Taking online surveys is a quick and easy way to make money online.

Earning a living in today's economy can be a very challenging task. Unemployment is above 10%, and we are in the middle of the biggest recession since the Great Depression. Currently, I am one of the lucky ones who have a career that I love. But, that wasn't always the case. Throughout my life, I have spent plenty of time working dead-end jobs (cubicle farms) that I hated. Further, I have also spent several months being unemployed.

Several years ago, during a 3 month unemployment period, I began taking online surveys for money. I have an undergraduate degree in Marketing, so I was always aware of marketing research companies. I also knew they paid consumers quite well for taking their surveys. So, I did a bunch of research. I found some winners and several losers. I found that being paid for taking surveys is a very legitimate way of earning money. However, there are a many online scams out there. Fortunately for you, I have already done the research and earned my "battle scars" from dealing with some bad companies.

Let me make one thing very clear, before you get started. You will NOT become the next Warren Buffett by simply taking online surveys. But, you can earn extra income in a fast and easy manner. For some of you, that might mean the difference between having enough money to pay the bills and not paying the bills. In today's economy, every little bit of extra income helps. Right?

BEFORE you begin taking online surveys there are a few small things you will need to do. First, get a "spam" email service that is separate from your regular email address. Do this before signing up with any survey programs.

Next, keep records of how much income you make while you are making it. Remember, the IRS always cares about your income and it is better to have exact records than to not have any records.

Lastly, know that taking surveys online is definitely a legitimate way to earn extra income. Marketing companies really do value your opinion. The American consumer is the most powerful consumer on the planet. Your opinion is extremely valuable. If you provide your opinion, you will be compensated well for it.

However, because you are being compensated for your opinion, be honest and truthful with your answers. Fair is fair. You are being paid for your honesty, so please provide it.

If a person keeps these things in mind while taking online surveys, they should be able to earn a good amount of extra income in a fun and easy way.