Get Paid to Evaluate Stores With BestMark

Quick Stats About BestMark

• Launch Year: 1986

• User Base: Large, nationwide network

• Average Earnings: $5-$25 per assignment plus reimbursements

• Payment Methods: Check, direct deposit (varies)

• Payment Frequency: Varies, delays reported

• Minimum Age: 18 years old

• Mobile App: Web-based platform

• BBB Rating: A+

• Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5 stars)

What Is BestMark?

BestMark is one of the largest and most established mystery shopping companies in the United States, operating since 1986. The company connects mystery shoppers with retail locations, restaurants, and service providers who need customer experience evaluations.

They are also one of the largest in existence, featured everywhere from the Oprah Show to Essence Magazine. BestMark additionally has an A+ rating with the BBB.

Based in Minnesota, BestMark provides three types of assignments: mystery shopping, intercept interviews and compliance audits. The company serves as an intermediary between businesses seeking customer experience data and independent contractors who perform evaluations.

How Does BestMark Work?

Getting started with BestMark is relatively straightforward. If you're 18 years of age or older with good written communication skills and full internet access, please complete and submit our free online application form with BestMark.

There is absolutely no charge to apply, and you can usually expect to hear something back within a couple of days after you sign up. (Tip: You should be cautious of any similar service that asks for your credit card info.)

Once approved, shoppers receive assignments via email or through the company's online portal. Each assignment comes with specific instructions about what to observe, purchase, or evaluate. After completing a shop, you submit a detailed report about your experience, including receipt photos when applicable.

The process typically involves:

1. Browsing available assignments in your area

2. Accepting assignments that fit your schedule

3. Visiting the assigned location and following instructions

4. Completing the required evaluation form

5. Submitting receipts and reports for payment processing

How Much Can You Make BestMark?

BestMark's earning potential is modest but can provide supplemental income. When I checked the site in June of 2025, reimbursements for a variety of shops ranged from $5 to $25. For example, one supermarket shop in the Washington, D.C. area offered a $10 stipend, plus up to $15 to buy supermarket sushi.

Payment Structure

• Fees typically range from $5-$25 per assignment

• Reimbursements for required purchases are separate from fees

• Before you take a mystery shopping job, the reimbursement amount should be specified. Don't spend more than that amount while on the job. You won't be reimbursed for it

• Payment processing varies but can take several weeks

However, there are concerning reports about payment reliability. According to third-party review sites and job boards, working as a mystery shopper at BestMark may not be the best experience. Former and current mystery shoppers on Indeed state that there are frequent issues with payments being processed promptly.

This experience may vary from one mystery shopper to another. What really matters is that the company is legit!

BestMark Requirements & Barriers

Basic Requirements

• 18 or older; reliable transportation; internet and computer access; good communication skills

• Ability to follow detailed instructions

• Strong attention to detail for report writing

• Smartphone for photos and notes

• Valid identification and tax information

Geographic Considerations:

• Assignments are location-dependent

• Urban areas typically have more opportunities

• Must be able to travel to assigned locations

• Some assignments may require specific demographics

The application process is free and relatively simple, making it accessible to most interested applicants.

BestMark Pros & Cons

Pros:

• A+ rating with the BBB and are completely legitimate

• Long-established company with nationwide presence

• They offer a wide variety of shops, make reporting easy and are quick to respond to any questions I've had on shops

• No upfront costs or training fees

• Flexible scheduling - work when you want

• Get reimbursed for purchases plus receive payment

Cons:

• Payment delays and processing issues reported by multiple users

• Low pay rates relative to time investment

• Limited assignments in some areas

• Detailed reporting requirements can be time-consuming

Is BestMark User Friendly?

The user experience with BestMark appears to be mixed, with significant concerns about reliability. While the company has a professional appearance and legitimate business operations, employee satisfaction is notably low.

I've attempted to call, but it goes straight to a voicemail box telling you that email is better, suggesting customer service challenges. However, some users report positive experiences with assignment variety and support responsiveness.

The company's website and application process are straightforward, but the overall work experience seems to vary significantly among shoppers.

Who Is BestMark Best For?

Bestmark is ideal for:

• People seeking very flexible, occasional income

• Those who enjoy detailed observation and reporting

• Shoppers comfortable with modest compensation

• Individuals with reliable transportation and free time

• People who don't mind payment delays

You should avoid if:

• You need reliable, timely payments

• You're looking for substantial income

• You prefer more responsive customer service

• You're easily frustrated by administrative processes

• You need consistent work availability

My Honest BestMark Review

There’s no doubts that BestMark offers genuine opportunities for supplemental income. However, while it's a legitimate long-established company, the significant concerns about payment reliability and low employee satisfaction ratings might be concerning to newcomers.

Even though BestMark is a legitimate BBB Accredited company that offers real mystery shopping opportunities, the reported issues with payment delays make it difficult to recommend as a “primary” choice for mystery shopping work. Consider it only if you're willing to accept the risks and don't depend on timely payments.

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