Are paid surveys real?

Over the past few years I have probably fell victim to every paid survey out there. Through trial and error I have finally been able to distinguish the legit survey sites from the scams. Obviously you are not going to be able to replace a full income or get rich rich, but to answer the question, Yes, they are real. It is just a matter of knowing what companies are legit.

A legit survey site never requires any out of pocket expense! This is probably one of the biggest scams on the net.
When I first started with paid survey sites I I earned a buck here and there but after time I have been earning more. I am signed up with several companies and usually cash out about $400 every 4-6 months. So no you will not be able to replace your full time job. It is however a great way to earn extra cash and voice your opinions. Many paid surveys also lead to product tests which you are usually allowed to keep the product you are giving feedback on as well as another form of payment.
Some surveys may also lead to focus groups, or community panels. If you have ever done a search on the net for paid surveys, I am sure You have ran across ads that claim you can earn $75 or more an hours. Well , not likely. However I have done many focus groups that do pay anywhere from $25 - $150 for an hour, just don't expect them too often. I am also a member of a couple of community panels. Panels usually last a couple of months and generally consists of a forum where you share your views on certain topics. Each panel has its own reward method. Some may give free products, amazon cards, or cash rewards.

I'm constantly being asked about paid surveys, product testing and focus groups by friends and family so I thought I would take the time to compile a list of the ones that I have done the best with. The only companies I will be listing are legit , and are all companies I am familiar with.

Starting out

Before signing up and starting Paid survey sites, it is important to create a unique email address. Since many invites come directly to your email it is also important to check it as often as possible to make sure you don't miss out. I also recommend setting up a Pay Pal account if you do not have one , and make sure this email address is connected to your Pay Pal account. More and more companies are paying with pay pal which is much more convenient and faster than receiving checks. It is my preffered method of payment. Checks are nice too, :) It just usually takes longer for them to arrive.

Remember to complete your profile with each site and update regularly. The ensures that you get more invites and qualify for more surveys.

Also remember, legit sites never ask for payment or financial information. Generally they will ask for your address for payments and rewards and possibly your phone number for phone survyes (which are great, and pay well by the way!)