There are a gazillion sites out there that promise you wealth beyond your dreams, instant riches, automated systems that earn you money with little effort on your part, and on and on they go...But we are intelligent beings, and we all know you have to work to earn money, and it takes money to make money. But that doesn't mean it takes a LOT of money! Most opportunities require either money or effort or a combination of both. And it seems the most profitable and lucrative work at home opportunities are affiliate marketing, data entry, internet stores (such as e-bay) and filling out surveys, many of which are free, or have free trials so you can decide if it's right for YOU!

If you are not sure what program is right for you, there are several sites that can help you decide simply by filling out a small survey. They take your information and list work at home opportunities that match your interests, how much time you have to spend on your work at home income, and how much income you want to earn. These are great tools for beginners and those dipping their toes into the "work from home" waters for the first time.

Most work at home opportunities are free or require a small investment. But be sure you are really careful...Be wary of the "one time offers." There are even "opportunities" that shows you how to sucker people into this strategy.

I subscribed to one of these "This is a ONE TIME opportunity, ACT NOW as you will NEVER SEE THIS PAGE AGAIN" that charged me about $50, but neglected to tell me that in order for it to work, I had to subscribe to yet a different plan that will cost me almost $54,000 per year!!! Well, being an optimist, I always say 'Live and Learn'!

But don't be frustrated, there are also sites which not only give step by step instructions on how to create and develop a profitable affiliate marketing website, but also have a forum to ask questions, learn, and make comments on the program. These programs are great, because not only do you have one-on-one help and step by step instructions, but they give you a lifelong skill you can use in other aspects of your life.

These you need to search for diligently, and make sure they tell you UP FRONT what the costs are. None can guarantee you a specific income, but they can ALL be truthful about the expense involved. The programs that offer help are the best, as they offer you a multitude of information, insight and knowledge. What can be better?

The most important thing when choosing the right opportunity is to read between the lines. Don't just look at the promises, or the income that can be earned. Look at the value of what you are signing up for. If you are learning a lifelong skill, with a lot of help from people that know, wouldn't that be worth a small investment?

Keep in mind it takes money to make money, so be sure the work at home opportunity offers you more than just promises. And remember that what is value to one, may not be value to another.

Be true to your own heart, but take your time, research if need be, but most importantly listen to that little voice inside, whether it says "GO FOR IT" or "This is too good to be true."