Ten questions to ask before joining

3 minute read · Updated 26 October 2026

Before you sign up, ask how the work and payments would operate in practice. Get current written terms as well as a verbal explanation. You can print this checklist and keep it with the answers.

1. What do I have to pay to join? Include registration, the required kit, delivery and any taxes. Check when offers end and who qualifies.
2. What other costs should I expect? Ask about renewals, subscriptions, tools, materials and any charges for pausing or leaving.
3. What do I have to do to keep my account? Check whether rules relate to customer sales, your own purchases or other activity. Bonus requirements may be different.
4. Do I need stock, samples or a kit? Find out what you’d keep at home, who pays for replacements and whether unsold items can be returned.
5. How would I work with customers? Ask for an example of an order or service introduction, from the first conversation to completion.
6. Who takes payment? If you pay the company yourself, check the deadlines, any credit checks and what happens if your customer doesn’t pay.
7. How is my payment calculated? Ask what qualifies, which rate applies, when you’re paid and what deductions are possible.
8. Who handles problems and cancellations? For products, ask about delivery and returns. For services, ask what happens if a customer cancels or switches.
9. Can I apply, and what training do I need? Check age, residence and other joining conditions, plus any training requirements.
10. How do I leave? Ask how to cancel, stop recurring fees and return eligible stock. Check whether any payments can be reclaimed.

If an answer is unclear

Ask for an example that fits the way you intend to work. “It depends” is useful only if you understand what it depends on. If a cost or requirement is still unclear, keep it on your list of questions.

Take time to consider the answers

Compare the commitments with your budget, available time and the work you want to do. You don’t need to decide during the first conversation.

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