FAQ

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Is this job about shopping? I LOVE to shop!

Being a researcher is NOT about shopping, is NOT about looking for what is wrong, and is NOT about getting rich quick.

Our focus is collecting objective information about our clients’ businesses and the behavior of their employees.

Am I an employee of Core Research, Inc.?
No, researchers are NOT employees of Core Research, Inc. They are independent contractors and are responsible for their own tax declarations and withholding, their own insurance, their own expenses, scheduling, and completion of jobs.

They are also encouraged to work with other companies in our industry. Please consult your attorney, tax professional, and/or insurance agent with questions relating to your specific situation.

How many jobs, on average, can I complete in one week?
The average number of jobs you can complete depends on your flexibility, your schedule, the number of jobs available, and the number of other interested researchers. Most researchers currently range from one to five jobs per week.
How much can I earn per month?
We have had researchers earn from $15 per month to $150 per month or more. The amount you can earn is really up to you. Researchers who are flexible in the types of jobs they request and are willing to try new and different assignments or hard to assign shops will bring home bigger payments.

It is also important to note that researchers who consistently provide high-quality, unbiased reports with few or no errors will receive more and better jobs.

How long is the report you have to fill out after you complete the job?
The length of the form depends on the nature of the shop. Most evaluations range from 35-50 questions. Most questions are in a yes/no or multiple choice format, however, high quality and thorough comments are also important and are often required.
Can I work on the same job every week?
You can request any assignment you’re interested in. However, in most cases, a researcher will not evaluate the same location more than once a month in order to preserve their anonymity and to provide our clients with the best results possible.
What happens if none of the jobs fit into my schedule?
You are never obligated to request a job. If nothing fits into your schedule right now, something else may in the future. Once you apply for and are given a job, contact us immediately if you run into schedule conflicts.
How often do jobs change?
New clients are always signing up with Core Research, Inc., so jobs will change randomly and frequently. In addition, existing clients may occasionally change the criteria they are interested in evaluating or the scenario surrounding a job. It is recommended that you log in daily at www.coreresearchinc.com to check for current postings on available jobs.
Why do you need my Social Security Number?
Your Social Security Number is required so we have all the information necessary to file a 1099 form with the IRS and to meet the new-hire reporting requirements in some states.
I’m concerned about submitting my SSN online. Should I be?
Your privacy and the security of your information are very important to us. For that reason our site is secure for submitting your SSN.
Core Research, Inc.’s Independent Contractor Agreement mentions issuance of a 1099 if I make $600 or more. Does this amount include the reimbursement for purchase of goods or services, or just the actual fee for doing the job?
A 1099 would include the fee and any reimbursements. You should contact your tax advisor for additional information.
Will the business know my name after I turn in the report and possibly flag me if I return?
Core Research, Inc. clients are only given the name of a researcher if it is necessary to help them identify the employee who was evaluated. In this case, the researcher’s name is only given to our corporate contact and is not shared with employees of any location.

However, when employees know a Core Research, Inc. program is in place, they will try to figure out which customers are actually researchers. If they correctly identify a researcher they will share that information with their peers. This makes it extremely important that you are very discrete and careful not to do anything that may give you away.

When and how will I be paid?
Researcher payments will be made via PayPal. The email account you have on file with Core Research, Inc. should match an email account associated with your PayPal account. If you do not have a PayPal account you will be prompted to open one with your first payment. Payments are made the 15th of the month following the month the job was completed. For example, payments for June jobs will be made the 15th of July.
Do you have jobs in my area?
Core Research, Inc. operates nationwide, however, we do not always have jobs available in all areas. We encourage you to contact us before submitting your application to ensure we have opportunities in your area. Please refer to the “Contact” page for methods of contact.