FAQs

 

MEMBERSHIP BASICS AND BENEFITS

 

What is MSPA Americas?

MSPA Americas is the official not-for-profit international trade association for companies and individuals who complete assignments and projects in mystery shopping, merchandising and other retail projects within North, Central and South America. The association was the first in the world for this industry, beginning in 1998, and works worldwide with its partners MSPA Europe/Africa and MSPA Asia/Pacific, and collaborates with all chapters through the MSPA Global Board.

 

Can I really join MSPA Americas for free, indefinitely?

Yes! See below for more information. But there are also so many more benefits to becoming an MSPA Americas Field Talent Plus (paid/preferred) member that you should be aware of.

 

What are the membership options?

Our most recognized and committed members are our Field Talent Plus members. Our Plus level membership has a vast array of benefits for greater success and presently only costs $49/year annual discounted payment, or $5/month, with a minimum 12-month commitment, or $60/year.

 

In addition to what you receive as a Basic member below, Plus (paid/preferred) members receive additional benefits including a free Intro to Mystery Shopping OR Intro to Retail Service Providers & Merchandising (a $55 value) in their first year of membership; listed (along with any earned certifications) on the MSPA Americas database for member companies to search you for their projects and opportunities; discounts on restaurants, attractions, hotels, movies, travels and more through our Member Deals; the ability to take additional certification courses for $15 (versus $55); best pricing discount on ShopperFest, Plus member only webinars, and more. Additional benefits can be found here: Why Join Field Talent

 

MSPA Americas also offers a free basic “Subscriber” Independent Contractor membership level to get you started which includes access to the MSPA Opportunity Board to request available projects in your area, as well as your listing in the MSPA IC Database for member companies to reach out to you for projects.

 

You can remain a Basic (free) Subscriber member with these limited benefits as long as you like and are active in the industry. Your free membership gets you access to our Facebook community page as well as one or two industry webinars a year. You only receive one free membership in your lifetime; if you cancel your Basic (free) account, your only option to rejoin in the future is to join as a Plus (paid/preferred) member.

 

To join MSPA Americas as a Basic (free) or Plus (paid/preferred) member, please go to the top of this page and click on the orange bar that says JOIN MSPA AMERICAS, then the blue bar on the left that says FIELD TALENT REGISTRATION.

 

I saw a for-profit company out there offering advice on how to become a mystery shopper and selling memberships and information for a fee. Are they legitimate?

Hard to say, because as the official not-for-profit international trade association for the industry, MSPA Americas takes care of our own people and our own businesses. We don’t provide any content to any outside for-profit groups; therefore we neither evaluate nor recognize what these outside third-party for-profit entities do. They, and their information, are not sanctioned by us. We also don’t recognize any certifications achieved from any entity but our own, nor will they ever be listed on your MSPA Americas profile for the same reasons. But why take a risk?  By being a member of MSPA Americas, you are getting:

 

• Education and information straight from mystery shopping and merchandising company owners and employees
• Access to a directory of member companies held to an international code of conduct
• Access to an exclusive database of industry projects and opportunities, and,
• Your information provided directly to our member companies to contact you for projects and opportunities.

 

As a not-for-profit, MSPA Americas’ primary goal is to fund and provide legitimate educational and industry opportunities for all our members, rather than seek to earn profits.

 

How do I become a mystery shopper or merchandiser?

You can sign up with any of our members directly, but we recommend becoming a member of MSPA Americas, the industry’s official trade association, as well, or even before you do that. Understand, that while we offer to our members a directory of on-going open projects and assignments from our member companies, as the industry’s official trade association, we do not offer mystery shop or merchandising assignments ourselves. You’ll need to contact companies directly for that. We strongly encourage you to do so only from our current directory of members to avoid accidentally going to a spoofed scam website.

 

Do I need to join MSPA Americas in order to become a mystery shopper or merchandiser?

Most of the industry’s best shoppers and Field Talent tend to be MSPA Americas members. Your membership, as well as the certifications that you earn, indicate to company members that you are likely to be a competent person to entrust the completion of a shop or project to. While you do not have to join MSPA Americas to become a mystery shopper or merchandiser, it is highly recommended for those who as serious about their avocation and those seeking the greatest number of opportunities.

 

GETTING STARTED

 

Where do I find companies to sign up with?

Go to the Service Provider Search on the MSPA Americas website to find a list of current companies who are active members. We strongly only recommend working with current MSPA Americas member companies who are verified as legitimate.

 

What is an MSP or an MSO?

MSP is the official industry designation of a company which provides mystery shopping, and potentially other customer service measurement services. MSO designates companies in the retail services industry that provide merchandising and other related services. MSPs and MSOs are the middleman brokers which connect clients to Field Talent wishing to take on assignments.

 

What do you mean by “Field Talent”?

Field Talent refers collectively to all independent contractors who take on mystery shops, merchandising opportunities and related projects. They are a class of membership within the official not-for-profit international trade association of MSPA Americas.

 

Does MSPA Americas itself conduct mystery shops or merchandising projects?

Never. That is not what we do. We are the official not-for-profit international trade association in the Americas for the companies who do conduct those projects and their employees, as well as Field Talent members.

 

Should I sign up with just one company or many?

As the international trade association for the industry, MSPA Americas encourages you to sign up with as many member companies as you choose to. Our members have varied clients and projects, and signing up with multiple companies allows you access to a wide range of projects.

 

What is the difference between mystery shopping and merchandising?

A mystery shopper is an independent contractor whose assignment is to visit a location and secretly collect data. The location could be a store, restaurant, attraction, hotel, golf course, or any other place that sells products or services. Think of mystery shoppers as “undercover customers” sent in to observe, interact, and accurately and objectively report on their visit to the location and interaction with store employees.

 

Merchandisers are employees or independent contractors who are given assignments to help with the promotional display of products so as to maximize sales. Depending on the project, that may include performing stockouts, organizing the shelf, setting up displays, or setting up price and promotional signs. 

 

What is the difference between the $49/year and $5/month Plus memberships?

Only the cost. An MSPA Americas Talent Plus membership is $60/year, which can be paid all up front and then discounted to $49, or $5 a month over 12 months. Please note that if you choose the $5/monthly option, you are still obligated to pay the full $60 even if you decide to end your membership early. If you do, the unpaid balance will be due immediately. After you’ve paid your full $60 membership fee, you may end your Plus membership at any time, but keep in mind that when you leave MSPA Americas, you forfeit your certifications and companies are no longer able to contact you as you are removed from the database.

 

Are memberships and certification courses refundable?

No. This is prominently displayed on this website. Memberships and purchases of certification courses are not refundable under any circumstances.

 

I purchased an annual Talent Plus membership on the monthly plan. How do I cancel?

You may cancel your membership AFTER you have completed the full payment of your $60 commitment by filling out the cancellation form on this website. If you purchased the discounted $49 membership, you will receive a renewal invoice near the end of your paid year. To renew, you just click on the invoice and submit payment. If you don’t wish to renew, you will be automatically dropped at the end of your grace period for payment.

 

How do I renew my annual $49 Talent Plus membership?

If you purchased the discounted $49 membership, you will receive a renewal invoice on your MSPA Americas account near the end of your paid year. To renew, you just click on the invoice and submit payment. If you don’t wish to renew, you will be automatically dropped at the end of your grace period for payment.

 

Can MSPA Americas schedulers still see my information in order to contact me after I am no longer a member of MSPA Americas?

Not from the MSPA Americas database. Once you are no longer a member of MSPA Americas, your profile is no longer searchable in the MSPA Americas database, and your certifications are forfeited. However, this has no bearing on being seen or contacted by any MSPA Americas member (or non-member) companies which you have signed up with directly (although they will not be able to see or verify any of your previously earned certifications through MSPA Americas).

 

Do I become an employee of each company that I sign up with to complete projects?

No. You are not an employee, nor are you entitled to any benefits which employees receive. You are an independent contractor. Think of it this way: if you sink links and you call a plumber to come fix it, he accepts your project to fix your sink on that day, but he doesn’t become your employee. You will accept one-off individual projects in a similar vein. You are not obligated to take on any projects; however once you do commit to a project, you are expected to finish it properly and on time, just like when someone calls a plumber and the plumber commits to fixing the problem. To learn more about this and independent contractor status, please take the Professional Responsibility and Ethics course.

 

I live in Florida. Should I only sign up with member companies based in Florida?

NO! Where a company is based has no bearing on the projects that they will have. Companies have clients who have locations all over the country or even the world. For instance, McDonalds is headquartered in Illinois, but has locations everywhere. An MSP who held that account is going to be looking to fill opportunities everywhere as well, regardless of where the MSP or MSO has their headquarters. Likewise companies based in Canada or Mexico will have projects which are based in the US and vice versa.

 

Can I quit my job and do this full-time?

Not likely. Taking on MSP and MSO projects is more what we would call today a “side hustle”, intended to supplement and not replace your primary income. While there are a handful of people in the industry who go on the road for weeks at a time doing full-time mystery shopping or MSO projects, this is extremely rare.

 

How much can I make?

If that is your driving question, this may not be the industry for you. Project stipends range from reimbursement of expenses only to significant honorariums. Project stipends and/or reimbursements vary from company to company and project to project, but you will always know in advance what the remuneration terms are before you accept a project.

 

Once I join MSPA Americas, will you help me learn about the industry?

Yes, we provide tools to help you learn about the industry. This is largely done through our Intro to Mystery Shopping or Intro to Retail Service Providers & Merchandising courses, featured webinars, at the annual ShopperFest conference, through newsletters and other resources found on this website or within your logged in account library. We provide the resources; you will need to utilize them to learn about the industry.

 

Once I join MSPA Americas, will you help me find projects that I can apply for?

Yes, when you are an active member of MSPA Americas you will have access to the Opportunity Board when logged into your account. You can find this on the menu bar on the left. Many company members post their remaining project opportunities on this board which they have not already fulfilled. It is a great place to pick-up last-minute opportunities and expand the number of companies that you complete projects for.

 

How do I know which companies are real and are safe to connect with?

We make that easy for you! Only sign up for projects with companies who are current, active members of MSPA Americas and do so from the links on MSPA Americas website.

 

How do I get my first assignment?

After you have signed up with one or more companies, you may need to check each company’s opportunity board (if they have one). Some companies send emails or texts to independent contractors signed up in their system, or they may even have schedulers call you. You can also check the MSPA Americas Opportunity Board for projects that companies have posted looking for independent contractors.

 

Don’t fret if you don’t hear from any of the companies that you sign up for at first. There may not be any projects in your area. There may be projects, but other shoppers that have already been in the system are doing them. Be patient and you will start to find projects come your way.

 

How and when do I get paid for completed assignments?

MSPA Americas does not issue payment for projects, as the association is not the hiring party. Payment is handled directly by the company that awarded you the project. Payment terms vary—some pay within a week, others within 30 to 60 days. Always read the assignment brief and company policies carefully before accepting a project. If the parameters don’t work for you, you are not obligated to accept it, and turn down the project.

 

Which qualities are found in a good mystery shopper or merchandiser?

Both industries require a high attention to detail, the ability to follow directions without deviation and total dependability. Additionally, a strong command of the English language with great writing skills is critical to be a successful mystery shopper as you must paint an accurate, vivid and objective picture with your words of what you experienced, such that the executive reading your report feels as though they were in your shoes experiencing what you did during your visit.

 

Some people say “I love to shop, so I would be a great mystery shopper!” or “I used to be a cook so I would be a great restaurant mystery shopper!” Maybe, but not necessarily. Mystery shopping is about being a market researcher, not so much a shopper or former restaurant employee. Those experiences may make the gig more appealing to you, but you can never let your past experiences bias your current assignment. It is about reporting what happened this time, at this location with these employees. It is not about did they do things the way that you think they should be done; but rather did they do the things that you are supposed to evaluate.

 

 

ACCOUNT & PROFILE MANAGEMENT

 

How do I find my MSPA Americas Account?

To access your MSPA Americas Account after becoming a member, please go to www.MSPA-Americas.org and click on the blue MEMBERS ONLY bubble at the top of the page. This will lead you to a page to enter your Username and Password.

 

I’ve forgotten my Username or Password; what do I do?

On the log in page, click the link that says Forgot your Username or Password. If you don’t see it shortly, be sure to check their spam/junk folder for this e-mail.

 

How do I update my profile information?

Log in to your MSPA Americas account and click on My Info in the blue menu bar to the left. MSPA Americas does not update anyone’s personal account information for them. You must do this on your own.

 

How do I update my preferences on my profile?

Log in to your MSPA Americas account and click on My Info in the blue menu bar to the left. MSPA Americas does not update anyone’s preferences for them. You must do this on your own.

 

How do I reset my Password?

When you attempt to log in, click Forgot your Username or Password and then enter your Username. A link will be sent to your e-mail to reset your password. If you don’t see it shortly, be sure to check their spam/junk folder for this e-mail.

 

How do I change my personal information?

Once logged in to your account, click My Info on the blue menu bar to the left on your Member Profile page. From there, you will have the ability to update your profile by clicking on the orange pencil blocks.

 

How do I find my MSPA Americas Member Account Number?

Once you are logged into your account, click My Info on the blue menu bar to the left on your Member Profile page. In the top left corner, you will see your MSPA Account Number under your name and also in the last line of the CONTACT INFO box.

 

Is the MSPA Americas Member Account Number what I put in an MSPs profile form when I sign up with a company?

No! Even if a form is asking for a number, you do not need to submit a number in a form anymore. You are seeing this request from an MSP member company which has not updated its form since at least 2020. Since that time, you are automatically in the MSPA Americas database when you are a current active member, and you no longer need to place a member or certification number into these forms. Companies are able to find you through the database.

 

Does my MSPA Americas profile track which companies I’ve signed up with?

MSPA Americas does not keep a list of companies you’ve signed up with. However, it’s a good idea to create your own spreadsheet or notebook to track your registrations, login credentials, and contact details for each company. This personal tracking method helps you stay organized and follow up effectively when seeking projects. MSPA Americas Plus members have access to a template as part of their membership to help them track these issues.

 

How do I add my newly earned certification to my profile?

You don’t need to do anything! Once you complete a course and earn a certification, your account will be updated within 48 hours (excluding weekends and holidays) showing your new certification.

 

How do I get another receipt for my purchases?

When you make a purchase with MSPA Americas, a receipt is automatically sent to your email address that you provided. If you need an additional receipt, log in to your MSPA Americas account and click on My Billing Info in the blue menu bar to the left to see your prior payments.

 

What is in the Member Toolbox on my profile page?

Check it out and see! There are lots of resources provided there which give you more information on the industry!

 

What is in the Field Talent Video Libraries?

These libraries are a huge benefit of your membership! They contain recorded webinars on everything from writing great reports, to route shopping to the ShopperFest conference information. You will have access to the library based on your level of membership. While the Plus library has access to all videos, the Basic library is a smaller collection of videos.

 

How do I update my availability or travel preferences?

While MSPA Americas does not maintain records of your personal availability, many company members do allow you to indicate your preferred travel radius or availability windows directly within their platforms. We encourage you to update those preferences regularly in each member company’s system to ensure you’re considered for assignments that best fit your schedule and location.

 

Why can’t I log into the Quick Start Guide for Company Members on my profile?

This is information which only pertains to and is available to our company members.

 

What does it cost to become a mystery shopper or merchandiser at a company?

You should never pay a mystery shopper or merchandiser company to complete assignments and projects for them, nor to be listed in their database. In fact it is against the MSPA Americas rules for its company members to charge a fee to perform assignments for any of our members. MSPA Americas does offer a paid membership (MSPA Americas Talent Plus) with a fee to cover enhanced benefits in the trade association; but you can also join via the MSPA Americas Basic (free) Subscriber membership for no cost.

 

I changed my mind; how do I get a refund of my membership?

There are no membership or certification course refunds. There are no exceptions to this policy. Please review these materials closely before purchasing your membership. If you purchase the $5/monthly membership and want to end your membership before the end of your first-year obligation, you will be immediately responsible for the remaining balance of your first year (you can cancel at any time after you have met your first year 12 months payment requirement). If you cancel in advance of your $60 fee, but you are still responsible for the full remainder of your $60 obligation. If you fail to timely pay your remaining balance obligation, we reserve the right to send that balance to a collections agency and to notify the main credit bureaus of your delinquency. If you purchase the discounted $49 annual membership, you can cancel at any time, but there are no pro-rated refunds. To cancel your membership (free or paid), submit your request on the Communications Form, found on the MSPA Americas website.

 

How do I cancel my membership?

To cancel your membership (free or paid), submit your request on the Communications Form, found on the MSPA Americas website. There are no membership or certification course refunds. There are no exceptions to this policy

 

 

PERFORMANCE AND PROFESSIONALISM

 

How is my work as a mystery shopper evaluated?

Company members often assign internal quality scores based on factors like timeliness, grammar, spelling, accuracy, and completeness of your reports. This feedback is not shared with MSPA Americas but may influence whether you’re selected for future projects at those companies. Strong attention to detail and clear, objective reporting are critical to building trust with your schedulers.

 

Can I lose assignments if I submit poor-quality reports or miss deadlines?

Yes. Poor grammar, vague responses, or missed deadlines can lead to removal from a company’s roster or being passed over for future work. Many companies track performance over time. That’s why MSPA emphasizes the importance of certification, which helps reinforce best practices and reporting standards.

 

What happens if I can’t complete an assignment that I accepted?

Life happens—but it’s important to notify the scheduler immediately if you’re unable to complete a project. Never ghost a project or cancel without explanation, as this may impact your standing with that company or others they collaborate with. Professional communication and advance notice go a long way in maintaining your reputation.

 

Am I bound by an MSPA Americas Code of Ethics?

YES! And you are bound by it the minute you become a member. The Code of Ethics can be downloaded from a link at the top of Field Talent Registration page on the MSPA Americas website. Please review this code so that you don’t inadvertently violate it, especially with things that you write or say and reveal on social media. Your membership can be terminated without refund or you may be even banned from the association for severe violations of the code.

 

Can I bring a friend or child on my mystery shop?

Not unless required by the shop or approved by your scheduler. Mystery shopping requires discretion and independence. Bringing along anyone—even if they don’t participate—can compromise the integrity of the shop and may violate project guidelines. If your visit is supposed to appear like a normal customer experience, introducing additional people to the process can skew the outcome and invalidate your report unless required by the shop or approved by your scheduler.

 

Are there tools or checklists to help me prepare for assignments?

Most companies provide assignment-specific checklists or guidelines—read them carefully before beginning your visit. Additionally, MSPA Americas offers certification courses that help build a foundational checklist in your head. If you’re looking for templates or self-made checklists, consider reaching out to peers in the MSPA Field Talent Facebook community.

 

Who do I contact if I have a problem with an assignment?

Always contact the company that issued the assignment. MSPA Americas does not assign projects, so we won’t have access to project details or the authority to make changes. The scheduler’s name, email, or phone number is typically included in your assignment instructions. Reach out to them promptly anytime before, (discretely) during or after an issue arises.

 

Can I communicate directly with schedulers after I accept a shop?

Yes, and you should if you are unclear or have a question! If you have questions, need clarification, or run into any issues, professional and prompt communication with the scheduler is encouraged. Schedulers value reliable independent contractors who take the time to ask questions rather than assume or guess.

 

Do I need to take photos for most assignments?

Some assignments do require photos, especially merchandising projects or audits. A smartphone camera is usually sufficient, but be sure to read the requirements carefully. If photos are needed, they must be clear, well-lit, and meet the specifications given—otherwise, your report may be rejected or require revision.

 

What kind of equipment do I need for merchandising or audits?

While not all projects require equipment, it’s common for merchandisers to use tools like a smartphone, tape measure, box cutter, pen and notepad, or even a small step stool. The company you’re working with will specify what’s needed. Just as with video mystery shops, as an independent contractor, you are expected to supply your own tools.

 

What is the Opportunity Board?

Looking for available opportunities in your area? Check out the postings from our member companies. This is a benefit restricted to members, so be sure to sign up at least for our free membership level first. You can find the Opportunity Board on the left-hand menu when logged in to your account.

 

 

MSPA AMERICAS CERTIFICATION COURSES

 

What are the Certification Courses?

As the official not-for-profit international trade association for the industry, MSPA Americas offers industry-sanctioned certification courses (to members only, Basic or Plus) to formalize your education and certify to member companies that you have studied and passed an exam in each of these programs. Many member companies look for independent contractors who have completed certain certifications for a specific project or even take courses in general to invite those people to join their database for future projects. Certification programs allow you to make informed decisions and professional improvements for yourself in a world of over a million mystery shoppers, helping you stand out among the crowd with tangible proof of your industry knowledge.

 

What about certification courses offered by other companies?

There are a number of private for-profit companies who may offer certification programs. MSPA Americas has no control over those programs and therefore does not recognize any certifications other than their own in the MSPA Americas Field Talent database. Only certifications earned through MSPA Americas, the official not-for-profit international trade association for the industry, are recognized by the association and placed on your profile for company members to see.

 

What certifications are available?

Over 20 courses are available in various disciplines and industries. Remember that in order to take most courses, you have to have completed the Core Courses. Please visit the certification course page on our website for more information. https://www.mspa-americas.org/certification

 

Which courses are the core courses?

The core courses are Intro to Mystery Shopping, Professional Report Writing and Professional Responsibility and Ethics.

 

Which courses should I take?

You must complete the three “core courses” prior to taking most of the remaining specialty courses. The core courses are Intro to Mystery Shopping, Professional Report Writing and Professional Responsibility and Ethics. All Field Talent Plus members receive free access to take the Intro to Mystery Shopping course in their first year of membership (a $55 value). These core courses cover the basic fundamentals of how the mystery shopping industry operates, how to write vivid, descriptive reports that will meet the expectations of the companies you offer your services to, and how to operate your small business (yes, you are a small business operator the day you take on your first project!) in a professional and ethical manner.

 

How do I earn a certification?

To receive your certification in any course, you must purchase and complete a reading of the course, and then pass the online exam (or in-person exam if taking at ShopperFest) at a level of 80% or higher. You have one year from the date of purchase to complete and pass the course. After the one year expires, you will need to repurchase the course to continue to study the material and pass the exam. MSPA does not issue certification numbers, but all of your completed certifications are both visible in your profile and searchable by our service provider members who may contact you for work.

 

How do MSPs know that I have certifications on my profile?

So long as you are an active, current member of MSPA Americas, MSPs can search for members holding certifications that they are looking for. As an example, you take the QSR (Quick Service Restaurants) course. You pass the exam and within 48 hours (excluding weekends and holidays) your profile will be updated to show that you have earned the certification in QSR. Now a scheduler can go into the database and search for all shopper members who have achieved their certification in QSR, and so your name and information will pop up for the scheduler to see. If there is a location in your area, the scheduler may then reach out to you to offer the project. This process is much easier and accurate for you than the old system.

What if I don’t complete the course in a year?

You have one year from the date of purchase to complete and pass the course. After the one year expires, you will need to repurchase the course to continue to study the material and pass the exam.

 

Where do I purchase MSPA Americas Certification Courses?

Courses can be purchased in the MSPA Americas online store and are administered through KnightOwl, the online learning management system used by the association. There are nearly 20 available courses available.

 

How much are MSPA Americas Certification Courses?

Most courses are $55 for Basic members. Active Plus members can purchase the same courses for $15. Gold and Video I and Video II are priced differently from the rest.

 

What devices do I need to take an MSPA Americas Certification Course?

In most situations, certification courses can be completed online. Our platform allows us to offer most of our certifications to you 24/7! All courses should be completed on a PC or Mac.  Mobile devices, including smartphones and tablets, may not compatible with the certification courses.

 

Can I take any MSPA Americas Certification Courses in-person?

Yes! A handful of courses are offered live at the annual ShopperFest conference. You have the opportunity to read the material in advance, but can defer taking the exam until you attend the review session at the conference. Those who earn a certification at ShopperFest are recognized at the conference and provided a token certificate. Actual hard certificates are only provided to those who earn their certification(s) in person at ShopperFest. Video II, due to the nature of its curriculum, is only offered at ShopperFest.

 

What is I don’t pass the online exam the first time?

You are able to retake the course and exam up to 3 times within one year from date of purchase. After submitting your exam and finalizing the course, return to the course page and click “Retake Course”.

 

I want to take the Casinos course, but I don’t want to take the core courses.

Completing the core courses are mandatory before taking most upper level courses. This is because, similar to a college or university, advanced certification courses build upon issues and foundations covered in the pre-requisite core courses. There are a couple courses which may be taken at any time. These are MSPA Gold, Video Shopping I and Video Shopping II (which is a practicum course and is therefore only available to be taken at ShopperFest). In addition to Video Shopping II, there are a number of certification review courses and exams offered at ShopperFest each year.

 

I’ve been mystery shopping for 25 years; why do I have to take the core courses?

There is no “credit for life experience”. We don’t have the resource to do background checks to verify these types of things. More importantly, displaying an MSPA certification on your account signifies to the industry and its schedulers that you have reviewed our specific industry curricula and that you have achieved a passing score in those disciplines. There is absolutely no waiver to this policy.

 

I passed a course but didn’t get a certification code; what happened?

MSPA Americas hasn’t issued certification codes since 2019 and no longer used them. Prior to 2020, you were given a code when you achieved a certification, and it was your responsibility to enter that code into every MSP that you signed up with. Many people were affiliated with dozens of companies, making this a very tedious process. In 2020, a new system was put in place where certification codes were no longer necessary. Now, once you earn a certification, this information is automatically placed on your MSPA Americas profile for you. This can be seen when you log in to your profile. While these are often placed on your account much sooner, please remember to allow up to 48 hours (excluding weekends and holidays) for your certification to appear.

 

I earned a certification in Silver many years ago but lost my code. How do I look it up?

There are two issues here. The first is that the Silver course, a very basic course from 2005, has not been recognized in over a decade. It was replaced in 2014 with Intro to Mystery Shopping. Grossly outdated, Silver is no longer recognized by MSPA Americas. The second issue is that codes were phased out in 2020.

 

I earned a certification in Gold many years ago but lost my code. How do I look it up?

The Gold course, a severely outdated two decades old course from 2005, has been updated in 2025. Those who earned certifications in the original Gold course are still given credit for what is now named “Legacy Gold” through May 1, 2026. After May 1, Legacy Gold will be retired and only the new Gold course will be tracked. Keep in mind that codes from achieving Gold and other certifications were phased out in 2020. If you achieved a Legacy Gold certification and have not had your account purged in 2023, your Gold certification credential is on your account.

 

What was the 2023 purge and how does that affect my certifications?

The MSPA Americas database was created in 2014. Between the summers of 2022 and 2023, information was posted on the website, 5 emailed notices were sent out to each account in the database at the time and multiple emailed newsletters were sent informing members that, due to changes in data privacy laws, they must log in to their account prior to June 16, 2023 to confirm that they still wished to maintain their membership and have their information in the MSPA Americas database. After a one-year series of notices, any accounts which were not logged into were deemed to have terminated their membership in MSPA Americas, and all information, including earned certifications, was permanently and irrevocably destroyed. If you earned a certification in 2018 and did not confirm your account by the deadline, we no longer have that data to verify your certification. This was a necessary step for the association to take to maintain its compliance with new data privacy laws.

 

I was a member in the past and lost my membership by not responding prior to the 2023 purge. How do I rejoin?

All you need to do is sign up again as a new member.

 

If MSPA Americas doesn’t use certification codes anymore, what happened to my prior certifications?

If you earned certifications in the era when codes were issued your MSPA Americas profile was populated with those achieved certifications when the profile was originally created in 2020. They are still there so long as you confirmed your account by June 16, 2023.

 

I’m applying to an MSP and it asks me for my MSPA code or certification code, but it won’t go through. Why?

Because you are applying to an MSP member company which has not updated its form since at least 2020. Prior to 2020, you were given a code when you achieved a certification, and it was your responsibility to enter that code into every MSP that you signed up with. Many people were affiliated with dozens of companies, making this a very tedious process. In 2020, a new system was put in place where certification codes were no longer necessary. Now, once you earn a certification, this information is automatically placed on your MSPA Americas profile for you. This can be seen when you log in to your profile. While these are often placed on your account much sooner, please remember to allow up to 48 hours (excluding weekends and holidays) for your certification to appear.

 

Do I have to remain a member for my certifications to remain active?

YES! You must be an active member of MSPA Americas (i.e. have logged into your account as least once in the previous 12 months) for your record and your certifications to appear in a Service Provider Company search. If you have not logged in within the last 12 months, the system will assume you are no longer active and not return your record in a search. Once you are no longer an active member, your information is no longer visible to MSP schedulers. If you completely purge your account, all the information in it, including achieved certifications, is irreversibly destroyed and you will need to purchase and recertify those courses if you rejoin the association.

 

MSPA AMERICAS SHOPPERFEST CONFERENCE

 

What is ShopperFest?

ShopperFest is the only sanctioned official mystery shopper/merchandiser independent contractor conference in the industry. MSPA Americas hosts this annual 3-day weekend event in a different location around the country each June. Prior locations have been Orlando, Las Vegas, Anaheim, Dallas, Pittsburgh and on the cruise ships Royal Caribbean Independence of the Seas and Carnival Conquest. ShopperFest is a weekend full of great speakers on industry topics, both for new and experienced independent contractors, with specialized breakout sessions, in-person certification course reviews and exams, networking with company executives and schedulers, and plenty of fun and entertainment. The next ShopperFest conference will be held June 26 – 28, 2026 in Las Vegas. You can find registration details on the MSPA Americas website.

 

MSPA Americas partially subsidizes the cost of the conference to keep registration fees low. Additionally, Field Talent Plus members received preferred pricing. View the events page to see more information on the next ShopperFest.

 

Why is ShopperFest better than any other industry conference?

Here are just a handful of reasons:

• Shopperfest is the only industry sanctioned conference for mystery shoppers.
• The content is provided by mystery shopping company owners and executives, not others giving their (sometimes inaccurate) opinions on mystery shopping topics, but rather the actual leaders in the industry giving you the real information directly.
• Typically 18 – 20 general and specialized educational breakout sessions along multiple tracks are offered, including content for new shoppers, veteran shoppers and video shoppers, once again all led by company owners and executives.
• Multiple networking opportunities to meet one on one with the presenters and to get to know fellow shopper attendees.
• The ability to take certification courses live on site and receive instant recognition onsite for those who pass their examinations.
• Fun events for ice-breaking and socializing.
• Free gifts, giveaways and door prizes.
• MSPA Americas subsidizes through its amazing sponsors a percentage of your registration fee. The association wants to make it easier for you to attend.

 

Where are the 2025 and 2026 ShopperFest conferences being held?

The 2025 conference was already held May 16 – 19 on the cruise ship Carnival Conquest out of Miami. ShopperFest 2026 will be held in Las Vegas, June 26 – 28.

 

How much is it to attend ShopperFest?

Subsidized registration fees start at $275. There are further discounts for early bird registrations (through December 31) and Talent Plus members. The best price for ShopperFest is always offered at the current year’s conference to the attendees who book on site.

 

What is the usual meeting pattern for ShopperFest?

Friday afternoon to Sunday afternoon. The program typically concludes on the last with lunch, ending around 2pm.

 

What does my ShopperFest registration fee typically include?

Your ShopperFest registration fee typically includes:

• All general sessions and customized breakout sessions throughout the weekend.
• All Friday evening networking events and activities.
• Friday night dinner reception, and lunch on Saturday and Sunday.
• Periodic snack breaks.
• Free gifts, giveaways and door prizes.
• Talent Plus members receive one free certification course onsite.

 

What is not included in my ShopperFest registration fee?

• Transportation to and from the conference.
• Hotel.
• Optional off-site Saturday evening event.
• Any meals or other items not listed as included in the registration fee.

 

 

SCAMS AND FRAUD

 

Is this real authentic looking unsolicited check I received a scam?

If you have received an unsolicited check to conduct a mystery shop for which you purchase products and send them to a specified address or wire money from check that was sent to you in the mail, it is a scam. Would you send a stranger a cashier’s check for $3000 and hope they do the right thing? Scammers may steal the logos of our members (or even MSPA Americas itself) and pretend to be those entities. So to make sure you are going to the legitimate website when you choose to sign up for projects with a company, only connect with them for the first time through their link on the MSPA Americas’ website. And remember, MSPA Americas does not conduct ANY mystery shopping projects itself.

 

What should I do if I receive a fraudulent check?

You don’t need to contact MSPA Americas about this as there is nothing the association can do to assist you with this. MSPA Americas is not an investigatory agency or governmental entity, and the law looks at you as the one having legal standing to file a complaint with the FTC since the package was addressed to you. That said, MSPA Americas does strongly encourage you to file a complaint at www.FTC.gov, and to only sign up to take on projects for companies who are MSPA Americas members, from their link on the MSPA Americas website so that you don’t inadvertently click on a fake or spoofed link.

 

I received an email to become a mystery shopper from a company that I have never heard of. How do I know whether this is a scam?

Just because you receive an email to become a mystery shopper from a company that you have never heard of doesn’t necessarily mean that it is a scam email. Remember, as a member of MSPA Americas, and one of your benefits for joining, is that MSPA Americas company members can see your profile and location, and therefore their schedulers may reach out to you to offer you new opportunities or to sign up with that company. In this instance, your first act is to check the MSPA Americas database on the website. You can find this under Service Provider Search in the menu bar. If they are not listed as an active, vetted member, BEWARE! This does not necessarily mean that the email was a scam, but why take a chance? With nearly 100 vetted, active MSPA Americas company members, there are literally tens of thousands of opportunities from these safe companies to choose from.

 

I received an email to do a shop or to sign up to do shops for MSPA (or MSPA Americas, MSPA Mystery Shopping, MSPA Company, or other variations). Is it legitimate?

MSPA Americas is the trade association for this industry. It is the home for mystery shopping companies and Field Talent, providing benefits, networking and educational opportunities. MSPA Americas does not conduct mystery shopping projects itself. Any communication purporting otherwise is not trustworthy. The association does send email soliciting membership in MSPA Americas; attending workshops, webinars and conferences; and taking certification courses, but it does not solicit you to conduct shops for the association.

 

But isn’t there an Opportunity Board at MSPA Americas?

Yes, but this board is filled with opportunities from our company members who are conducting the projects, not MSPA Americas itself.

 

MISCELLANEOUS

 

I heard I can’t do shops in Las Vegas; is that true?

You can’t do shops anywhere in the state of Nevada unless you are a licensed private investigator or working underneath one. This is the only state with this type of restriction.

 

Should I start off with video shops? I hear they generally pay more.

No!!! We do not recommend beginning your mystery shopping career by doing video shops, which are some of the most complex shops in the industry. In a video mystery shop, you are still doing an underlying mystery shop…but with the added complexity of secretly recording the shop. We strongly recommend that you not attempt video shops until you have been shopping for long enough to feel comfortable adding this layer into the mix. And yes, they generally do pay more, due to this complexity.

 

Do companies provide video equipment for video shops?

If a company were to provide you equipment, they would be placing both you and them into financial jeopardy for tax liabilities. As an independent contractor, the IRS expects you to provide your own work tools. Think of a plumber, who is also an independent contractor. After you call a plumber to fix your leaking sink, you wouldn’t expect him or her to say “OK, will you have my tools for me there to do my job?” You would expect that person to show up with the tools necessary to do the job. Likewise, as independent contractors, video shoppers are expected to buy and use their own video equipment. Check with each company as to which video products they require on their assignments.

 

What should I do if I haven’t been paid for a project?

First, confirm that you completed the project requirements and submitted the report on time. Then, follow up directly with the company using the scheduler’s contact info or support email. If you have tried these things and still cannot resolve the issue, you should consult legal counsel as to your next steps.

 

Can MSPA Americas intervene in a dispute with a company?

No. We are a trade association, not a legislative body with legal authority to resolve disputes and issue remedies. If you can’t resolve the dispute directly with the company, you should consult legal counsel as to your next steps. We encourage all Field Talent members to complete projects only with current, active company members of MSPA Americas to minimize any challenges in this manner. You can find a list of these companies on the MSPA Americas website under Service Provider Search.

 

Are MSPA Americas company members held to a code?

Yes. Every MSPA Americas company member goes through a vetting process and is held to an international Code of Ethics. This is monitored by staff and the MSPA Americas board of directors and reviewed annually. If the board encounters a code of ethics issue which may be in conflict with a company member’s actions, the issue is reviewed directly with that member. If the company member is found in violation of the code, the company may have their membership suspended or terminated, or any other action within the association’s limited jurisdiction applied, at the association’s sole discretion. This process is an internal MSPA Americas board of directors review and is not open to participation by any class of membership.

 

What is your phone number?

MSPA Americas does not provide phone support to our Field Talent level of membership. Please review this FAQ and other website resources for answers to your questions.

 

I still have a question!

Do you still have a question that hasn’t been answered? We’re happy to help! A chat tool is in development and will soon be available on the website.

 
Thank you for your interest in becoming a member of MSPA Americas!