Stay Safe and Start Earning from Paid Surveys I've worked in different areas over the years; small business owner, DOD, Forest Service - firefighter, surveyor, construction inspector, ran a gift basket business, restored and remodeled homes and worked in retail. The most important job has been "Mom". My Story

My daughter was looking for part-time work while pursuing her degree, I sent her an internet ad; college students, Moms- work from home in your spare time. The testimonials seemed valid, sign up was free, but to receive surveys there was a fee. She was asked for a SSN and credit info, for her first survey. (Red Flag) she knew not to comply.

That's when I started researching to see if legitimate reputable paid online survey companies existed. Yes, they do exist without fees of any sort, they will not ask for credit information or a SSN (unless you make over $600 a year per company, it is required for income taxes).There are lots of scams to shy away from, but trusted companies do exist!

You won't get rich overnight, but you can earn income safely. It may be a month or so to start receiving higher paying- $5 and up surveys, once you've established credibility. The first surveys you're invited to could be sweepstakes or low paying $1 - $2. If you're serious and want to earn income with paid surveys and research studies stick with it! Spend adequate time on each survey, be consistent and honest with answers and willing to take a few of the sweepstakes and $1 surveys. The higher paying surveys, product evaluations, online forums/chats and research studies will follow as you get established. Legitimate companies are always looking for fresh ideas and perspectives from product development to politics and things in between.

Below are some steps I followed to start taking Legitimate Safe Reputable Online Paid Surveys and How to Stay Safe while earning extra income online:

System Shield 3 Internet Security

First Steps-How To- Stay Safe and Get Started Taking Online Paid Surveys

WOT (Web of Trust) is an add-on for IE and/or FireFox (check other browsers for this add-on) before signing up for Free Online Paid Surveys. The security level can be set. Sites may not be green (as safe) due to content -13 or older (parental controls), reviews or not enough site information. Check before dismissing or entering a site if there is a caution. The reason will be listed.

1. The most important step is to have a reliable anti-virus program installed. Though Norton and McAfee are widely used, I've had issues with both. System Shield 3 Internet Security from iolo technologies is worth looking into. A variety of products are offered: Anti-virus System Shield, PC Performance, Drive Scrubber and more. The products are highly rated with good prices and promotions.

2. Get an additional e-mail, two if you do GPT (get paid to) programs. MSN/Google/Yahoo offer free e-mail. I keep paid surveys from personal and GPT mail. See Hubpages Part 1- Know the Difference Between Survey, Research and Get Paid To Sites.

3. Sign up for a Pay-Pal account, it's free. You can add as many e-mails as needed. Quite a few companies pay through Pay-Pal, it's quick, safe and secure, and it’s faster than a check.

4. You can never be toocareful with security, whether using the Internet or checking into a motel. We're all susceptible to identity theft. An added layer of protection never hurts. Look into a monitoring company for the added benefits and peace of mind. Life Lock the company I use has cut our junk mail down, and knowing we have some help should the unthinkable happen is reassuring.

5. Once you're ready to start taking Online Paid Surveys from reputable safe companies, sign up with as many as you have time for. Always read the privacy, terms and conditions at each site.

Most companies ask for a basic profile, when you sign up. If you don't have time for more (if ask for) come back later. The more complete your profiles, the better chance of qualifying for paid surveys. Some surveys close quickly, so answer promptly.

Important Reminder

When invited to a study or survey you agree not to share the contents, especially posting on the web-forums, blogs etc. It hurts the reputation of the research/survey firm. You could be removed from the panel, or worse- legal action. When the study is complete, the company may post or notify you of results, then you can post to your blog/tweet etc. If opportunities are available they may ask that you help get the word out. Be cautious about posting any content not approved by the company you are working with.