated, along with several other questions... Continue Reading
Field Agent, Presto invoices for taxes
September 03, 2019
I bookkeep earnings from doing gigs for these smaller MSPs, and use them in calculating my mileage. However, along with Performalogics, they don't have invoices that I can easily access and download come tax time. Anyone with experience with the taxmen know if we need to provide all invoices if... Continue Reading
$70 Tampa, FL Roller Skating Shop (Less Narratives & Expenses = Shorter Report & MORE PROFIT!) - August Fri/Sat
August 30, 2019
Amusement Advantage has fun shops at a Roller Skating location in Tampa, FL available now! This shop pays $70 (not including the $5 Early Return Bonus). Now with less report narratives, requirements & expenses = shorter, easier report & MORE PROFIT - approximately $40-$50 after expenses. Roller... Continue Reading
$30 EXTRA PAY = $120 Lincoln Park, MI Roller Skating Shop (Less Requirements/Expenses = Shorter Shop & MORE PROFIT!) - August
August 30, 2019
Amusement Advantage has fun shops at a Roller Skating location in Lincoln Park, MI available now! This shop pays $90 + $30 EXTRA PAY in August for a total of $120 (not including the $5 Early Return Bonus). It now pays an average of $60-$70 or more than... Continue Reading
$20 EXTRA PAY = $115 Wickliffe, OH Roller Skating Shop (Less Requirements/Expenses = Shorter Shop & MORE PROFIT!) - August
August 29, 2019
Amusement Advantage has fun shops at a Roller Skating location in Wickliffe, OH available now! This shop pays $95 + $20 EXTRA PAY in August for a total of $115 (not including the $5 Early Return Bonus). It now pays an average of $60-$70 or more after expenses... Continue Reading
$10 EXTRA PAY = $105 Wickliffe, OH Roller Skating Shop (now MORE PROFIT, less expenses & narratives!) - August
August 21, 2019
Amusement Advantage has fun shops at a Roller / Ice Skating location in Wickliffe, OH available now! This shop pays $95 + $10 EXTRA PAY in August for a total of $105 (not including $5 Early Return Bonus). Now pays an average of $50-$60 or more PROFIT after... Continue Reading
$10 EXTRA PAY = $100 Indianapolis, IN Roller Skating Shop (now MORE PROFIT, less expenses & narratives!) - August
August 21, 2019
Amusement Advantage has fun shops at a Roller / Ice Skating location in Indianapolis, IN available now! This shop pays $90 + $10 EXTRA PAY in August for a total of $100 (not including $5 Early Return Bonus). Now pays an average of $50-$60 or more PROFIT after... Continue Reading
$10 EXTRA PAY = $90 Columbus, OH Roller Skating Shop (now MORE PROFIT, less expenses & narratives) - August
August 21, 2019
Amusement Advantage has fun shops at a Roller / Ice Skating location in Columbus, OH available now! This shop pays $80 + $10 EXTRA PAY in August for a total of $90 (not including $5 Early Return Bonus). Now pays an average of $50-$60 or more PROFIT after... Continue Reading
Golf Course Cash Audit Shops - Shopper Pay $62/Expenses $10 -
August 12, 2019
Mercantile Systems has golf course cash audit shops available near you. You don't need to be a golfer or golf for this audit! You will conduct an audit alongside the location's General Manager, who will be counting the money in the register at the Pro Shop, Grill and office safe.... Continue Reading
Mobile app for mileage
August 12, 2019
If you are using a mobile app or software to track mileage, what are you using? I just started using Stride Tax. (free)... Continue Reading
More profit, less expenses
August 10, 2019
Hey guys I need a little help here. Which shops would you say are the best for making profit without spending any money out of pocket or at least very little. Some months I do good, but a good amount of the time my reimbursements are more than my profit.... Continue Reading
Do MSCs Know that $5, $6, $7, etc. Shops Don't Even Cover Mileage? Do Clients Know Our Pay?
August 06, 2019
Let alone hourly work time (prep/study time, shop time, and report time)? Also, do clients know that MSCs offer shops at $5, $6, etc. and how that doesn't cover expenses and/or encourages cheating and falsifying reports possibly (I could imagine a desperate person not even studying the guidelines or... Continue Reading
Another newbie question - SSN vs. EIN
August 05, 2019
SSN verifies instantly. EIN takes 2+ weeks. Is there any benefit to an EIN? I hate dropping my SSN number on-line. Is SASSIE solid with SSNs?... Continue Reading
$120 travel expenses test center mystery visit Sault Ste Marie
July 17, 2019
You will be acting as a candidate for an exam in order to assess security standards at a test center. Note that there is no fee for you to pay! This visit is to an Examination Centre, to check that the security standards are being met. You will complete the... Continue Reading
$100 PLUS travel expenses test center mystery visit Sault Ste Marie
July 16, 2019
You will be acting as a candidate for an exam in order to assess security standards at a test center. Note that there is no fee for you to pay! This visit is to an Examination Centre, to check that the security standards are being met. You will complete the... Continue Reading
If Pizza Delivery Drivers Get Mileage Reimbursed, Shouldn't All MSCs Offer it on Shops Too?
July 14, 2019
Thoughts on this? eta: I think the thing I hear usually is that they are shops for people who just happen to be driving by a place. Fair enough, but a lot of times no one JUST HAPPENS to be driving to these locations. Instead, we have to... Continue Reading
So glad I have another income
July 13, 2019
We are in a country with a booming economy and record low unemployment, I hear traditional business cant find employees, but, MS and field service companies still think they have you by the gonads. Twenty five dollar shops are not 17 or less and 10.00 or 7.00. Coupon shops with... Continue Reading
Filing Taxes on Mystery Shopping
July 12, 2019
I part time mystery shop for extra money. I do not file taxes, as it doesn't amount to much over the year. Does anyone else do this? Has anyone got in trouble for it?... Continue Reading
Taxes
July 06, 2019
I have a question about reporting income to the IRS. There is a difference in shop fee and reimbursement. However, sometimes shops just post a fee. What If the shop posts a fee of $60 but requires you to spend $60 on food in a restaurant. Can you deduct the... Continue Reading
Bar shops available at popular Hunt Valley, MD 21030 - Quaint American Cuisine Farmhouse - $20 Pay/$100 Expenses
June 18, 2019
Mercantile Systems has bar integrity shops available at an American Cuisine restaurant in Hunt Valley, MD. For this shop, you will sit at the bar top for one hour and observe the actions of the Bartender. You will complete two separate alcoholic drink transactions and order an appetizer.... Continue Reading
How is your summer golf game? Several major Golf Course / Driving Range Shops in SC- $50+expenses for up to 3
May 28, 2019
Amusement Advantage has fun shops at a Golf Course / Driving Range locations in SC These shops pay $50 + Reimbursement for up to 3 (can be completed alone as well) Even if you aren't interested, please refer your friends, family and co-workers. You will earn $20 for every new shopper... Continue Reading
IRS rules for mileage and other things
April 19, 2019
I am including a link below to publication 334 or the IRS which explains all the rules for independent contractors under the new tax laws. There are always questions regarding mileage and meals and overnight stays etc for mystery shoppers. The mileage info is on page 32 of this publication.... Continue Reading
Bar Shop at Steak House in Hunt Valley, MD 21030 - Shopper Pay $20/Expenses $100
April 18, 2019
Mercantile Systems has a bar shop available at popular Steak House in Hunt Valley, MD 21030. Shopper Pay $20; Expenses up to $100. Available Tuesdays/Wednesdays. Interested? Register/Apply at https://mercsystems.shopmetrics.com/document.asp?alias=login Questions: Email tammy.young@mercsystems.com or text 925-237-1710.... Continue Reading
Should you make Quarterly Payments to cover the Social Security and Medicare taxes?
April 14, 2019
I know I will pay little to no federal taxes, but will have Social Security and Medicare taxes over $1000. Should I make Quarterly Payments to cover them?... Continue Reading
Question on the gas mileage deduction
April 11, 2019
Does the gas mileage deduction more than make up for the cost of gas?... Continue Reading
Mileage Deduction for No Fee Food Shops?
March 29, 2019
Can you still claim mileage if you don't claim the food as income and then claim the food as an expense? Can you still deduct mileage for these food shops, like for ACL where you get the cost of the food but no fee? I'm doing my taxes and don't know if... Continue Reading
Taxes - beware of "Earned Income Credit""
March 15, 2019
It may be late in the game but for all those who have not filed yet, there are new rules for the EIC that allow it to be available to more tax payers than before. DON'T TAKE IT! Of course, it depends on your own situation. What happened to me... Continue Reading
Bar Integrity Shops Available - $20 Shopper Pay/$30 Expenses - TX Locations - Richardson, Beaumont, Dallas, Bedford
February 20, 2019
Have a couple of drinks at this popular Seafood or Tex-Mex Restaurants Bar and Grill! Grab a guest or go solo. This is an Integrity Bar shop where you will be evaluating the Bartenders cash handling, if there is over pouring, the carding of customers that appear to be under... Continue Reading
Anyone else using HR Block Online? Question about 1099s being entered
February 16, 2019
Hello everyone, been a while since I posted. I decided to use the HR Block free online this year since total income was much less than $60K and I moved into rural WV where help is few and far between. I suppose I could use an online CPA? I'm ready...... Continue Reading
Has anyone Received a 1099 from this company
February 15, 2019
-- moved topic -- ... Continue Reading
Intellishop 1099 not right
February 09, 2019
I just received my Intellishop 1099 miscellaneous form. This is the first 1099 I had ever received from them because I have never worked with them before. I don’t know how they figure out their compensation, because I did it both with only the fees and with both... Continue Reading
Taxes
February 06, 2019
Alright shoppers here's my dilemma. I took my taxes to HR Block to be done for the first time because of shopping income. I made mostly reimbursements of a few thousand dollars, with a few hundred dollars in fees. The tax professionals have no idea how to handle this so... Continue Reading
1099's Where are You?
January 31, 2019
What's up with the delay? My go-to's, Market force and intelli have yet to get those out to me. Last year they were already out to me by this time. Has anyone gotten there's yet. Weather it's timely payments or forms, these companies have been up... Continue Reading
Bare 1099 email
January 30, 2019
I received an email today from this company, efile4biz. The email said they were hired to provide 1099s for Bare. It also said the deadline to opt out and get a paper copy was 1/28/19. Why would they give notice on the 30th for a deadline that already passed. I... Continue Reading
Harland Clarke no longer paying mileage
January 29, 2019
I just noticed in the most recent shop offer email from Harland Clarke that they're no longer paying for mileage. This is a bummer, since most of their shops are a good distance from me.... Continue Reading
Single Parent of College Student Looking to Supplement Income
January 28, 2019
Hello everyone. I have been out of the mainstream workforce for 19 years now. I was blessed with the opportunity to be a stay at home mom. Now that my daughter is in college, I would love to find some flexable part time work. I have just started researching... Continue Reading
1099 time
January 17, 2019
For those concerned about January payments, think of the MSC accounting departments this month and their January 31 deadline. Before this becomes a "trash the MSC thread", I'll head it off at the pass. A high percentage of our (us that is, the IC mystery shoppers) individual accounting departments have no excuse.... Continue Reading
Brewhouse ID Check Shops Available - $10 Pay/$35 Expenses! Check it out!!
January 16, 2019
Mercantile Systems has Brewhouse Bar ID check shops still available! This is an easy 15-minute shop! You or your guest must be between 21-30 years old. Sit at the bar top, order an alcoholic drink and see if the decoy is asked for ID. You can order... Continue Reading
IRS Mileage Rate for 2019
January 11, 2019
I don't recall anyone posting the IRS mileage rate for 2019. It has gone up to $0.58 per mile. Keep this in mind when you are thinking about accepting a shop.... Continue Reading
I'm sure this is a dumb question..mileage
January 05, 2019
I just started mystery shopping a few months ago and haven't kept track of mileage. Going forward I will and I can see the benefit on mileage tax deduction (and might be able to go back figure out mileage for shops) but HOW important is calculating mileage??... Continue Reading
LRA taxes
December 21, 2018
For those who have worked on LRA projects: Does the tax form they issue break down the shop fees and the per diems as separate items or are they combined into one sum?... Continue Reading
US shopper in Canada - taxes
December 19, 2018
Toying with the idea of spending a few weeks in Canada next year, and wondering if it's worth it to pick up a few shops while there, or if the paperwork hassle will be much more than it would be worth. Any insights appreciated.... Continue Reading
Are there ways to lower your Social Security and Medicare taxes?
December 02, 2018
As an independent Contractor, we pay both side of the Social Security and Medicare tax. Are there ways to low what you pay? I'm 65, on Social Security and Medicare. Doing mystery shopping, I'm still paying into both, but won't get anymore back from them. If I meal cost me... Continue Reading
mspa webinar about taxes
December 02, 2018
I got an email from mspa about a new tax deduction for independent evaluators. You need to pay $20 to attend a webinar. Anyone know anything about this?... Continue Reading
Brewhouse Decoy Shops - AVAILABLE 11/27 ONLY - $21 Shopper Pay + $35 Expenses - Sacramento, CA
November 27, 2018
Mercantile Systems has a Brewhouse bar decoy shop available in Sacramento/Natomas location for TONIGHT, 11/27 and would love your help! Shopper pay INCREASED to $21! You or your guest must be between 21-30 years old. Sit at the bar, order an alcoholic drink and see if the decoy is... Continue Reading
Brewhouse ID Check Shops Available - Bar and Dining Room - Shopper Pay $20 + Expenses - CO, MD, TN
November 21, 2018
Mercantile Systems has Brewhouse bar decoy shops available and would love your help! Enjoy food and drinks on us this holiday weekend! You or your guest must be between 21-30 years old Shopper pay INCREASED to $20! BAR: Sit at the bar, order an alcoholic drink and see if... Continue Reading
Brewhouse ID Check Shops - PAY $17 + $35 Expenses
November 21, 2018
Mercantile Systems has Brewhouse bar decoy shops available and would love your help! Enjoy food and drinks on us this holiday weekend! Shopper pay INCREASED to $17! You or your guest must be between 21-30 years old. Sit at the bar, order an alcoholic drink and see if the decoy is... Continue Reading
IRS and 1099 forms from multiple companied
November 15, 2018
If I dont make $600/company and I'm registered to 5 different companies, do I have to report it on income taxes?... Continue Reading
Writing off flight expenses when traveling anyways?
November 11, 2018
If I am traveling for personal reasons but complete a shop in the airport at my destination, am I able to file the flight expenses as a business expense during tax time?... Continue Reading
Golf Course Dinner Shop - Fairfield, CA - $20 Shopper Pay/$40 Expenses
November 07, 2018
Mercantile Systems has a new golf course dining shop available at Legends & Heroes at Solano Rancho Golf Course in Fairfield! The shop needs to be completed on Friday, November 9th or November 16th between 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm. Shop details: • Go to the bar counter, order a... Continue Reading
IRS Request
November 02, 2018
Just got a letter from the IRS disallowing my mileage for my shops from a few years back. The first year that I shopped. Now they want to know why I drove all of those miles. They seem to think that it was my spouse that had done all of... Continue Reading
Brewhouse Bar Decoy Shops! $10 Pay/$35 Expenses - 15 minute shop!
November 02, 2018
Mercantile Systems, Inc. has Brewhouse Bar Decoy shops still available! You or your guest must be between 21-30 years old. Sit at the bartop, order an alcoholic drink and see if the decoy is asked for ID. Sit at bartop for 15 minutes. You can order food! Shopper Pay: $10... Continue Reading
Brewhouse Dining Decoy Shops - Shopper Pay NOW $15 + $35 Expenses - CO, FL, IN
October 25, 2018
Mercantile Systems has Dining Room Decoy Shops still AVAILABLE! $5 BONUS Added! You OR your guest MUST be between 21-30 years old. Sit in the dining room, order an alcoholic drink and a minimum of one food item and see if the decoy is asked for ID. Also, take... Continue Reading
Is it better to use An Employer Identification Number and create a company?
September 12, 2018
I use to be a business owner and I have been doing Mystery Shopping since 2013. During this time I have my SS number. With ALL the companies getting hacked and getting personal information would it be better to make a company and go to EIN number?... Continue Reading
Social Security Numbers and Name of Banking Institution
September 08, 2018
Are there any concerns about putting your social security number and the name of your banking institution on the applications to be a mystery shopper? These companies seem to work all over the world and that is information that could get the shopper in trouble with identity theft?... Continue Reading
Brewhouse ID Check Shops - $20 Shopper Pay/ $35 Expenses - MUST Complete by 8/28 - AZ, CA, CL, FL, IN, KY, MD, NY OH, TX, VA
August 27, 2018
Popular Brewhouse ID Check Shops Still Available! We have added a $10 BONUS to the dining room decoy shops, making the shopper pay $20! You or your guest must be between 21-30 years old. Sit in the dining room, order an alcoholic drink and a minimum of one food item and see... Continue Reading
Brewhouse Dining Room Decoy Shops Available! $10 Pay/$35 Expenses - AZ, CA CO, FL, IN, KY LA, NY, OH, TN, TX, VA
August 17, 2018
Brewhouse Dining Room Decoy shops available! You or your guest must be between 21-30 years old. Sit in the dining room, order an alcoholic drink and a minimum of one food item and see if the decoy is asked for ID. Shopper Pay: $10 Expenses: $35 ** Use the locations current promotion on... Continue Reading
Taxes and Mileage
August 14, 2018
I did a little MS last year but this year I have done quite a bit. I was told that I only write off the money I make for jobs and not the reimbursement about since I am being reimbursed, it is not income. My 1099 should only list the... Continue Reading
Easy ID Check Shops Available - $10 Shopper Pay/$35 Expenses
August 07, 2018
We have ID check shops available at a popular Brewhouse! For this shop, you OR your guest must be between 21-30 years old to complete the shop. The shop will be conducted in the DINING ROOM. The decoy will need to order one alcoholic beverage and see... Continue Reading
Reimbursement vs fees and taxes
August 06, 2018
Going over this issue of what you can write off. My taxable income is under $6000 a year, mostly from mystery shopping. If it wasn't for having to pay both sides of Social Security and the Medicare tax I wouldn't have to file taxes. In my case does the reimbursement... Continue Reading
AARP Booth Evaluations at concerts, festivals and fairs in CA, CO, CT, SD and WV
August 03, 2018
B. Business Solutions has the following AARP “Pop-up” Booth assignments available for evaluators 40 or older, for completion on the following dates. You will be paid $18 plus any required entrance fee and parking expenses for one person, for each assignment. You will be visiting a specific event location... Continue Reading
ID Check Shop - 10 Minute Shop - $20 shopper pay/$35 Expenses - AL, AR, AZ, CA, FL, IN, NY, TX, MD, VA
July 30, 2018
Brewhouse ID Check shops available and are looking for shoppers to complete them! Shops need to be completed 7/30 or 7/31! This is a quick and easy shop! You are your guest must be between 21-30 years old. Go to the bar, order a drink and see if... Continue Reading
Does MF pay for taxes?
July 27, 2018
There used to be one shop that if I ordered a drink I would not be reimbursed for. Tax because I would go over the max reimbursement. I just did the burger shop plus milkshake and got the bare minimum but my total is a dollar over because of... Continue Reading
5 minute Bar Decoy Shop - Frederick, MD - $20 Shopper pay + $35 Expenses!
July 24, 2018
We have decoy shops at a popular Brewhouse in Frederick, MD - and we are in need of shoppers or shoppers with guests between 21-30 years old to complete these shops! It's a 5-minute shop - the decoy orders an alcoholic drink and sees if they are asked for ID. ... Continue Reading
Trendsource: EIN vs SSN
July 10, 2018
Hi folks, I didn't see this addressed after performing a search, so I hope I didn't miss something. I'm nearing the $500 mark on non-reimbursable payments from Trendsource for this year, so I'm getting e-mails telling me I need to give them an EIN, *not* an SSN. From their website: "The Source... Continue Reading
Get paid to order drinks! $35 Expenses, $10 Shopper pay!
June 18, 2018
Visit a popular Brewhouse to get paid to drink! Either you or your guest needs to be 21-30 years old. Only 8 question survey! Reimburse- $35 Shopper Pay- $10 Mobile AL 36608 Huntsville AL 35806 Mobile AL 36608 Phoenix AZ 85050 Oxnard CA 93030 Temecula CA 92591 Newport Beach CA 92661 Los Angeles CA 90024 Valencia CA 91355 Rancho Santa Margarita CA 92688 Modesto... Continue Reading
SFO International Airport Shops - Shopper pay $20-$25 + Expenses
June 11, 2018
SFO International Airport Shops available! Traveling into or out of SFO International this month or you are a badged shopper for this airport? These shops are POST Security: Grab - N Go Shop: Terminal 3 Boarding Area F Monday -Friday ONLY 11 am - 5 pm Shopper Pay: $20, Expenses: up to $25 Parking: up to... Continue Reading
Canada shops/ Canada taxes
May 16, 2018
I have a friend that’s new to mystery shopping that lives in Canada. For those of you in Canada how does it work being an independent contractor there? It would just be a part time job maybe $1000-1500 a year. They already work full time and pay into the system... Continue Reading
Providing social security number
May 13, 2018
How safe is it to provide my SSN as part of the application process to be a shopper for a company?... Continue Reading
Proving Income
April 28, 2018
How should I go about proving MS income? I am wanting to rent an apartment soon and this is my main source of income for now. Should I start using accounting software such as Quickbooks?... Continue Reading
Ardent Services EIN number
April 16, 2018
Hi All, I'm wondering if anyone has the EIN number for Ardent Services. I misplaced my 1099 and can't file. I reached out to Corey, but haven't heard back. Thanks!... Continue Reading
Newbie from Pennsylvania filing my taxes... help? Haha. Read on to hear my plight.
March 28, 2018
So... I received 7 1099 forms guys... and HR Block software is new to me since this is my first time doing this and not just a W2.. that I could get prepared for free as a low income worker. I read a ton here and I kept great... Continue Reading
Filing taxes online... who's the best in your experience?
March 27, 2018
I have used H&R for 6 years now... and kinda been sticking to that since they have all my records but as I'm winding down and gearing up to pay SE tax this year (previous years had enough W2 work paid in to cover it all) I'm second guessing the... Continue Reading
Part-time work - Abingdon, Bristol and Wytheville areas of VA - 16 stores, $50 per store + mileage
March 22, 2018
Work is for a major grocery retailer - installing new dividers and PIP slider cards. NO POG - just installing of dividers. IF you are in that area and have merchandising experience - please PM me and i'll share the rest of the details (store list, companies etc)... Continue Reading
$35 Expenses $10 Shopper Pay for Drinks and dinner! you our guest 21-30 years old
March 08, 2018
Don't miss out on our best shop right now! Popular Brewhouse ID Check shops! 21-30 years old (you or your guest) $35 Expenses & $10 Shopper Pay for Drinks and dinner! 5:30-9pm ONLY 8 QUESTION SURVEY!! Email chelsey.ovenell@mercsystems.com AR Little Rock 72205 AR North Little Rock 72116 AZ Chandler 85226 AZ Phoenix 85050 CA Brea 92821 CA Vacaville 95687 CA Montebello 90640 CA Concord 94520 CA San Rafael 94903 CA Temecula 92591 CA Modesto 95356 CA San Rafael 94903 CA Escondido 92025 CA Salinas 93906 CA Los Angeles 90024 CA Valencia 91355 CA Victorville 92392 CA Culver City 90230 CA City of Industry 91748 CA Rancho Santa Margarita 92688 CA Dublin 94568 CA Santa Rosa 95401 CA Anaheim Hills 92808 CA Torrance 90503 CA Modesto 95356 CA Chula Vista 91910 CA Stockton 95207 CA Palmdale 93551 CA San Jose 95123 CA Vacaville 95687 CA Woodland Hills 91367 CA Oxnard 93030 CA Laguna... Continue Reading
Need EIN number for Market Force Information LLC
March 08, 2018
Can someone tell me the EIN for Market Force? Just need this information to complete my returns.... Continue Reading
1099 question
March 02, 2018
When an MSC sends you 1099, showing income paid to you, does any of that include reimbursement amounts or are those generally not included? thank you.... Continue Reading
Boston Logan International Airport - Dining Shops Available - 2/26-2/28 - $40 Shopper pay + Expenses
February 26, 2018
Traveling into or out of Boston Logan International Airport or are a badged shopper for this airport? We have two lunch/dinner shops available at popular Bistro location You will dine in the bar area. You will evaluate customer service and food quality. Shopper Pay: $35 Pay... Continue Reading
Denver International Airport - Bar shop available - 2/26-2/28 - $40 Pay + Expenses!
February 26, 2018
Are you traveling into or out of Denver International airport or you are a badged shopper for this airport? We have bar integrity shop at a popular Sports Bar and restaurant location. The shop must be completed by February 28th. For this shop, you will sit at... Continue Reading
Mystery Shopping, 1099, and the taxes... I feel much better this year.
February 10, 2018
I've been shopping for about five years, but my first three years I was strictly with MSI & Marketforce. I had no idea so many others existed so when I started shopping full time last year, taxes began to feel a bit overwhelming, even with great records and all the... Continue Reading
Question about phone bill for taxes
February 06, 2018
My phone has two lines , one for me and one for my wife. She obviously uses her line for personal use 100%. I use mine for personal use and my day job use about 10% and 90% for mystery shopping...how would I claim that expense? As 90% of my... Continue Reading
Does Sinclair or PersontoPerson send 1099's if you've resigned/deactivated yourself?
February 02, 2018
I left both of these companies last year and although I kept spreadsheets, I seem to have failed to print my shop logs or I've stuck them somewhere and with moving twice they've gone poof. I like to keep hard copies in my folders and cannot for the life of... Continue Reading
Maritz 1099
January 29, 2018
Has anyone gotten theirs yet? I'm waiting on 1099's from a couple of companies, actually.... Continue Reading
1099-Misc Forms
January 29, 2018
I'm expecting Market force and Intelli-shop to send these out to me this year since I topped $600 for both, do they usually get them out in january? I'm not sure how this income will affect my tax situation in 2017 and am anxious to get the filing over... Continue Reading
TSN EIN
January 28, 2018
I need the EIN for Texas Shopper Network. I couldn't get any info for a 1099 over the phone. I'm just trying to get my income reported.... Continue Reading
Safe to give SSN to Market Force?
January 24, 2018
I am new to mystery shopping and I realize for tax purposes they must ask for my SSN but I am very apprehensive to giving it out. I signed up at Market Force is this a safe site to give SSN?... Continue Reading
taxes
January 23, 2018
This may have already been answered. I am adding up my totals for filing taxes. Do I add up just the fees and ignore the reimbursements or do I add up the total received and claim the reimbursements as deductions? Thank you in advance... Continue Reading
Help--income tax shop - how to answer prequalifier question
January 19, 2018
Do they want a yes or no answer for this question???? Our refund is typically around that amount. Will answering one way or another exclude me from the shop? Do you anticipate your FEDERAL refund (either single or married filing jointly) to be equal to or greater than $1,500.... Continue Reading
MS income for taxes ?
January 19, 2018
Do you show your MS income as hobby income, self employment income(Schedule C ?) OR just as a regular income (add it to your regular income). This is my first year of filing returns as a shopper. Basically tax professionals are human being's just like us (many are good... Continue Reading
Asking for SSN?
January 18, 2018
Is it safe to put in your SSN awhile creating an account to become a mystery shopper??? Is it a necessity?... Continue Reading
Employee Mileage & DT
January 12, 2018
I was recently hired by a company that you have to keep track of mileage and all drive time. The 40 mile & 1 hour applies. Is it unreasonable to believe I'm on the clock as soon as I have to write down my odometer reading & time I leave?... Continue Reading
Doing taxes with flat rate shops
January 10, 2018
If a Donut shop pays $15 flat rate and you buy $10 of donuts (not reimbursed), how do you claim taxes on that?... Continue Reading
Market Force and SSN card
January 10, 2018
Hi fellow shoppers. Good morning and hope you're having a good day so far. I wanted to ask the group a question about Market Force. Would you highly recommend them as a company to shop for? I'm asking because they are requiring that I show an actual Social Security... Continue Reading
SSN Pending
January 09, 2018
My ssn has been pending with a couple of companies almost two months. Is this common? These companies won't pay until it is verified. I appreciate any input.... Continue Reading
Mileage deductions while visiting family; Any special rules?
January 08, 2018
I've been staying with a friend/family for two weeks to provide them some much needed company. It's only 25 minutes from my house, but I have been making trips to the post office twice a week for my online shop. Are there special rules about deducting these miles? I typically... Continue Reading
Just accepted a tax prep shop -- won't my mystery shopping income give me away?
January 05, 2018
So I just accepted a shop assignment for tax preparation. I had to accept before I could see full instructions, which I've just looked over. Since I have to file taxes on my mystery shopping income, will I not immediately be giving myself away??!! As expected, the guidelines do not... Continue Reading
Do Not Forget to Write Your End of the Year Mileage!
December 30, 2017
Maybe, a little early, but wanted to make sure it was said.... Continue Reading
Mileage/gas for tax purposes
December 28, 2017
Can I claim gas as an expense on my taxes as a mystery shopper? I have multiple receipts of fuel usage, is that enough, or do I have to be more detailed....for example, the shop is 25 miles away so I purchased 2 gallons of unleaded?... Continue Reading
New Mileage Rates Released... Apologies if someone already posted.
December 23, 2017
Forgot to post a couple of days ago but I figured someone else hit on it already. Still waiting on the new tax bills and all that -- but anyway looks like the rate went up. https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/standard-mileage-rates-for-2018-up-from-rates-for-2017... Continue Reading
JMRidgeway Did Not Reimburse My Expenses!
December 19, 2017
I completed my first job for JMRidgeway. It was $15 PLUS up to $5.50 to buy a cup of coffee. The coffee cost me $3.76 and was so bad I had to toss it. I wanted to call the manager, but that is a “no-no” for mystery shoppers. My... Continue Reading
Potential lower taxes for this sideline income?
December 18, 2017
Good morning everyone. I have a question to ask. I am wondering if anyone out there has any thoughts/input towards how our taxes on MSC income may be affected by the upcoming potential new tax structure? Taxes are something that is a bit beyond me - I... Continue Reading
Taxes question
December 09, 2017
This year most of the shops I have completed were reimbursement shops (restaurants etc). I did not make much (total is under $4). I worry if my ratio of income ($ paid for performing shops and $ for food reimbursement) vs expenses ($ spent on food and mileage) is appropriate.... Continue Reading
Tax bill mileage deduction was it eliminated?
December 02, 2017
Did the new tax bill eliminate mileage deduction? If it does that would end most of my mystery shopping. How about you? I would still do shops for eating out.... Continue Reading
taxes
November 27, 2017
For reporting tax purposes, if a company does not send a 1099, I still report it as income, but what do I provide as proof of that income? Is there an official document of some sort that I need to create to attach?... Continue Reading
Mileage
November 26, 2017
Does anyone deduct mileage for traveling to shops on their taxes? Are there any other deductions? I'm also wondering if you can deduct the cost PV500.... Continue Reading
Reporting Income Correctly
November 05, 2017
Quick question. If a shopper completes an assignment in December, he/she gets paid in January 2018. Is it correct to report this income in 2017, or 2018? Thanks.... Continue Reading
Why do companies ask for SSN. It make me nervous
October 14, 2017
I've notice that some companies as for your SSN in the shopper application. Why is this?... Continue Reading
Combining Fees and Reimbursements on taxes
September 22, 2017
Some shoppers have mentioned they combine all fees and reimbursements together to find their yearly income, then deduct the reimbursements to show their taxable income. For shoppers that do this, what if the receipt exceeded the maximum allowed reimbursement? Example, you were told you would be reimbursed up to $10,... Continue Reading
HS Brands SSN issue
September 04, 2017
Apparently when I signed up for HS Brands, I entered the wrong SSN number. I have tried to go into my profile and change it, but it keeps rejecting my change. I have tried emailing them, even including the change I'm pretty sure needs to be made (it's... Continue Reading
How do you report your income?
August 24, 2017
Please help me with filling out tax forms.... Continue Reading
Excel Spreadsheet for Shopping expenses
August 24, 2017
Has anyone developed a spreadsheet for keeping a record of shops and expenses?... Continue Reading
SSN
August 24, 2017
Hi I am in the process of joining ath Power Consulting Corporation but was asked to enter my SSN. Is this part of their requirement?... Continue Reading
Using an EIN rather than SS#
August 23, 2017
So one of my MSCs just sent me a notice that they are going to be relying more on shoppers who have an EIN (Employee Identification Number) rather than a Social Security number. They say that "more companies will be doing so" because it promotes more of a "professional" or... Continue Reading
Quarterly taxes penalty for the self employed.
August 16, 2017
https://www.thepennyhoarder.com/smart-money/estimated-tax-penalty/?utm_source=daily0816&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=newsy&utm_content=quarterly-tax-penalty I found this article interesting. I've never considered having to pay quarterly taxes.... Continue Reading
Income potential
August 06, 2017
I have a personal question. How much do you make doing this part time? I live in Chicago and there seem to be ample opportunities and I'm trying to decide if this is something I could do during the day on a part time basis and make a... Continue Reading
SSN Pending? BWW
July 24, 2017
Hello, I signed up for a few MSC. One MSC state that my SSN is pending. Been seeing this for more than a week now. Is there something I need to do? The MSC says I will not get paid for shops until this is taken care of. Also, I... Continue Reading
1099 question
July 18, 2017
Do the MSCs count reimbursements toward reportable income? I understand that it shouldn't be taxable, but just wondering if it is included toward the $600 requirement or not. I'm guessing the answer is no, but just want to confirm. Thanks!... Continue Reading
Travel expenses in hotel shops.
July 17, 2017
Hi gyus! I need an advice of experienced shoppers in hotel evaluation area. I have been working as a full time shopper around eight month. After I performed more than 1000 different shops, I decide to do more hotels shops. Probably it would not be more profitable, however, it could... Continue Reading
EPMS Released My Social Security Number To A Total Stranger
July 02, 2017
I received a letter from Joanna Ellis at EPMS - Ellis Partners Management Solutions. The letter is dated February 2017. It says EPMS accidentally sent my tax form 1099 to another shoppers address. Please note it says to another shopper (not some random unknown person). The letter goes on to... Continue Reading
Independent contractor taxes
June 18, 2017
This will be the first year I'll be claiming my income from mystery shopping on taxes. Any advice? Do I need to create a business name and all that good stuff? I want to write off my mileage, gas, etc. suggestions welcome!... Continue Reading
Do I need to provide my social security number for Western Union "Send" scenario?
June 11, 2017
Just wondering what personal information I need to provide to do a Western Union "send" scenario? Are they usually quick shops? Any landmines I should watch out for? How is the report?... Continue Reading
Using Tax EIN instead of SS#
May 30, 2017
I'm nervous about having so many companies having my Social Security Number. I got an EIN from the IRS for a Sole Proprietorship. Am I allowed to switch to that number for the companies I have already signed up for?... Continue Reading
How to record mileage for multiple stops along a route?
April 23, 2017
Hello all, I'm new here. I downloaded the free spreadsheet posted in the pinned link above but I have questions about how to input my mileage when I am driving a route and have more than one stop. How do I record that on the spreadsheet? I... Continue Reading
Market force SSN fax
April 19, 2017
I was working with them for last 3 months. I was not able to see available shops since last week, so I emailed Helpdesk. I got the reply that I need to fax my SSN as the SSN which I provided earlier was not validated properly. When I said that... Continue Reading
Taxes- Canada
April 12, 2017
Hi , This is for my fellow Canadian friends ? 1. How do you report profit made on USD CAD conversion for reimbursements ? 2. If you spend $200 for auto repairs, where you would be reimbursed only up to $75, would you claim whole $200 as deduction ? Thanks... Continue Reading
Mileage request amount?
March 14, 2017
How much money do you usually request per mile? Also TrendSource is always low on their miles to the actual shop. How do you address that?... Continue Reading
How on earth do schedulers calculate mileage?
March 10, 2017
I got a call from Informa to do a shop 16 miles from me. Nice pay for a 32 mile round trip I thought, so I asked the exact location. The scheduler mentions a city that is at best a 34 mile drive and 45 minutes away. ... Continue Reading
MSC Reporting Inaccurate Mileage
March 07, 2017
The mileage shown for the majority shops is inaccurate information. Most of the scheduler's, I have conversed with has acknowledged this as truth. Therefore, I hope fellow shoppers are mindful of this known fact when planning your routes or only shopping!... Continue Reading
Income Tax shop - Assets lost value?
February 27, 2017
Hi, I am thinking to apply for income tax shop. One qualifying question is: Have any assets that you own lost value over 2016 tax year? Does that apply to my car that I depreciate as I use it for getting to my shops? I am afraid maybe this refers... Continue Reading
What kind of card do you charge your expenses to?
February 10, 2017
Has anyone ever had a cash back credit card and charged all their mystery shopping expenses to it? Would you consider this beneficial? That way, not only are you getting reimbursed for those expenses (obviously if you did a shop which the company states they'll reimburse you), you're also getting a... Continue Reading
IRS Audit Due to Mystery Shopping?
February 05, 2017
Who among you have you been audited due to your reported mystery shopping Schedule C income or reported losses? I am interested in the frequency that this sort of self-employment triggers an audit. Furthermore, have you been challenged on your assertion that your work qualifies as a business... Continue Reading
IPSOS 1099
February 05, 2017
Hey Guys Does IPSOS generates 1099 with all the reimbursements? Some of their shops has pretty large reimbursements however they were not my income. I haven't got the 1099 yet but asking if someone has got it already. Also as I will be doing taxes as personal taxes I can not... Continue Reading
Did anyone receive their 1099 form from Market Force?
February 03, 2017
Just curious if anyone has received their 1099 form from Market Force? Thanks!... Continue Reading
When do 1099s arrive?
January 18, 2017
Hi all, I was going to take advantage of one of the tax preparation jobs as my records are quite good and I know the 1099s are just informational, but I thought I would hang on just to be safe. Does anyone know when companies start sending them out? Does... Continue Reading
Income Tax Shops
January 10, 2017
For those of you who have completed income tax shops for Marketforce, how did you get around the 1099 forms from MSCs?... Continue Reading
Great resource for Schedule C taxes & deductions.
January 09, 2017
Hello! Well tax time is here, and Lifehacker had a good article about deducting business expenses: http://twocents.lifehacker.com/you-can-write-off-late-fees-on-a-business-credit-card-1790920840. They had a link to a 100-pg. PDF https://www.nase.org/sf-docs/default-source/publications/Schedule_C_from_A_to_Z_2012_edition.pdf?sfvrsn=0 . It's from the National Association for the Self-Employed. It seems to have lots of information and is easy to use (it's a big... Continue Reading
Uh Oh.... Mileage is down with the IRS...
December 22, 2016
•53.5 cents per mile for business miles driven, down from 54 cents for 2016. Also I just learned that January 23 is when you can start filing. All this on the IRS.gov site... Then I saw this: Taxpayers always have the option of calculating the actual costs of using their vehicle... Continue Reading
Doing your own Taxes. What program do you use?
December 22, 2016
I did a little research and found Turbo Tax was rated the best. If you do your own taxes with your mystery shopping, what program do you use? How much did you pay for all programs *portions) needed to successfully do your taxes? Any difficulty in preparing your own taxes... Continue Reading
"Special Expenses"
December 05, 2016
I just saw a couple of job postings where there is a fee listed and then a line that says "special expenses." Does anyone know what that is supposed to be? Is that considered a bonus?... Continue Reading
Travel expenses
November 25, 2016
Happy Black Friday, I have opportunity to do some computer audits this weekend. I live near Dallas and can perform one or more assignments in Houston and they tell me to name my travel expense. I have never claimed travel expenses beyond tolls so I wonder what you guys think... Continue Reading
PayPal Deductions
November 15, 2016
Do you contract with any MSC's that charge you to have your pay sent to PayPal? I just found that Second to None charges $1 but will allow free bank direct deposits. I prefer to avoid providing bank routing information.... Continue Reading
income levels
October 17, 2016
Hi- I'm new and have only signed up with a couple of companies. I found that some of them ask for household income level and I don't feel comfortable sharing that on the application. Does anyone have suggestions on companies that don't require that info on their applications?... Continue Reading
Do you count payment for meals as income on taxes?
October 15, 2016
I was wondering if reimbursement for meals that you get on a restaurant shop (or part of it) counts as income on income taxes. I've searched this forum for answers and also online. I don't have an accountant, so I'd appreciate and guidance from those of you who have been... Continue Reading
Social security numbers
October 13, 2016
I am new to the organization . I am fearful of giving my Social Security Number over the internet. Do all companies request your S.S. number?... Continue Reading
Mileage and deductions
October 06, 2016
Should I record and deduct only the mileage to the shop or round trip to come home? Thanks!... Continue Reading
Doing taxes
September 16, 2016
I apologise ifthis is posted somewhere and I haven't found it. When you do your taxes with mystery shopping, I won't make $600 with one company but will over all the shops this year that I have done combined if that makes sense. So I won't get a... Continue Reading
Best app for keeping track of mileage?
September 04, 2016
I'm notoriously bad at keeping track of mileage. An app WOULD help. Suggestions? And any other apps that experienced shoppers find helpful besides Evernote?... Continue Reading
Jobslinger - EIN problem
September 01, 2016
I am signed up with Jobslinger and put in my EIN #. It shows that it can't be verified. I have given it to many SASSIE companies without any problem. I put in the correct number. Has anyone else had this problem? ... Continue Reading
IRS is Filing a Lawsuit Against Me
September 01, 2016
I have been called about 3 times in the past few weeks with this same "scam" robo call. Is there anyway to put a stop to it?... Continue Reading
SSN Verification
August 15, 2016
Hello! I really some help! I am registered with at least 20 different MSC, and NONE of them are able to verify my SSN. I got married April 30, 2016, and assumed my husband's last name. I obtained a new SS card over two weeks ago with my new married... Continue Reading
How to determine mileage bonus
July 30, 2016
I`m wondering if fellow shoppers have a standard rate when asking for mileage reimbursements. I had a scheduler ask me to name my price and I had no clue. I panicked and pulled $30 out of thin air. It would have costed me $11 gas, I asked for $30 and... Continue Reading
Taxes and the spreadsheet
July 12, 2016
I'm starting a new thread about keeping track of expenses for taxes. If the mods need to move it to the original thread, please do so. I called my accountant about what we can or cannot take as expenses on our schedule C for the tax year of 2016. Meals may... Continue Reading
SSN Status
July 07, 2016
Hello everyone, I have registered with Intellishop and I notice that my SSN status is taking some time to clear. I registered with my married name and I think this might be causing an issue. How long should it take to verify my number?... Continue Reading
Paying taxes as a shopper
June 05, 2016
Do mystery shopping Companies send us any kind of forms at the end of the year for tax purposes. .... Continue Reading
SSN request
May 16, 2016
If supposed to be independent contractor, why the need for a SSN? Am I being overly concerned about identity theft?... Continue Reading
Taxes
May 15, 2016
Are reimbursements taxable? Are they considered income? How do you file quarterly? How do you pay Social Security taxes? Can't seem to find the answers when I Google them........... Continue Reading
Merchandiser Independent Contractor Mileage Question.
May 15, 2016
-- moved topic -- ... Continue Reading
Were you aware the IRS cut Mileage from $.575 to $.54 per mile?
May 06, 2016
The IRS cut our mileage deduction from $.575 down to $.54 representing a 6% decrease in our ability to expense jobs. I did not know they dropped mileage expense, when did you figure this out?... Continue Reading
EIN vs SSN Identity Theft
April 25, 2016
I've been doing a lot of reading about using an EIN as a sole proprietor instead of your SSN to reduce your risk of identity theft for MS. I haven't found the answer to this question: Can identity thieves take out loans with your EIN? If so, how would using... Continue Reading
MSC that do not require SSN?
April 24, 2016
I am an international student in the U.S. on a student visa and I am unable to get a SSN... long story and don't want to deal with bureaucracy. What MSC's do not require SSN until you reach $600 or do not require SSN at all? Thanks... Continue Reading
$5/mo internet for low income households
April 24, 2016
This evening's news mentions that as part of the AT&T agreement with their take over of DirecTV they have agreed to provide internet service for $5 per month to any household where at least one member receives food stamps. The program is expected to continue until 2020. If... Continue Reading
Taxes - Can I report only income made?
April 11, 2016
(This is my first time filling out the schedule c and I'm using Turbotax for businesses owners.) I'm just wondering if it's okay to report only the total amount of money I made mystery shopping during 2015. I didn't keep a log of my miles and I don't have all my... Continue Reading
Using A Fake SSN# for a Shop
April 07, 2016
This topic was discussed a few years ago, however, for me, I need the conversation updated. I've been offered several high paying shops where the client is reviewing their finance department. The shop requires the purchase and financing of a big ticket item, using a fake SSN#... Continue Reading
Contemplating :[ After I had prepared my taxes. It may be time for me to do less of mystery shopping,
March 29, 2016
It may be time for me to do less of mystery shopping. After driving to and from route of shops. I figured that I may not be fully making all that money. Gas and time, and reports afterwards. This actually started as a stepping stone, until I found a... Continue Reading
Working a tax prep shop, and telling them about your mystery shopping income?
March 28, 2016
Has anyone done a tax prep shop and claim your mystery shopping income during these shop? I've been tempted to sign up for these tax prep shop, but I don't know what they would think of me when I tell them about the other income. Thoughts?... Continue Reading
Anyone doing your taxes through H&R Block?
February 29, 2016
Hi everyone, I was wondering if anyone is doing their taxes through an H&R Block office (not online). My tax preparer is asking for each and every one of the 1099's even under the $600 threshold, in order to process my taxes, "as a protection because those are the rules with... Continue Reading
Income drop due to retirement
February 18, 2016
So, I am retiring soon and my earned income will drop about 95%. I will make it up through unearned income such as pension, annuities and such. Does income mean earned income, or can it include unearned income?... Continue Reading
Didn't file taxes last year, but am preparing for this year
February 17, 2016
Hello, I am new to the forum, though I have lurked. I'm inquiring here now because I know now I need to file taxes for 2015, because all income needs to be reported. I made the mistake of not reporting the income I made in 2014 as a college student.... Continue Reading
Casual mystery shopping as a way to supplement income?
February 13, 2016
I'm totally new to mystery shopping (haven't actually done it yet) and am trying to figure out how I can fit it in in a way that makes sense. I work a regular 9-5 job and have a family so I'm trying to find ways I can do shops... Continue Reading
Mileage on tax return
February 10, 2016
Hello, I have just finished my first year of Mystery Shopping. I made almost 7000 dollars. After deducting all of my expenses and mileage my income came out to 64 dollars. Is this normal? Thanks... Continue Reading
1099 and disability questions
February 09, 2016
the lady friend is on disability so she has to turn over all her pay stubs to her mother who then fills out the paperwork for monthly income i have started her mystery shopping and she is wondering when to report her income and if she as flexibility from month... Continue Reading
IRS computer failures
February 04, 2016
CNBC reports IRS computer failures: http://www.msn.com/en-us/money/taxes/irs-experiencing-computer-failure-report-says/ar-BBp5Jug?ocid=mailsignout... Continue Reading
Online Tax Programs and Business Income
February 03, 2016
Forgive me if this has been discussed: I have used TaxAct online for years and it successfully navigated me through business income and self-employment taxes. This year, they are charging for that feature. Does anyone know of another similar software that does not charge for this part... Continue Reading
Suggested Forum: Mystery Shopping and Taxes
January 30, 2016
This seems like a very common topic where shoppers ask about taxes. There are many wonderful posts out there already that should be stickied and a dedicated forum is the best place to stick em!. If I have a question about taxes, the first thing I do is... Continue Reading
Taxes
January 27, 2016
This was my first year as a Mystery Shopper. I had surgery and was out of work and had to do something. I really enjoyed shopping. I didn't make much, just enough for gas to get my kids back and forth to school. OK, so now its... Continue Reading
1099s??
January 25, 2016
I work for one company that does only dining shops, and pays only reimbursements. Yet they sent me a 1099! It's my understanding that reimbursements of required purchases are NOT income. But this 1099 lists them as such. Has anyone else had this happen? How do you... Continue Reading
Taxes-Reimbursed and not reimbursed-where?
January 25, 2016
I know this topic has been covered. I did a search and I'm having a heck of a time finding last years tax thread. Can someone point me in the right direction. I'm trying to figure out where on the form I put these items. I know there has been... Continue Reading
I already received a W-2 and a 1099!
January 20, 2016
Yesterday in the mail, I received a W-2 and a 1099 statement and was quite surprised to see them so early. :) Have you guys received any 1099's or W-2's yet?... Continue Reading
Does anyone use a Federal EIN number for mystery shopping?
January 13, 2016
Hi, I'm a long time reader of this forum but this is the first time I have posted. I have been mystery shopping for over seven years and am signed up with over 200 companies. In that time I have been using my name and SSN for payment.... Continue Reading
Is it too early to start a 2015 Taxes Thread?
January 08, 2016
I know it's barely January, but I got an early copy of Turbo Tax and have been noodling with my expected taxes. I need to wait for my W2 for my day job which is at least a few weeks out, but I've got some questions about the MS... Continue Reading
Cold truth about mystery shopping - $3/hour average after expenses.
January 05, 2016
I see the same blowhards like bgriffin the woman who pretends she's a man on this board are still bloviating about their "big" fees. I have a regular job now and make 6k/month and do mystery shopping on the side. I mastered mystery shopping in 2014--took about 4 weeks to... Continue Reading
Would you do mystery shopping if it's the ONLY reason you have to file income taxes?
December 30, 2015
I'm now on Social Security, getting enough to pay rent and pay bills. I also do part time work as a caregiver for a company. Because you have to pay Social Security and Medicare taxes yourself, when doing mystery shopping, I have to file a tax return. Now I have... Continue Reading
Started my Social Security this month. This will make mystery shopping easier
December 25, 2015
I started on my Social Security this month. Now mystery shopping will be a choice and not something I NEED to do, to pay the rent and bills. It will be more relaxing. Merry Christmas everyone. I look forward to a more profitable year.... Continue Reading
Advice for tracking mystery shopping expenses and income?
December 22, 2015
The payments from mystery shopping are so diverse and are usually for small amounts. Not to mention, they come in either by check or more often paypal. How do you keep record of them? I just linked all my accounts on mint.com so I can actually see where my money... Continue Reading
Quality Shopper - Not a 1099 IC job with no guaranteed work and 2+ days effort to get hired. Anyone bite?
December 20, 2015
Has anyone found it worth jumping through all these hoops? This is not 1099 and is hourly pay. They do not say what the hourly rate is past the testing at minimum wage and base it on your area cost of living. By paying you an hourly wage and not... Continue Reading
MSCs that pay mileage
November 30, 2015
What MSCs pay mileage? The only one I know of for sure is HC, but they only pay .36/mile, which is less than what the IRS allows. Since I am spending so much time in my car and am considering buying a hybrid because f the gas/mileage situation, I'm wondering... Continue Reading
Can you claim this expense on your income tax?
November 11, 2015
I did a reimbursement only shop lately. I was supposed to purchase a skin care product and get up to $40 reimbursed. However, any skin care product at this boutique is above $55. So I ended up spending $60 with tax. That is $20 out of my own pocket.... Continue Reading
$70,000 or more in annual income
November 10, 2015
Just received an email about some new revealed audits. The audits can take up to two hours and may require up to 45 photos. There is no narrative. The requirements are a shopper score of 8 or better and an annual household income of $70,000 or more. Oh... Continue Reading
Which tax software do you use for filing taxes
November 10, 2015
This is the first year I'll have to report income for mystery shopping. What tax software do you use? The only write off I'll have is for mileage. I don't have a cell phone, my computer and printer are over 5 years old. Except for mileage, I cannot think... Continue Reading
Mystery shopping and collecting Social Security
November 02, 2015
Has anyone has an issue of collecting social security and doing mystery shopping? I'll start getting Social Security in December. I know the limits for earnings is just over $15,000. I won't make that much. Have you had other issues? I just read this on the Social Security site: "if... Continue Reading
Taxable Work-Related Expense Deductions
November 02, 2015
So, in trying to be proactive about taxes this year I thought of a few mystery-shopping related tax questions... Scenario: A mystery shop company will pay $30 to go try on and purchase a dress from an upscale boutique. The shop instructions dictate that you MUST purchase a dress from... Continue Reading
Is it normal for company to ask for SSN
October 29, 2015
I did mystery shopping years ago & now going at it again. One company is asking for my SSN which I don't recall ever providing that in past. The company asking for SSN is Sinclair, is that normal to provide my social.... Continue Reading
What is fair mileage?
October 26, 2015
I am wondering what is fair mileage to offer a company to do their shop? I live in a very rural area, and there is a town that is quite out of the way, but there are occasional shops there. What is a fair amount to ask, and does... Continue Reading
Registering with multiple companies using social security number
October 26, 2015
I have done a few shops now using 3 different companies, each requiring I include my social security number upon registration. I have searched the forum for information but not finding the answer to my question. My question is, should I be cautious with how many companies I... Continue Reading
On doing taxes and mystery shopping. What if you don't make enough income to even report?
October 23, 2015
I am barely able to make rent each month. I'm single, no children. I'm 62, do a lot of mystery shopping and have friends helping me get by until December. How would I handle taxes if I don't even make enough to report? I'll start getting Social Security at... Continue Reading
Market Force EIN
October 15, 2015
Hi all. With tax extension due tomorrow... finally sitting down to complete what I started lol. I'm currently on a trip and left my 1099 at home. Can someone tell me the EIN for Market Force? Just need this information to complete my returns. Thanks in advance.... Continue Reading
Worker's Comp Deductions
October 11, 2015
I have 4% workers comp insurance deducted from my paychecks. I understand this is automatic if I don't carry my own. Is this normal. Only one company that I do independent contractor work for does this. I do have my own medical insurance.... Continue Reading
Mileage
October 08, 2015
If I decide to become a MS how far do I travel, I don't like traveling far from home. How do I decide on what company's are best for me? How do I get started on a job? I have so many questions and can't find the answers I need.... Continue Reading
SASSIE Social Security Verification Time - New to Shopping, Help!?
September 29, 2015
I am very new to mystery shopping (just did my first shop today) but signed up for a bunch of SASSIE companies (Beyond Hello, HS Brands International, Intellishop, GFK, Compliance Solutions Worldwide) and am wondering how long it takes for my social to be verified? Additionally, if the "pay date"... Continue Reading
Social Security Number Collection
September 28, 2015
I found the following message on one mystery shopping company's site and believe that all mystery shopping companies should adopt this policy immediately. If nothing else, they are setting themselves up for a lot of trouble if they get hacked and it is really not necessary since a majority... Continue Reading
1099?
September 24, 2015
Hi Everyone! Do any of the msc's 1099 you if you make under $600.00 a year with them?... Continue Reading
Social Security Numbers
September 12, 2015
When a mystery shop company goes out of business or the mystery shopper resigns from a mystery shop company, what does that company do with your social security number that you had to give to them?... Continue Reading
Sassie Shop SSN Verification Time
September 08, 2015
Hi, I've been signed up for multiple Sassie Shop websites for about 10 days now. I have a few scheduled shops coming up soon and my SSN still isn't verified. The websites all say that it will be verified from as soon as instantly and can take up to 3-7... Continue Reading
Email & SSN Verification Issues
August 10, 2015
Hi All! I've been signing up with various MSC and I've come across one or two issues that seem to reoccur: no email or SSN verification. I keep waiting and waiting but nothing changes in my status and I don't get email verification notes in my email. I... Continue Reading
Calculating Mileage
August 08, 2015
Hello All! I apologize if this was covered previously. I did a search and found quite a bit of helpful information on the subject, but not a direct answer to my question... I really bumped up the amount of shopping I've done this year, which is a good thing, but I'm... Continue Reading
Taxes
August 01, 2015
I'm curious for anyone willing to help me out. Do I need to file taxes once I've reached $600 total, or for each MSC that I've reached $600 with? For example, if I am registered with 7 MSCs, and I make $100 from each one individually, should I... Continue Reading
Trendsource- EIN ?
July 22, 2015
So I just signed with Trendsource & they are asking for an EIN. Can I give my Social Security # instead? I don't want to get an EIN. I'm in California.... Continue Reading
Simple question about 1099s from a newbie
July 14, 2015
Hi all, I've been lurking on the board for a while and finally signed up and joined the conversation. Thanks to all the experienced shoppers on here who are patient with us noobs. :) I'm trying to figure out if I'm going to get any 1099s this year. I've done... Continue Reading
Reimbursement of expenses
July 04, 2015
I would like to know if you accept a shop and they say they will pay you $100.00 for doing the shop and up to $1,000.00 for expenses. Do companies always reimburse for the expenses even if they do not want to pay you for the shop? I... Continue Reading
Route out of the area...expenses?
June 18, 2015
If I do a route of 25 or so auto dealer shops, in another major city 300 miles away, and there are not many shoppers who can do these in the language they want it done....shouldn't there be some kind of extra incentive? The jobs pay $50 each. Or is... Continue Reading
Deductions : If a MSC is paid in full shouldn't the shopper as well?
June 14, 2015
We all can and will make mistakes. Aside from a report being rejected, I do not understand how a MSC can deduct from fees and even reimbursement if the client accepts and pays in full for a report. As a contractor, do shoppers deserve full disclosure any time... Continue Reading
note to self: check for street fairs before scheduling
May 31, 2015
trying to get to a location in an unfamiliar area...and run into a street fair...doesn't help calling to see if they are open.....sure they are open....but they don't say you have to park a half mile away and walk in...with a thunderstorm rolling into the area!... Continue Reading
IRS data hacked; beware of callers who seem to know about your return contents
May 28, 2015
Yesterday the IRS announced that thieves who had gained info from other sources about passwords and security questions used that to access the tax returns (current and past) of over 100,000 tax payers by getting into the service site that provides transcripts of own tax returns (needed when you apply... Continue Reading
Trendsource's EIN Requirement
May 25, 2015
I wanted to add Trendsource to the list of companies for which I shop. I went on their site to register and see that they require their shoppers to get an EIN. I don't meet any criteria for which the IRS would require that I obtain... Continue Reading
Exact Mileage or Total Mileage
May 22, 2015
I'm just curious - is it necessary to have the exact mileage numbers (for example: I began at 29,834 and ended at 29,844), rather than just logging that I drove 10 miles to that particular shop? I wasn't sure if for some reason in the future that would I need... Continue Reading
How long does it take for your SSN to be verified in most Sassie systems?
May 10, 2015
Just curious... Continue Reading
Return Home Mileage Deduction - Definite Yes, No or Gray Area?
May 10, 2015
I am dutifully tracking my mileage to a shop and from one shop to the next shop. I have been under the impression that the return home mileage is not deductible UNLESS I happen to make a business related stop on the way home such as picking up office... Continue Reading
How do you handle taxes?
April 29, 2015
Do you pay at the end of the year when taxes are due? Do you pay quarterly? What are the benefits of each? Not sure how I'm going to do this. I cannot file the long form. I'm single no kids, no write offs.... Continue Reading
Got two 1099's from the same company?
April 13, 2015
Has anyone ever gotten two 1099s from the same company? (Yes, they are the same year. No, one is not marked "corrected")... Continue Reading
Deducting reimbursed expenses
April 11, 2015
Just wanted someone to clarify the terminology everyone uses as it relates to tax preparation (doing them right now grrrr). Reimbursed "expenses" (cash out of pocket to perform shops) are not truly "expenses" as this income should not be reported. When you work for an employer and they reimburse your out of... Continue Reading
Timing of Expenses for Tax Purposes
April 09, 2015
So I'm working on my taxes and I'm wondering about something. Nearly all of the income that I generated in December and some of November's wasn't paid until 2015 and I get that I will claim that income when I file next year. What I'm wondering is how to... Continue Reading
Finally doing taxes. Should I use Schedule C-EZ if I can?
April 08, 2015
Looks like I easily meet the requirements to use Schedule C-EZ for 2014. Any reason not to do so? Thanks for any advice.... Continue Reading
Harland Clarke mileage?
April 03, 2015
So Ive been shopping with Harland Clarke for a few months. I really like them but in the past 2 days, I've received two shop request emails with no mileage included. I've never seen their shops not offered with mileage and I'm wondering if anyone else is experiencing the same... Continue Reading
IRS and mileage deduction
April 03, 2015
I heard today that you cannot claim mileage from your house to a shop. You can only claim mileage from one shop to another. For example, I drove to *** and it was 12 miles to my first shop. Then, I went to three other shops in the same town... Continue Reading
In addition to shopping, what do you do for income?
April 01, 2015
Some here probably have regular jobs and shop on the side, but what about those piecing together income bit by bit? I'm looking for other ways to make some dough on short-term assignments without a set schedule.... Continue Reading
Has any mystery shopper ever been audited by the IRS?
March 26, 2015
I am keeping good records, and I don't anticipate any problems, but I was curious if anyone has been audited by the IRS (only as mystery shoppers, not other professions). I did a quick search on IRS audits through the forum and did not see any other threads indicating... Continue Reading
Intellishop-2 point deduction because they had to contact me.
March 22, 2015
I did a shop for Intellishop and submitted the report. I have done several of these shops over the past seven years. I get an e-mail with the following comment: A significant amount more detail is needed in all of your narratives. Each of these narratives should read... Continue Reading
Taxes and Supplying Backup
March 20, 2015
Do you provide a worksheet depicting your fees, reimbursements, expenditures and expenses to the IRS along with your return? I have never but was wondering if I should attach my spreadsheet this year.... Continue Reading
recording mileage
March 18, 2015
I am visiting family who is about 150 miles away from me, and while i'm visiting them i took a really simple gas station shop. I have been recording mileage, but should I record the mileage from my house to the gas station? or should I record the mileage from... Continue Reading
Taxes
March 18, 2015
Hi all, Have been wondering about what I should call myself. I want to do my taxes using H&R, and they will probably ask what my occupation/profession is. I cannot say that I am a mystery shopper?! Anybuddy has any idea.... Continue Reading
QAMS and the misguided 1099
March 11, 2015
Hello shoppers. Perhaps someone can help me. I did a search on the forum for this topic but didn't find anything. I nevr have luck with that. Also, I know QAMS sent out emails on this subject but I can't find mine. Anyway, they sent out a 1099 for amounts way... Continue Reading
I just got an email from Stericycle that they are sending out corrected 1099 that remove the reimbursement amount from their initial 1099.
March 07, 2015
-- moved topic -- ... Continue Reading
MSI Services - EIN vs. SSN
February 26, 2015
Does anyone know why MSI wants an EIN instead of a SSN for their shoppers? Do other companies require EIN's? This is the first time I've encountered this.... Continue Reading
Casual dining,taxes and schedule C
February 24, 2015
I'm doing my taxes as self employed. I already have a schedule C worksheet for Form 1040 for my sales on eBay. I need to report more income, I have 2 children. I worked for 5 mystery shop companies. None of them sent me a tax form because I didn't... Continue Reading
IRS FreeWebinar: Independent Contractor or Employee
February 21, 2015
Hi all My husband is a CPA and I do data entry for him. As a CPA, he needs to complete continuing education every year, and he likes me to do it with him as a learning experience for me. We just signed up for one that might be... Continue Reading
Schedule C and Unreimbursed Expenses and Questions That Arise
February 14, 2015
Regarding un-reimbursed expenses for Schedule C: If you are paid a fee only and the restaurant meal, taxes and tip exceed the fee received, do you claim all the dollar amount exceeding the fee as an expense of the shop? Or, in another version of the same scenario,... Continue Reading
1099's and Paypal
February 14, 2015
http://smallbiztrends.com/2015/01/1099-contractors-paypal-credit-card.html I was vaguely aware of this for the last couple of years but never translated it into what it meant for us here until I had a tax client who pays all of her subcontractors through Paypal and asked me to 1099 them and I realized we didn't have to. If... Continue Reading
Federal Income Taxes
February 11, 2015
I just had my 2014 taxes done and declared that I did mystery shopping as an Independent Contractor and lo and behold I was surprised that I had to paya federal Self Employment tax on that income. Is there anyway to do your federal taxes without having to pay that... Continue Reading
1099 from Customer Perspectives
February 09, 2015
I received the 1099 with the incorrect address for Customer Perspectives. I received an answer from them. I was told to change the N.Y. to N.H. they are located in Hooksett, N.H. Not N.Y.... Continue Reading
MF 1099 Form
February 06, 2015
Has anyone received their 1099 form from MForce? I'm more than ready to file my taxes but they are the only hold up, and to make it more interesting I stopped shopping for them in August of 2014 so I hope I don't have any problems receiving it. Thanks!... Continue Reading
Customer Perspectives 1099 FYI
February 01, 2015
Just an FYI (not sure how much it matters), Customer Perspectives has Hooksett, NY listed as their address. It is Hooksett, NH (I pass the office almost daily). I will either call or stop in on Tuesday to let them know. I seriously doubt anyone will be in the office... Continue Reading
Taxes
February 01, 2015
Has anyone received any tax forms from the mystery companies that they work with? I have few companies with which I have made the amount for which they specified a tax form will be mailed. Should I want or file my taxes? Most of the shops I have done are... Continue Reading
Within a certain mileage requirement
January 31, 2015
This is getting on my last nerve. Shops requiring that I live within a specific mile range. I'm on the cusp of being within 20 miles of anything. I certainly do not live within the 20 miles that companies want. Even if they take my zip... Continue Reading
OH NO TAXES!
January 27, 2015
Well it's here again. That wonderful time of the year where the great and powerful Tax Man comenth. So just what all do you claim? You know those great items that you get to count off on your taxes. That new printer you got? How about that new cell phone? For... Continue Reading
Health Insurance & Taxes
January 26, 2015
@Dspeakes wrote an article all about what you need to know in terms of health insurance and taxes this year. http://www.mysteryshoppermagazine.com/tax-essentials/health-insurance-its-on-your-tax-return/ It's useful info! Discuss it here.... Continue Reading
1099 and expense reimbursement
January 26, 2015
Hi all, I just got form 1099- MISC from Reality Check. They included my parking expense reimbursement as part of income which made me go over the $599 maximum in income and generated the 1099 form. This seems crazy to me, as I should not have to pay taxes on... Continue Reading
SSN vs EIN
January 21, 2015
Hi I'm new to mystery shopping and everything sounds great & rewarding so far but the only thing I'm having trouble with is giving my SSN out and worrying about the w9 tax forms. I was wondering if any of you all got an EIN for mystery shopping? I'm... Continue Reading
Taxes
January 21, 2015
Hi I'm new to this industry completely and had a (probably dumb) question. Some companies ask you to fill out your w9 form. I am not sure if I will be accepting any shops from said companies. DO I really need to fill this out? I'm... Continue Reading
IRS Free File
January 19, 2015
The IRS has a new option called FreeFile. Like the name suggests it is a free service. It uses 'partner's websites' and is available on January 20th, 2015. The IRS says more than 70% of people can use it. You may access it from the IRS... Continue Reading
2015 Mileage rate change
January 16, 2015
I looked but did not see anything, for those that manually track your mileage, the 2015 rate is now $.575 so you just got a "raise" LOL.... Continue Reading
tracking mileage
January 16, 2015
if you do several shops in a day, going from one directly to the next; can you just track your beginning and ending mileage or do you track mileage between each shop?... Continue Reading
1099's and reimbursement (mostly)
January 15, 2015
I tried searching and could not find this topic. I only shop for my favorite companies nowadays and I received a notice from Goodwin that they need my info for a 1099. Do I still claim all of the money they reimbursed me for even if it was not really... Continue Reading
2014 tax deductions to make before the year's out
December 30, 2014
This video segment was on The Today Show this morning. I was just too busy to post in the forum until now. Do what you will with it. http://www.today.com/money/2014-tax-deductions-make-years-out-1D80395109 (VIDEO)... Continue Reading
IRS Mileage Rate in 2015
December 29, 2014
The IRS mileage rate in 2015 is increasing from 56.0 cents to 57.5 cents per mile. http://www.irs.gov/uac/Newsroom/New-Standard-Mileage-Rates-Now-Available;-Business-Rate-to-Rise-in-2015 In my opinion, it may drop later in the year if gas prices stay low. It changed twice in a year as recently as 2011.... Continue Reading
Questions on taxes
December 28, 2014
This is my first year mystery shopping. My question is when filing, what does the government see as earnings? Since we receive money for a job as well as payment for, lets say a meal at the restaurant we are evaluating, will we be taxed for the entire payment or... Continue Reading
IRS documentation
December 26, 2014
Please share the format you utilize to record mystery-shop activity from start-to IRS. Do you record the initial date to include location and time? The income? The expenses incurred? The mileage, round-trip? The reimbursement? My format could use a new year's resolution! Please share your successes. Thanks... Continue Reading
Clarification needed on taxes
December 22, 2014
As the end of the year approaches, I have been researching all of the threads on the forum (as well as the IRS website) regarding taxes. I understand tracking income and reasonable business deductions with the goal to show under a $400 profit to avoid paying self employment tax. My... Continue Reading
Giving SSN to Client
December 19, 2014
I just saw that for some of the Bank shops for Maritz, they are asking for permission to give my SSN to the bank to see if I qualify to be able to the shop. They are also asking for release of any liability on Maritz's part for anything... Continue Reading
cell phone and taxes
December 18, 2014
How many of you write off your cell phone or a portion of your cell phone use for mystery shopping on your taxes? Is there a formula to follow? thanks... Continue Reading
taxes and mileage
December 10, 2014
Hi all. I am trying to figure things out. For tax purposes- I basically take my pay/fee + reimbursed money then subtract my expenses (Like if I had to purchase a meal or pizza for the required shop?) Can I also include paper and ink for my printer since I... Continue Reading
1099 questions, please
December 06, 2014
One of the MSC reimburses for the product purchased during the shop. Not all of their shops require purchases. I know they won't send you a 1099 unless you make over $600. Does the 1099 break down whether it is a fee or reimbursement? Or are reimbursements included in the total amount? I... Continue Reading
Reduce Transportation Expenses City Bus!
November 28, 2014
I was reading the threads on the net money and was surprised on the gas expense of shoppers. So I'll share how I keep mine down. I am performing shops for two days on one bus line. I pay $20 for a 7 day pass. Wednesday I was fortunate: I did... Continue Reading
Cell phone apps - Income as MS income for taxes or seperate?
November 25, 2014
I know it's a bit early for tax time. However, I started getting into the cellphone apps like Gigwalk, Rewardable and others and am wondering how mystery shoppers treat that income and expenses for taxes purposes. Do you combine it with your mystery shopping Scheduler C? It... Continue Reading
Mystery Shopper without a SSN
November 11, 2014
One of my former college coworkers is back in the states working on her Master's. She mystery shopped a bit this fall for companies that did not require a SNN to get paid unless you made more than the $600. She made sure she fell under that amount for this... Continue Reading
social security number?
October 30, 2014
Hi All- I am considering becoming a mystery shopper and one of the questions in the form was to include my SS number.... I am concerned about doing this because of scams and potential identity theft, especially after I filled out a myriad of other personal information on the same page.... Continue Reading
MSI requiring EIN?
October 23, 2014
MSI says you HAVE to have an EIN to get paid. Anyone shop with MSI and just use a SS#? I know they say it is easy to get a EIN...just curious if I really HAVE to? Do other companies have this requirement? TIA... Continue Reading
Need some info on claiming expenses.
September 10, 2014
I just started mystery shopping this week and I'm loving it. Its the perfect second job. But I have a few questions about claiming expenses. First and most important: Mileage. I read online that the reimbursement rate is .568cents/mile. Now when I factor in my mileage am I counting all... Continue Reading
Trendsource reimbursement and taxes
August 31, 2014
I'm pretty sure I read somewhere that Trendsource lumps your reimbursements with shopper fees at the end of the tax year. Is that correct? If so, how do you handle it on your taxes? Thanks!... Continue Reading
Giving SSN is one thing, but my State ID online, not comfortable.
August 28, 2014
Giving SSN is one thing, but not sure about putting my State photo ID online. I have an EIN, but unless I'm driving a vehicle, it should not be a requirement (besides, I would show that ID to the Auto Sales shop for my test drive not to the MSC,... Continue Reading
Looking for Mystery shopper companies to do bussniss with
August 24, 2014
Hi: my name is shelly saxton I am a realtor looking to do Bussniss with mystery shoppers companies Please call me or email me at ss.dreamcastle@yahoo.com Thanks Shelly's... Continue Reading
Social Security Number
August 16, 2014
I do a lot of shops with sassie companies. For some reason, my social security number does not always work...but this is only with sassie companies...and sometimes it does work. I have tried contacting the individual companies but they have been NO help at all. They make me feel stupid... Continue Reading
How much do you end up paying in taxes?
August 11, 2014
Not a specific dollar amount, but when all is said and done, what percent of your earnings to you actually end up paying taxes on after expenses? I was looking at my mileage tracker and since I live in a rural area, there are a lot of miles on... Continue Reading
Keeping Track of Mileage
August 10, 2014
So when tallying all my miles for my shop do I calculate to and from or just to? If I do one shop in a day that is ten miles from my house and I go straight home after the shop, should I record as 10 or 20 miles?... Continue Reading
Income taxes
August 09, 2014
I've done 3 whole shops and am currently scheduled for 2 more this week. They are all from different companies, which got me thinking, ... ... Will I be sent income statements from EVERY SINGLE COMPANY? OR, Am I responsible for keeping track of my aggregate income? OR, Do the companies send out income statements... Continue Reading
IRS SCAM
August 01, 2014
I was notified by my daughter who just received an attempted SCAM from the IRS. Our CPA notified all of his customers to warn all of us about this. She reported it to the police. Our CPA told us that he received several calls from his customers... Continue Reading
What "fun" stuff does mystery shopping income fund for you?
July 27, 2014
Not to be nosy, just wondering what fun stuff others use mystery shopping to pay for? My full-time job pays my bills, so I use mystery shopping for "extras." I recently bought a 60" flat screen TV and the furniture it sits on with MS money. Mystery... Continue Reading
EIN vs SSN and Tax Returns
July 23, 2014
Hi All - I have one MSC that I regularly shop for. They are one of my favorites. But they will not accept an EIN. I have recently done my first shop for TS. Although their sign up procedure says you just don't get to self-assign without an EIN, their inital quiz... Continue Reading
Applying for an EIN as an LLC
June 21, 2014
Hello, Has anyone heard of applying for an EIN as an LLC instead of a sole proprietor? Just curious. Thanks, Dan... Continue Reading
What is income?
June 13, 2014
Can anyone tell me, are (reimbursed) meals and items you buy considered income for tax purposes? Also, I do a lot of product testing (for example, I would receive Dr. Scholl's orthotics in the mail to try and have to report on what I thought of them. I get to... Continue Reading
How do I get an EIN, etc?
May 28, 2014
Well, I just saw on another thread a member suggest that another member get an EIN and not use their SSN. Can someone please give me the benefits of this and how to go about it? I am rather new and have given my SSN to date.... Continue Reading
Here's a reason I love mystery shopping as an income stream.....
May 27, 2014
I was just released from 13 days of hospitalization last Saturday and right now I am recooping from some pretty intense surgery. I need to have my life kind of free of details at the moment to heal and since I am an IC as a mystery shopper -... Continue Reading
I Know Your SSN
May 11, 2014
I printed off the paperwork for a merchandising assignment several days ago. It was for checking a line of products before Mother's Day. There were a few pages included that confused me but I decided to keep them with the others. Later, I realized that they were... Continue Reading
Taxes
March 30, 2014
My reimbursement for mileage is more than my compensation from the shops (not including reimburesment for expenses). Will I still owe taxes? Do I need to seperate my shops from my husbands he only did a few?... Continue Reading
Health Insurance Deduction
March 24, 2014
FYI...I just learned through research...you cannot deduct your health insurance premiums if you're eligable for health insurance through your spouse's employer. http://smallbusiness.chron.com/health-insurance-tax-deductible-sole-proprietors-60334.html. This counts me out.... Continue Reading
Proof of Income
March 21, 2014
Hi All-Is it OK to use invoices as poof of income?... Continue Reading
What Do You Use To File Your Taxes?
March 16, 2014
I'm interested in finding out what is used to file taxes and inputting IC data. I've been using TurboTax in the past and kind of hoped that it would be good for IC taxes. I do the taxes myself for our family and my husband works from home also. ... Continue Reading
is the full odometer reading legally required for irs tax purposes?
March 12, 2014
are full odometer readings necessary when recording mileage for business purposes? (for example: 54607 starting and 54637 ending). a friend of mine told me that he doesn't record the exact odometer reading, but that he only records how many miles that he drove that day (for example: 50 miles). but he... Continue Reading
DEDUCTION QUESTIONS FOR SCHEDULE C
March 12, 2014
I do not understand taxes for Mystery Shopping and I need HELP, please! Wages and expenses are broken out for most companies I work for, but some are not. I worked for several different companies in 2013. I am not too concerned about mileage because I used... Continue Reading
Taxes for Mystery Shopping
March 12, 2014
After receiving what I needed from the msc's and filing last week, I got my refund this morning. That was fast! :) They had no problem with my expenses. I'm a small fry in their books I guess. :)... Continue Reading
Trendsource EIN?
March 10, 2014
It doesn't seem to make a lot of sense to me that Trendsource seems to REQUIRE an EIN in order to shop for them. Am I missing something?? I'm one guy, not an employer or employee. Why would I want an EIN??... Continue Reading
Filing taxes separately or jointly
March 10, 2014
Just curious how do those of you who are married file taxes? Separately or jointly? My spouse is working full time and I did not make much MSing, yet he can no longer claim me as his dependent. Not sure what to do. Any advice?... Continue Reading
Taxes - Help!
March 08, 2014
My situation is slightly different than most when it comes to taxes. I already work from home for my current job, and drive a company car and have a home office. Clearly, I cannot double dip. I'm trying to fill out my Schedule C and I feel like I'm over-complicating it.... Continue Reading
Taxes
March 08, 2014
Hi, I am a relatively new mystery shopper and I do not completely understand how we are supposed to report taxes. I mean, I understand that if you earn more than $ 600 with company X, it will send you a form to pay taxes. I also heard that if... Continue Reading
taxes (CANADIAN)
March 07, 2014
Ok so tax season has arrived in Canada (booooo!) I haven't done THAT many mystery shops. through all of the mystery shopping companies im with I have maybe reached the $200 mark (& that includes the reimbursments) So my question is ( I suck at math & just dump my... Continue Reading
Ardent 1099 Frustration
February 19, 2014
I love working for Ardent. They pay the following month. Although their reports are long, they're pretty easy to do, and the pay is relatively high. However, they always send 1099s which include the costs of the meals we are required to buy. We can only write off 50% of... Continue Reading
Mileage Tracking/Accounting...still scratching my head...Need help please :-)
February 19, 2014
First, thank you all for the wonderful tips and strategies posted on this forum! They are precious nuggets that have helped me become more organized and able to track income and expenses for tax purposes. I am sincerely grateful :-) That being said, I am still struggling with... Continue Reading
Groceries and taxes?
February 18, 2014
How are you guys counting groceries on your taxes? I'm not sure how to do it. For example, multiple grocery shops I do have a flat fee, no reimbursement, but a required purchase. Can I count the entire thing as an expense (up to the fee) or just the cheapest... Continue Reading
Time to file taxes
February 15, 2014
With some changes from different companies, I am worried that I will under-report my earnings. As I understand it, we only file for income of $600 or more from any given company. Yet, some companies, i.e. Tallgrass (Sunflower) is taking taxes out of my earnings every job. They did not send... Continue Reading
Giving Social Security # to Market Force?
February 11, 2014
I was looking to sign up at the website MarketForce, during the application it required a SS# should I give it or is this a scam?... Continue Reading
1099 Question
February 10, 2014
Does anyone know if the 1099 $600 threshold covers amounts earned in a given year or is it for amounts actually paid? I performed shops in 2013 where commissions exceeded $600, but the payments I received in 2013 were less than $600. The rest of the payments... Continue Reading
Taxes reimbursement
February 09, 2014
Just a quickie. Is reimbursement still considered your income when filling taxes? Or just commission? Do I need to report both? Thanks!... Continue Reading
Will having an EIN change tax prep?
February 06, 2014
I signed up for a MSC that requires an EIN and registered online to get my number. I have already done a couple jobs for them. Now I have seen a few posts from people that prefer not to have a EIN. Does having one change how... Continue Reading
The 1099's are coming! The 1099's are coming!
February 01, 2014
I know that we shouldn't need them if we've been keeping meticulous track of payments, but that 1099 lends assurance to the accuracy of my figures, lets me know that what they're reporting to the gov't is also what I'm reporting, and if there's a difference it affords a final... Continue Reading
Using a fake Social Security number?
January 31, 2014
There's a shop that says you will use a 'provided' social security number. That seemed fine, until I realized that I'll have to use my real name. So, is that going to create anything weird in my records, since my name will now be floating around with two social security... Continue Reading
1099 for $15??
January 28, 2014
I did one assignment for this company and chose not to work for them anymore. I made $15 and just received a 1099 for it!? I definitely wasn't expecting that, since it's way below $600.... Continue Reading
Business Cards, Income Tax Codes, and More
January 27, 2014
Hi, Obviously, this is my first go around at tax time. So, what are the various tax codes that you use? 2) Do you have a title? Obviously I am not a housewife. 3) Do you have business cards? The MSPA site, I think, said that they recommended business cards. So, do... Continue Reading
Income Tax Shop
January 27, 2014
Someone stated that the Income Tax Shop is known by the tax preparer? I thought it said something else when I read it and passed it over? How is that known? Is the company being shopped at the time also? Why is that considered a hit on the persons... Continue Reading
1099 Issued Because Of Expenses Reimbursements!
January 25, 2014
I relied on the advice given on the "Taxes and Mystery Shopping" thread by Flash that said only shop fees, and not reimbursements, were taxable. Because of this I got a 1099 from a MS company because $70 of expenses put my income $18 over the $599 limit. I did... Continue Reading
Taxes and home office
January 17, 2014
Did everyone see that the tax option is available this year that you can claim a flat $5 a square foot for a home office, up to 300 square feet. That simplifies things, and you can take the simple deductions one year and the regular deduction a different year... Continue Reading
1099 Change for 2013
January 15, 2014
You are receiving this message because you were an active shopper in 2013. We are reaching out to you to inform you of 1099 requirements based on the changes to the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) Section 6050W. I received the message below from one of the MSCs I work with and... Continue Reading
1099's, PayPal and the IRS
January 15, 2014
I was on a MSC website today and they had a link about a new 1099 IRS rule concerning PayPal. I clicked on the link, went to PayPal were they had the information. So, you can sign in and put 1099 in the search area of PayPal and get the... Continue Reading
Denied Shop Report and Taxes
January 05, 2014
This situation hasn't arisen yet, but I thought I would ask just in case. If a shop report is denied and I am not granted payment, can I claim the cost of that shop (travel and expenses) on my taxes as a business expense?... Continue Reading
Weird question about keeping track of expenses
January 05, 2014
I know I should keep track of all expenses incurred while shopping, but should I keep track of gambling expenses while doing casino shops?... Continue Reading
Here's a twist on writing off mileage.....
January 05, 2014
I'm wondering, as I have started taking the bus to shops - I have cut the distance in which I am willing to travel to shops a bit as I have other projects going too now - and I buy a monthly bus pass to get to shops which in... Continue Reading
Question about mileage
January 03, 2014
I am really trying to 1-do more mystery shops this year and 2-stay organized as I do it! I currently do home services as my full time job. I provide services in several towns around me. If I do a shop between 2 of my sessions for my full time... Continue Reading
Mileage logs: How detailed to they have to be? Specifically for IRS purposes?
December 24, 2013
Mileage logs: How detailed do they have to be? Specifically for IRS purposes? For example: If I make 10-20 stops on a route (let's say about 50-100 miles of driving), can I log the mileage at just the first and last stops, or am I required to log the mileage at... Continue Reading
Shopper Income vs "Normal" Income
December 21, 2013
The $50k thread had me thinking today while I was driving. In relation to $$ left over after taxes and expenses and quality of life, how do you think Shopping income stacks up against "normal" income? I'm mostly talking about people who shop full time compared to someone... Continue Reading
Does anyone here actually have an income over $50,000?
December 19, 2013
Got a shop offer and that was a requirement...odd.... Continue Reading
How to determine mileage when riding subway
December 15, 2013
So, I'm keeping track of my mileage for shops. However, I am planning to take the subway system for some of the shops near me. How do I account for my mileage in this case? Is it just keeping track of the miles covered, like I would if I were... Continue Reading
taxes and health insurance
December 08, 2013
I read this on the taxes link above: Of course the reason that I shop, if you pay your own health insurance, it can be deducted against your business to the extent that your business is profitable. Thus, if my health insurance costs me $3100 per year, the first $3100 of... Continue Reading
New IRS "simple" method for deducting a home office
December 05, 2013
According to the current issue of the Costco Connection (their member magazine), the IRS has a new way to do an at home office deduction that does not incur depreciation when you sell your home. I am not sure if non members can access the magazine online through Costco.com... Continue Reading
profit and taxes
December 02, 2013
Hello, I have read through the tax information in the new shopper area. It makes sense, and I understand the schedule C that has to be filled out. I have income (what I was paid, not including reimbursements), deductions (for me, seems just straight mileage, and perhaps a copy... Continue Reading
Opinion on mileage/hourly drivetime changes
October 26, 2013
I received an email last night from a company that is about to become a former company I worked for. They have cut the drive time wage by 30%, and now only pay between stores. Effective immediately. The current assignment I am about to send back was only accepted because... Continue Reading
taxes
October 21, 2013
Oh dear, I was hoping that if I just ignored taxes they would just go away. But I started to read the forum on taxes. From the sticky from flash: There are shops to be done at Costco that require a Costco membership. When my membership is up for renewal, I... Continue Reading
Giving social security number online
October 17, 2013
Hello, I have been asked by several companies to give my social security number online. I hesitate because it is online and I do not know the company. Is this legitimate? Have any of you done this? There is a post saying Sassie cannot register you anymore if you don't give... Continue Reading
Employer Identification Number
October 17, 2013
One of the companies wants shoppers that do the Medicare shops to have an EIN. Should I just skip the shops with this company? Not sure how much work is involved but I'm doing this to make a little money and not a full time or even part... Continue Reading
Does Anyone Know What's Up With The IRS?
October 09, 2013
I received an e-mail regarding an industry teleconference. I probably won't be able to attend since I have a fine dining shop during the same time period. Three topics of conversation are listed below. Does anyone have any insight as to what is going on with the... Continue Reading
deactivation/social security
October 08, 2013
Today I was trying to get a copy of my credit report and I was thinking about it and I realized that my social security number is plastered at 40 different mystery shopping company websites. I am thinking of bailing on mystery shopping because of various reasons. (Mainly b/c I... Continue Reading
Leasing a vehicle for better tax deductions?
September 25, 2013
I read an article that said if you are self employed there is an advantage to leasing over buying a vehicle because more is deductible on schedule C. Would any of you care to weigh in on this statement?... Continue Reading
mileage questions
September 19, 2013
Ok, I have a question for you more experience shoppers. When tracking mileage, do you just track out of town or all, even if you only live a couple miles from where your assignment is. hmross... Continue Reading
Extra Income, not Registered Business
August 29, 2013
I don't see this topic addressed anywhere: I don't want to register a "business" for mystery shopping because that would mean paying scads of local and state fees. I just want to report my 1099 as extra income. Can I still claim my travel and office supplies as... Continue Reading
Deductions
August 29, 2013
Thanks to this forum, I no longer get invested in the ratings I receive as long as my overall average enables me to continue to self-assign. Also, from information gleaned here, I feel pretty comfortable understanding that rejected shops, generally, result from not following the specific guidelines. If you're not at... Continue Reading
They are offering a hotel shops...$600 expenses, shopper pay $0???? Really?
August 25, 2013
That means that I have to put up to $600, wait to get reimbursed, take the risk that my shop could be rejected and I would be in the hole for the expenses...and I don't make any money on top of that? Do some Mystery Shopping companies really think people... Continue Reading
Deductions for "Grammar & Spelling"
August 23, 2013
I recently posted in a lively discussion about scores from the editors at Intelli-shop. In that discussion I admitted that I always get scores of 8 with deductions for grammar. I used to get the same score for deductions of grammar & spelling. Then I downloaded a... Continue Reading
Reimbursable Expenses = Income or Not
August 15, 2013
Do I have to count reimbursable expenses as income on my taxes?... Continue Reading
Why do companies need EIN?
August 13, 2013
I have a SSN. I thought just having that would be okay. I am being asked to apply for an EIN. I don't know what that is. I've only lived in Ameria for a few years and have never worked. I am retired. (except for mystery shopping)... Continue Reading
Setting aside money for taxes
August 11, 2013
Hello, I am very new to this. I understand that there is a certain of taxes taken for like medicare, state, social security, and whatever else. Would it be helpful to set aside some of the money that is made from each assignment instead of spending it all at... Continue Reading
Mileage/Tax question
August 05, 2013
Wondering if any veteran shoppers can help me with this one? We are at the beach on vacation about 200 miles from home. Of course, I couldn't help myself and picked up a handful of shops while here that will help offset the cost of the trip :) So the question is... Continue Reading
So do we HAVE to have an EIN for Trendsource?
July 15, 2013
Is it a requirement or simply encouraged? I used to do their grocery stores years ago until they started requiring the EIN. I thought I had read somewhere on the forum that it's not required. I signed up for a shop for this Thursday. If I... Continue Reading
Validating SSN - CORI
July 11, 2013
I signed up with CORI a few days ago (Monday, I think) and was accepted as a shopper/auditor, but it says that I cannot complete or sign up for any shops until they've validated my SSN... Does anyone have an idea of how long this usually takes? I'm anxious to... Continue Reading
Expenses
June 30, 2013
I am trying to figure my taxes out. Fore example, if I am being reimbursed up to 4.75 for alcohol compliance shop and I buy a bottle of alchohol that is over 4.75 can I claim the full amount. Of course, there was alchohol that was under 4.75.... Continue Reading
Unsure how to express this in an nonoffensive way so please forgive my gracelessness.
June 29, 2013
This is sort of off topic and I'm not sure where to post this kind of (potentially insensitive) question. So yea...I hope my wording doesn't come across as disrespectful. Apparently, the shop I conducted was in an area where I stood out (which I didn't know before I visited the area). It... Continue Reading
Ball Park Figure for MS Income
June 27, 2013
I realize this is a tough question but can you give a ballpark idea of reasonable income expectation based on, lets say, 30 - 40 hrs/wk worked in a metropolitan area (Detroit) after two or so months of experience? Thanks... Continue Reading
TAXES
June 13, 2013
Does anyone know what taxes are based on. The total of the shop (including the cost of the food) or just the fee paid by the shop to do the shopping??????... Continue Reading
grocery store shops and taxes
June 01, 2013
I started shopping in 2012 and am now JUST I am sloghing (sp) through my 2012 taxes. I shop several different grocery chains for as many different mscs. They all pay differnetly. #1 msc - grocery store requires a small nonreimbursed purchase and pays with a whooping $60.00 gift... Continue Reading
Social Security Hell (Wish they would consider mystery shoppers!)
May 11, 2013
This is my month of experiencing government hell firsthand as a citizen of the United States. Bad enough I already have had to endure the Georgia Department of Motor Vehicles and the Rabun County Tag Office but these past three days I have spent a total of 5 ½... Continue Reading
Canadian taxes
April 25, 2013
Hi, I have looked though the forum and have found tons of info on US taxes, but almost none for Canada. Anyone have any info on Canadian taxes. Do you have to worry about companies where your fees (minus reimbursement) do not exceed $600? Do you have to keep... Continue Reading
1099 Misc. Form
April 18, 2013
I filed my taxes last month but got a letter from the IRS I needed to submit W2 and 1099 misc. forms. I noted the IRS does not allow 1099 form to be printed for some reason? I also noted I am required to submit the tax #... Continue Reading
Reimbursements only and taxes...
April 18, 2013
IF you do a reimbursement shop only (ex-caliber grocery stores).....do you have to claim that $14 as income?... Continue Reading
Background Check, EIN & W-9 Requirement?
April 17, 2013
Would anyone care to give opinions, feedback, on the idea of companies requiring shoppers to obtain an EIN from the IRS, and to pay for Background Checks? I've been performing shops for approx. 20 clients, for years, and I've not quite decided if I want to sign up with new companies... Continue Reading
Can I use this as a Tax Deduction ?
April 09, 2013
We have all discussed mileage and keeping logs of our shops. If I leave town because of a shop and need to leave my four legged baby with a sitter or kennel can I write that off as an expense? No, laughing at me.... Continue Reading
Mileage Nightmare
April 07, 2013
I will try to explain this as easy as I can. I have been working on my taxes this weekend. I work a full-time job that as of June 1, 2012 cancelled usage of the company fleet card for gas. I work out in the field on... Continue Reading
Mileage / Tax question
April 03, 2013
I work a 9 to 5 job Monday through Friday (i.e. main job). If I am picking up a shop after work, do I claim miles from my main job to the shop site? Also, If I am doing a 'route' on Saturday/Sunday do I have to exclude my mileage to the... Continue Reading
Just Finished My Taxes For 2012
March 19, 2013
Mileage: same Overall expenses: same Pay: down by 25% due to lowered shopper fees According to my calculations, this will place my business to the minus for that year for the first time since 2009. Anyone else experiencing this?... Continue Reading
Taxes (Canada) Reimbursements as Income?
March 17, 2013
Hello Looking for fellow Canadians or others that can guide me. My first full year of Mystery Shopping and learning a lot about receipts I should have kept. Anyway, is it better to claim reimbursements as income then the shop as an expense? Or Not to claim the reimbursement. I got... Continue Reading
Microsoft Streets & Trips Understates Mileage
March 13, 2013
I just got home from an overnight shopping route. I used Streets & Trips to plan the route and it calculated 379.7 miles. I reset the trip odometer when I left home and the actual mileage was 458.9. Granted there was a dinner shop and the hotel which I did... Continue Reading
asking for mileage costs
March 13, 2013
I've been doing Mystery Shopping for a little while now, but this is the first instance I've come across where I might have the opportunity to ask for additional reimbursement - I've been asked to do a series of shops that's not exactly in my "neck of the woods."... Continue Reading
Social Security Number
February 28, 2013
I am just starting to apply for Mystery Shopping companies. I'm still somewhat apprehensive of the validity of the sites not knowing which ones may be scams. Some are asking for my social security number upfront during the application. That makes me nervous. What are your... Continue Reading
Unjust report point deductions
February 25, 2013
I have been shopping for about a year now and I take pride in earning 10's on reports. Well yesterday I got an e-mail saying I did not include the year of the car I drove to the dealership for my auto shop I did a week ago. ... Continue Reading
Does anyone still shop Trendsouce without the EIN?
February 12, 2013
I'm just wandering. After they got rid of my grocery spot, I don't take the shops. I didn't get the EIN either.... Continue Reading
Did any one get a 1099 from Shoppers' Critique
February 08, 2013
Did anyone get a 1099 form from Shoppers' Critique? I was told I should get it from PayPal but I do not think that is a true statement. I made more than $600.00 and I thought they should be sending me one. Thanks... Continue Reading
Do I Need to Report My Income?
February 03, 2013
Hey all! I'm (very) new here. I signed up for ACL and am looking forward to doing some mystery shopping. I am NOT looking to do it full time. Perhaps a couple a month. I have an income under $20,000 a year and am a college student. So, my question... Continue Reading
Heads-Up on 1099s from Ritter Associates
February 01, 2013
In an email today: "You are being notified today that FORM 1099-MISC distributed to you by RitterAssociates that you have received, or will receive, is incorrect. A revised FORM 1099-MISC is being prepared and will be distributed via postal mail as soon as possible. The revised FORM 1099-MISC... Continue Reading
Question about the 1099
January 29, 2013
I have a question about the 1099. Does the $600.00 that initiates the form include the reimbursement amounts in that total? Thanks, Renee East Hartford, CT... Continue Reading
TAXES - is this a large net loss?
January 28, 2013
ok, 2011 was my first year mystery shopping and it was only part of the year. i filed a schedule c and ended up with a small net profit (under $400). but, for 2012, it is looking like i am going to have a pretty large net loss.... Continue Reading
URGENT! hELP!! MSC EIN
January 26, 2013
This post is similar to a previous post, but not exactly so keep reading. Techman answered the other question for me. Here's my situation: My car has died and needs expensive repairs. I can't work without car. If I can't work, I can't fix the... Continue Reading
1099 includes reimbursements? huh?
January 25, 2013
I received a 1099 from a company that I didn't think would send me one. I did 15 shops last year at $5 each. However, these were dining shops so the reimbursements ranged from $35 to $50 with most being $50. Is it correct that they are... Continue Reading
Gift Cards and Taxes.....Question.....
January 25, 2013
If you do a Merchantile Shop and they pay you "Gift Card Only" and in that, you purchased your dinner, how does that wash, in the tax dept? Dinner $14.00 (you paid) Gift Card Reimbursement $40 Gift Card (they give you $40 GC for dinner, no matter how much you spend). So, is... Continue Reading
MSP EIN numbers
January 22, 2013
Has anyone compiled a list, or is there a site to go to or something, where a list of EIN numbers for all the MSPs are in one place. I'm working on my taxes and reporting income from MSPs who are not required to send me a 1099. ... Continue Reading
Income Tax Return Shops
January 21, 2013
Does anyone know of any income tax return shops?... Continue Reading
1099s including reimbursements? Please tell us!
January 20, 2013
This was started so that we can alert one another to the MSCs that are issuing 1099s that include reimbursements as income. As of now, it looks like ACE has done this. Please report any that you find.... Continue Reading
what are legally acceptable mileage records for taxes?
January 19, 2013
what are legally acceptable mileage records for taxes? - i put a lot of miles on my vehicle with mystery shopping, often 100 miles on a day's route. this means that i want to deduct a large sum of money for the year at 55 cents per mile ($50 per trip... Continue Reading
A certain mystery shopping company and messed up 1099's
January 18, 2013
In March of 2012, a certain mystery shopping company mistakenly paid most of their shoppers twice for their February shops. When they noticed the error, they asked that we send the money back via payquicker, which I did. They then took the money from my payquicker account... Continue Reading
Social Security Disability Ruleas
January 14, 2013
I started out on SSDI when I was 59. I am now 63 and I want to know if I am still considered under SSDI or regular Social Security and what are the rules for working while on SSDI or SS...anybody know?... Continue Reading
Curious about IRS and payment received.
January 08, 2013
I received a check on New Year's Eve in the mail, but it didn't get into the bank until Jan. 2. For purposes of my taxes, was it receive in tax year 2012 even though there's no record of it being deposited until 2013?... Continue Reading
MS & IRS...HELP
December 28, 2012
I am a current mystery shopper and just realized through research that I am suppossed to be paying taxes on my earnings. I was under the impression that as long as I made $600 or less from each MS company that I worked for then I was okay. Can someone... Continue Reading
2012 taxes
December 28, 2012
I stopped working at my job this Jan. I was on disability for six weeks before retiring in April. I started mystery shopping and merchandising in May. I earned less than $600 working for several different companies. Do I just include the income I earned on my assignments as additional... Continue Reading
Mileage Tax Write-off increase in 2013
November 30, 2012
Just got an e-mail from my Lawyer that said that the IRS mileage rate is going up to 56 1/2 cents a mile. Whooo!... Continue Reading
One hundred pairs of shoes???
November 24, 2012
Please let me know if the subject line is against the rules. I just saw a posting for this at a MSC and I'm wondering if it is as difficult as it sounds? It's really close to my house and the pay is decent but it seems complicated. Any tips would... Continue Reading
determining mileage?....
November 12, 2012
I have a question that I cannot find an answer for in other threads. I have never used an actual mileage deduction before, but need to with MSing...With DHs business, we just do a percentage of personal/business. Figuring out MS mileage at home is easy, but if we go on... Continue Reading
Can I claim car and mileage on taxes?
November 01, 2012
I have a question.... How do I claim the car that I just purchased and the mileage from the old car that I traded in, on my taxes. Yes, I do have a "regular job", but I do a lot of traveling for my Mystery shopping. Because of that, I... Continue Reading
Tax Deductions
October 14, 2012
Before returning to mystery shopping as more or less a full-time occupation, I MSed just for Market Force back around 2003-2005. At that point I didn't even take any deductions. It was simply for some running around money. Now I will take every deduction available. I figure if multi-millionaires can... Continue Reading
HINTS ON TAXES
October 14, 2012
Yes it is true you don't HAVE to have an EIN, but it is advisable to have one so you are not giving your SSN out to everyone. I was referring to things that help support the idea that you are a business, and a business bank account is... Continue Reading
Mileage question
October 02, 2012
I'm still relatively new to mystery shopping (I started in March), but I can't get my head around the mileage question. I know we can claim 55.5 cents per mile on our taxes for business miles driven. What I can't figure out yet is how that translates to real life. What I'm... Continue Reading
using fake ssn?
September 19, 2012
i've been doing shops for about a year now and i like it a lot. recently i got an assignment for a college admissions shop, but they want me to use a fake ssn if i talk to someone from financial aid. has anyone does this before? the msc has... Continue Reading
WC Taxes withheld?
September 18, 2012
I have never had a company deduct Worker's Comp Taxes from a check...........until now! Any one have any experience with this?... Continue Reading
Social security #s?
September 12, 2012
Why do they need them? Especially when you register....... Continue Reading
IRS mileage allowance
September 10, 2012
Does anyone have any info on the 2012 IRS gas mileage allowance?... Continue Reading
Employer Identification Number - Is this REQUIRED?
September 10, 2012
Hello All, I'm looking for a bit of advice from the seasoned shoppers on this forum. I've completed numerous shopper applications where the choice was always given between either entering an Employer Identification Number (EIN) or a Social Security Number and as such I've also entered the latter. However,... Continue Reading
Can this be an actual income or strictly extra money?
August 12, 2012
Hi, I am very new to this and was wondering if it is possible to make a living at it or if it is just good as extra income. I like to set realistic expectations so I don't want to go in expecting to make a ton of money... Continue Reading
IRS and Receipts
July 30, 2012
Does anyone know off the top of their head if the IRS would be OK with electronic receipts as proof of reimbursement for shops? I can keep hard copies of my receipts for six months, a year (depending on the MSC), but if I have an electronic copy, it seems to... Continue Reading
TrendSource EIN
July 29, 2012
Help! I did one job for TrendSource and thought my social security was the EIN. Apparently not. I am scheduled for two jobs this week, but there is no way I am applying for this number. Am I out of luck?... Continue Reading
What are some good apps for iPad tracking income expenses and mileage
July 19, 2012
Hi I would love a calendar option that had a job income tracking option so I can keep track of what I'm spending out and what I should be getting back in names of the companies that owe me money... Continue Reading
Need tools to organize my income and expenses
July 19, 2012
Hi I'm new to this post I need some help tracking my income and expenses and managing my mileage and so forth can anybody help me so I can get a true bottom line of what I'm making. I use my iPad so if there's a great app for this... Continue Reading
MS Income for big purchase?
July 12, 2012
Have you used your Mystery Shopping as part of your income on an app for a big purchase? If so, how did you list it? How do they verify your income? I've got 9 months history of PayPal and bank deposits I could print out, is that enough? BTW, I probably should... Continue Reading
Validating Social Security Numbers
July 09, 2012
I've signed up with a few new companies more than a week ago, and their websites show that my SSN is still pending. Approximately, how long does it take for one's SSN to clear a system? One site won't let me shop at all, and another won't pay me... Continue Reading
Any companies that DON'T require a social security # upfront?
July 03, 2012
I know there have been a lot of discussions on this, but I am not comfortable giving my SSN out during the application process - especially when I may never even do a shop for that company. Are there any companies that don't require SSN upfront? Or that... Continue Reading
Mileage Charges
June 28, 2012
I tried a search and maybe I did not use the correct words. How do you calculate what you ask for mileage when trying to negotiate fees for a shop?... Continue Reading
do mystery shopping companies report shopper payments to the IRS?
June 26, 2012
last april, i requested a tax extension, so that my 2011 tax forms aren't due now until november 2012. i just want to make sure that i'm filing everything correctly. so anyway, i was sent a 1099 from one mystery shopping company (research services group) that shows an amount paid... Continue Reading
My New Policy Is to Charge IRS Mileage Rate
May 15, 2012
I have been shopping for almost two years and, even in that short time, I've seen a lot of changes; primarily, fees going down, delays in reimbursement, and certification requirements. In addition to mystery shopping, I do a lot of business verification and photo verifications for several companies. In the past,... Continue Reading
Trendsource responds: here is why an EIN is necessary and will be with all msc's soon
May 03, 2012
As I suspected, it has to do with the gov't and coming state and federal regulations and them going the length to make sure they can't classify IC's and employees. Here is what they say(The part of Congress trying repeal section 530 of a law in effect since 1978 is... Continue Reading
Trendsource ein enforcement
May 02, 2012
Ok the EIN deadline has now come and gone. still get the same job offers. Anyone hear anything.... Continue Reading
ssn
April 18, 2012
How do you know who will have access to your ssn if you do not know anything about the company or even if they are veted and bonded????... Continue Reading
Milage Tax Deduction. IT IS LONG GONE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
April 15, 2012
I just had my taxes done and the big milage deduction is gone. The mystery shops know it too. And ask me if they told us about it. The tax code was changed two years ago. If you leave you home and drive to a mystery... Continue Reading
Giving companies my SSN
April 15, 2012
Should I sign up with companies that require my SSN when I have an EIN (Employer Identification Number)? I am extremely concerned about entering my SSN online or giving to companies that I am not sure of.... Continue Reading
maximizing income from mystery shopping
April 07, 2012
i am new to this world. can someone tell me how to maximize one's earnings from mystery shopping? i am on about 20 job boards but i do not know if that is enough. i seem to only be getting shops that pay 10 to 50 dollars... Continue Reading
Speaking of Taxes...
March 31, 2012
I keep a detailed spreadsheet for each month of shops that I have done. It lists the following info in columns across the top: JOB ID SITE ID DEBRIEF CODE (One MSC uses hexadecimal codes to debrief all shops) TYPE DUE DATE DATE DONE TOTAL COST TOTAL PAID TAXABLE AMT INVOICE DATE INVOICE NBR - PAYPAL DATE PAID BUSINESS NAME STREET ADDRESS CITY ST ZIP BUSINESS PHONE MILEAGE EXPENSES MSC Then... Continue Reading
Income tax credit
March 23, 2012
In completing the 1099 section, I must select a Business/Activity type and Business Activity Code. I don't know what to choose and am not sure where MS and BV fit it. Any suggestions?... Continue Reading
SO so fed up with MSC's outdated SSN validation systems!
March 21, 2012
Rant. I am soo so annoyed right now. I'm from Canada, married an American, did all the paperwork etc and got a legitimate SSN last summer. At the time Social Security told me that they had just started issuing SSNs starting with an 8, previously any SSN starting with... Continue Reading
How much does IRS allow for mileage please? anyone?
March 20, 2012
I just did 77 miles yesterday for 2 $15.00 shops, and paid $3.90 per gallon of gas. I'm wondering if anyone knows how much IRS allows per mile? Thanks in advance. S.... Continue Reading
Tracking Expenses and Mileage
March 05, 2012
Thanks for the useful information. Although I've been doing this for many years, last year was the first year I've ever made a significant income from mystery shopping. I did not track mileage throughout the year because I didn't plan to do as much shopping as I did.... Continue Reading
Earned Income Tax Credit
February 25, 2012
Does anyone know if Connecticut had an Earned Income Tax Credit in place for 2010?... Continue Reading
Taxes: What do you put down under the category for freelance business.
February 24, 2012
I am trying to do my tasks. One of the question is to categorize my business I do work for my self. IS there a specific task code for mystery shop. I just chose the general code 99999. Thanks.... Continue Reading
CORI Corrected 1099
February 22, 2012
Has anyone received it yet? The email that I received said that everyone would be receiving a corrected 1099. I'm sure it's coming in the next couple of days....just wondering if anyone else had received one yet.... Continue Reading
SSN / EIN
February 14, 2012
First company I am trying to sign on with is CRI. They won't accept EIN staing that "Our system does not allow the use of EIN. Company policy mandated the Social Security Number. Thank you." Company answer seemed vague. I don't want to use SSN due to past fraud matters... Continue Reading
Reporting unreimbursed expenses
February 11, 2012
I find that an Excel spreadsheet can keep track of my schedule, the fee, bonus (if any), unreimbursed expenses, reimbursements, payment date, payment amount, dates performed location, company, mileage, etc. You can add a page to the workbook to keep track of other expenses such as office supplies and... Continue Reading
Question re: Taxes - Gift Cards
February 06, 2012
Hi Everyone Sorry if this has already been addressed...if so, I wasn't able to find info. For companies that pay you with a gift card (for example the Cheesecake Factory shops)...how do you register these payments when doing your taxes? Is the gift card considered cash income? For these shops, they require you to... Continue Reading
1099s and reimbursements
February 03, 2012
I just received a 1099 from one of the companies I worked with in 2011 and notice they included reimbursements as taxable compensation in my gross wages. The reimbursements were for parking (the assignments mystery shops for a parking company), and more often than not, the parking fee was... Continue Reading
1099 forms
January 30, 2012
Does anyone know the law in California on when the companies have to send the 1099? I thought it had to be in the contractors hand no later the Jan 31st. When I contacted the specific company asking when I should be receiving it they responded they do not know... Continue Reading
CORI 1099
January 29, 2012
When does CORI send out their 1099 tax forms? 2011 was my first year working for them and I haven't received a 1099 yet. I am sure I made more than $600 in 2011.... Continue Reading
Mystery Shopper and Taxes
January 13, 2012
As a Mystery Shopper, we are required to report taxes, but it will be as "self employed". Anyone knows what can we deduct as expenses? I know miles for sure, but what about meals and other things?... Continue Reading
How do you supplement your income as Mystery Shopper?
January 06, 2012
I was just curious to know how do you supplement your income as a Mystery Shopper? In my case, in additional to being a mystery shopper, I also do Merchandising work . . . while I try to find a regular full-time job in our very poor economy. Last year,... Continue Reading
Income Source In Addition to Mystery Shopping
November 12, 2011
I am looking for some input and advice. Mystery shopping has been the main source of my income for the last couple of years but I need to make some changes and increase my income. I have divided up my MSC's and put the majority of them in... Continue Reading
Sinclairs X O Logic Test!
November 01, 2011
Hello has anyone taken this recently? I can't seem to pass it and I have to wait 30 days to re-take it. Hmmmm thought I did really good on it.... Continue Reading
My SSN confession and a question
October 22, 2011
So, I've been married for more than 32 years and have FINALLY changed my name on my SS card (after numerous trips to the SSA and plenty of long waits). For many years, it just didn't seem to matter. It has only been in probably the past 6 or so... Continue Reading
Claiming mileage
October 16, 2011
One big issue is transportation. It is difficult to find a lot of shops in one small area, even in a city. If you live in the country it is even more difficult. Then you have to compare the cost of running a vehicle (not just gas)... Continue Reading
What are reimbursable expenses?
October 14, 2011
Flash: I do a MapQuest map for every trip I take. Do you think that will be acceptable for proof of miles driven? I tried to keep track of the odometer but invariably forgot either when I left or when I got back so I just started keeping track... Continue Reading
Posting my Social Security Number
October 14, 2011
Has anyone had issues with identity theft? I have put my Social Security out on many different MSC sites. I am thinking about investing in identity theft protection like Lifelock. Any advice would be appreciated.... Continue Reading
kEEPING RECORDS FOR TAXES
October 12, 2011
With the price of gas fluctuating the way it is, do I have to keep track of each gasoline purchase and figure out how much was used for business and how much for personal use in order to deduct a business expense for it?... Continue Reading
Mileage Log
September 27, 2011
Do any of you guys know of a free Mileage log that would be accepted by the IRS and what information needs to be entered on the log? How do you guys handle that part of the mystery shopping business?... Continue Reading
1099-K
September 22, 2011
Upon going into my Paypal this morning there was a notice that I had to put in my SS number or Tax ID due to new IRS requirements. We sell some things on Ebay but not near the 20 grand limit. However I do get paid through several... Continue Reading
claiming mileage on trips with shops
August 23, 2011
I did a mystery shop at a golf course in another state. It was 350 miles away from my home. I stayed over at a hotel as it was too long a trip to drive back after golf. Can I claim the hotel as a mystery shop... Continue Reading
Leary about giving bank info or ssn
July 26, 2011
Hi everyone! I've just started mystery shopping again and most companies are asking for my ssn or bank info. I've always been taught to be very careful about whom I give my information to. Has anyone's information ever been compromised? Does anyone know if there are companies that don't require... Continue Reading
My income has dropped 50%
July 16, 2011
I am wondering if anyone else is suffering the decrease in offers. My favorite MSC do not offer the same jobs as before. Was it the fact I turned 67 a month ago? Economy? More shoppers? Whats your opinion? Lbarlbar in San Gabriel Valley California.... Continue Reading
Mileage
July 04, 2011
What is the best way to figure my mileage? Is there any software that will help? Thanks in advance.... Continue Reading
Income Reporting for Financial Assistance?
July 02, 2011
My husband recently lost his job and has been working day labor which has been off and on. So I've been mystery shopping a lot more than I used to. I'm getting ready to start shopping up to full time, but I am needing to get childcare for... Continue Reading
Apply for a Credit Card w/a Provided SSN!
June 21, 2011
No thanks! I suspect applying using a real name and a false id could be grounds for something later! And like the way this shop is not accessible as scheduler gave no links.... False names are one thing but when you put a false SS # that is getting... Continue Reading
Question about taxes
April 20, 2011
I know that if you make more than $400 you have to file for self-employment taxes. I was just wondering...does this include reimbursements? Say I made $480 in one year total that includes my shop fees and reimbursements with 5 different companies. But if I don't add in the reimbursements... Continue Reading
Supplied with social security number
April 18, 2011
I have a question on a job I was asked to complete. You had to apply for a credit card with a social security number they provided you with, is that even legal? I declined the shop.... Continue Reading
1099 Question
April 17, 2011
I am wondering how this is calculated for companies which offer a flat fee which includes reimbursement for all their shops. I sometimes have overage and sometimes underage so will the company calculate that or will I receive a 1099 when I reach $600 based on the total flat fees... Continue Reading
Payment/reimbursement Taxes
April 14, 2011
Quick question on this subject, which I have obviously deferred from addressing as long as I can! :-) I keep two columns for payments, one reflecting the base pay, and one to reflect a complete total, should reimbursements be involved. So, using a $20 shop with an 11.10 reimbursement as... Continue Reading
Any mystery shopper ever been audited by the IRS?
April 13, 2011
This year when I was doing my taxes, my tax guy said that to report my MS shopping I needed to have all the documentation, including guidelines, paystubs, receipts and surveys just in case I ever got audited. I did over 150 shops last year and made 2000 dollars. The... Continue Reading
Part B, Medicare and Taxes
February 19, 2011
I don't know if it is a new rule or whether I just never spotted the info, but for those paying Part B of Medicare, that expense can be deducted as a business expense to your self-employment (i.e. mystery shopping business). I haven't explored it as I am not... Continue Reading
Mileage
February 04, 2011
A 2010 study found that the average American walks about 900 miles a year. Another recent study found that Americans drink an average of 22 gallons of beer a year. That means, on average, Americans get about 41 miles per gallon. Not bad.... Continue Reading
What can you claim when Filing your Taxes?
February 02, 2011
This is the first year I will be filing my taxes without having a full time job. What can I claim as a deductable when filing? I heard from others, milegage, computer, telephone, ink, digital camera, stop watch,paper etc. What can I read or lookup and find... Continue Reading
SSN not required
January 12, 2011
These Best Buy shops just showed up where we give them a fake SSN (provided) but our real driver's license, name and address, and we claim to have bad credit. Is it just me that does not really not feel comfortable doing things like this (for $10)?... Continue Reading
Taxes
December 23, 2010
What are you supposed to do if you earned less than $600 from a company and don't get a 1099. I have my own ideas but I don't want to cross the you know who.... Continue Reading
Social Security Number
November 19, 2010
Hello Everyone, As I said before,I am brand new at mystery shopping. I have just begun to start signing up for companies and I'm not compfortable providing my SSN on line. Any experiences or suggestions on this would be greatly appreciated. six... Continue Reading
taxes again!? &^*&%!!!!
November 19, 2010
ahh... writing all those symbols has a calming effect... ok... so small buisness claims... last year i thought i had to do one...8 months of shops did it (costed me 75 bucks extra on top of everything for turbo tax... oigh) listed all i did... shops (reimbursements as well), surveys,... Continue Reading
Keeping track of expenses
November 12, 2010
Since my 1st question went so well, I'm gonna keep going (no whammy's!) How does everyone keep track of MS, expenses, profit, paid dates, etc? Spreadsheets? Templates? Quill and ink? I've started using Google Docs spreadsheet and created a basic template, but it lacks in anything detailed. Any free templates that might... Continue Reading
Social Security Numbers
October 14, 2010
Hello, I'm brand new to the idea of Mystery Shopping. I was looking into signing up with a company and found out that they wanted my social security number in order to sign. The company that I was looking into was Maritz. With all the I.D. theft going on nowadays, should... Continue Reading
Clothing as a deduction?
September 25, 2010
I was reading on another site that you can deduct uniform expenses on your taxes. Is there any way to take this deduction as a mystery shopper? Sometimes I have to do shops at high-end retailers, etc., where I'm supposed to be wearing nicer clothes. I would... Continue Reading
Canadian Income Taxes
July 28, 2010
Hi, is there anyone in the Edmonton, AB area that you can recommend to complete our tax returns? I need someone familiar with the available deductions & won't charge a fortune since I have more than one year to complete. Thanks, Charlene... Continue Reading
Discussions of Mystery Shopping Taxes
The reimbursements are not considered part of your net income. (Source). April 09, 2020
Nearly all of my MS in 2019 was reimbursed shopping, so my net income from mystery shopping in 2019 was very low. (Source). April 09, 2020
If you somehow can't get the free turbo tax version from the IRS website, you can file with credit karma. (Source). April 09, 2020
. and they will decide if they still need to have their businesses shopped. A shopper may have found other sources of income and may not be interested in starting up shopping again. (Source). April 09, 2020
For the 2015 tax year, the IRS assessed income tax of $1. (Source). April 09, 2020
. https://www.fema.gov/disasters You would be eligible for 50% of your state's unemployment benefits. PEUC doesn't benefit 1099 only workers. (Source). April 09, 2020
Anyone who wants to maintain a good relationship with any business that they 1099 for should hold off on submitting an application for now. (Source). April 09, 2020
Does such a person or business also incur significant tax deductions due to COVID-19 effects? (Source). April 09, 2020
We also specialize in the production of the French Residence ID card which is used by Diplomats to attend to international official affairs of the state. (Source). April 08, 2020
That is just for the hubby's job. My IC work adds more mileage. (Source). April 08, 2020