I have been off and on with mystery shopping. I thought you always had to pay upfront and did not always have funds. I've done about 8 mystery shops in 2 years. That does not sound like someone who is serious about this industry but I received one of those scam checks and sort of stopped trusting companies. I of course did not cash the check. I have an EIN number. And I'm thinking of getting my sons involved. Oh just one thing. I have been ducking getting certified but I'm ready now.