Originally sponsored by BestMark. All opinions are 100% mine.
Updated October 10, 2026.
BestMark is a very well-known, reputable mystery shopping company. They have been around since 1986 and are one of the largest mystery shopping companies in existence.
BestMark additionally has an A+ rating with the BBB and is a legitimate company, unlike many of the scam shopping companies that you might come across.
However, scammers have been known to pretend to be BestMark, so make sure you’re signing up through their official website.
How does mystery shopping work?
As a mystery shopper, you visit places of business — acting as a shopper — to gather information about your experiences.
BestMark might ask you to notice details such as how clean a store was or how the workers treated you.
If you’re doing a mystery shop for a restaurant, you may have to report back on various details about the food — how it looked and tasted or how long it took the waiter to bring it out after you ordered.
The instructions will vary for each shop you do.
BestMark also has some online and telephone mystery shops, so not everything requires leaving home. They additionally offer work doing customer interviews and compliance audits.
How much does mystery shopping for BestMark pay?
The payment you receive for mystery shopper jobs with BestMark will vary depending on the shop.
Some assignments offer a cash payment, some reimburse you for purchases, and others offer both.
You should receive specific details for each prior to accepting the job.
BestMark pays through PayPal, direct deposit, or gift cards. Payments for approved assignments are generally made between the 15th and 20th of the following month.
Make sure you follow the instructions carefully and submit your report on time. BestMark can reduce or withhold payment if an assignment doesn’t meet the requirements.
Who can apply to be a shopper for BestMark?
BestMark is looking for people who are at least 18 years of age with good written communication skills who are also good at paying attention to detail.
It’s additionally necessary that you have reliable internet access.
If you’re doing in-person mystery shops, you’ll need a way to get to the location, too.
How do you find out about possible shops to do?
BestMark has opportunities across the United States and in Canada, and you can log into your account once your shopper application has been approved to see what is available in your area.
You can also look for assignments in other areas if you’re traveling.
If you forget to log in and check, no worries! Depending on your account preferences, BestMark may notify you about available assignments by phone, text, or email.
Just remember that shops aren’t guaranteed to be available in every area all the time.
Is shopping for BestMark a full-time job?
No, just as it is with most types of mystery shopping work, you should view this as extra money only.
But it’s a great way to get out of the house and earn a little extra for something fun — especially if you know you’re going to be out shopping anyway.
Mystery shopping tends to be really ideal for both stay at home and working parents (who can often squeeze in shops after work or during lunch hours).
Lots of college students may also benefit from mystery shopping as well for some extra cash to help with various expenses.
BestMark shoppers work as independent contractors rather than employees, and you’re free to accept or turn down assignments. You’re also responsible for handling your own taxes.
How can you sign up for BestMark?
Sign up here to become a shopper. There is absolutely no charge to apply!
Most applications are added to BestMark’s system of eligible contractors automatically. If your application needs manual review, BestMark says that can take 5 to 10 business days.
If there aren’t any shops in your area when you apply, you may have to wait for something to become available.
Want to Know More About Mystery Shopping?
BestMark is just one company you can sign up with. And because mystery shopping assignments aren’t always available, it helps to have several companies you can get work from.
That’s why I put together my Mystery Shopping Guide.
Inside, you’ll find 50+ legitimate mystery shopping companies, including options for telephone shops, app-based assignments, and opportunities outside the US.
I also explain how mystery shopping works, what you can realistically expect to earn, what equipment you might need, and how to avoid getting scammed.
Plus, there are tips for completing assignments properly, writing good reports, and making sure you don’t miss out on your pay.
If mystery shopping sounds fun but you’re not sure where to start, this puts everything in one place for you. You can use it to find more opportunities instead of depending on just one company.
It’s only $10, and you’ll get the guide as a PDF you can keep and refer back to whenever you want.
👉 Get My Mystery Shopping Guide Here
Anna Thurman is a work at home blogger and mom of two. She has been researching and reviewing remote jobs for over 15 years. Her findings are published weekly here at Real Ways to Earn.
Just applied..ty for the lead.
Good Post Anna. Best Mark is one of my favorites. I cannot give specifics, but they pay you well for your time and they pay faster than most companies.
Thanks for your feedback, Traci. I have read they are a good company, too 🙂