Shopper Login | Call Us - (800) 462-8765 | Call Us - (818) 337-1272
Interior Page Background

Client Support

SHOPPERS & INDEPENDENT CONTRACTORS

Flexible Mystery Shopping Opportunities

Since 1981, DSG Associates has partnered with independent contractors to complete mystery shopping, field audits, customer interviews, intercept studies, and online or telephone evaluations.

Assignments are flexible and can often be completed on your own schedule. Each project includes clear instructions and an online report where you'll document your observations and experiences.
Business meeting wih chart

TYPES OF ASSIGNMENTS

As an independent contractor, you may qualify for projects such as:

Mystery Shopping
Evaluate customer service, employee performance, and the overall customer experience.
Field Audits
Verify displays, pricing, inventory, signage, compliance, and other operational standards.
Customer Interviews
Gather valuable feedback through structured interviews and surveys.
Intercept Studies
Speak with customers at or near business locations to collect real-time opinions
Telephone & Online Evaluations
Complete research assignments remotely from your home or office.

Every assignment includes detailed instructions and an online report where you document your observations accurately and objectively.

SHOPPER PAY

Compensation varies by assignment.

• Most projects pay under $100.
• Many pay between $20 and $75.
• Payment details are always provided before you accept an assignment.

SCAM ALERT

DSG Associates will NEVER:

• Ask you to send money.
• Send you a check before work is completed.
• Ask you to wire money or purchase gift cards.
• Offer unusually high pay for a simple mystery shop.

If someone claiming to represent DSG Associates asks you to cash a check, transfer money, or promises excessive compensation, it is likely a scam.

These email addresses are NOT associated with DSG Associates:

• dsgainc.com
• dsgaimysteryshopper@californiamail.com
• dsgaimysteryshopper@gmail.com

If you receive suspicious emails, counterfeit checks, or unexpected payment requests, do not respond or deposit the check.

Contact Shopper Support:
Phone: (800) 462-8765 ext. 183
Email: Shoppersupport@dsgai.com

PROFESSIONAL RESOURCES

Independent contractors are encouraged to learn more about the mystery shopping industry through the Mystery Shopping Professionals Association (MSPA).

You can also report mystery shopping scams to:

• Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
• Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)
• United States Postal Inspection Service
• Office of the Comptroller of the Currency
• Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

A mystery shopper is an independent contractor who evaluates a business by completing a specific assignment and reporting on their experience. Assignments may be completed in person, by phone, or online and often involve observing customer service, asking questions, making a purchase, or evaluating the overall customer experience.

After the assignment, shoppers submit an online report based on what they observed. Mystery shoppers choose which assignments they accept and may work with multiple mystery shopping companies.

Businesses across many industries use mystery shopping to better understand the customer experience and improve their operations.

Common reasons include:
  • Measuring customer service
  • Evaluating employee performance
  • Monitoring brand standards
  • Verifying compliance
  • Testing training effectiveness
  • Understanding the competition
The information collected helps businesses make informed decisions and improve overall performance.

Founded in 1981, DSG Associates connects businesses with qualified independent contractors to complete mystery shopping, audits, surveys, and research assignments throughout the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico.

Most assignments take 20 to 30 minutes, and compensation varies depending on the project. Shoppers are paid for approved assignments and may also receive reimbursement for required purchases when applicable.

As independent contractors, shoppers complete assignments on their own schedule and submit reports online. DSG may contact shoppers to clarify information when needed to ensure accurate reporting.

Getting started is simple.
  • Register through our online shopper portal.
  • Complete your shopper profile.
  • Watch for assignments in your area.
  • Accept the opportunities that fit your schedule.
If you have questions, you can also contact DSG Associates at (800) 462-8765 during normal business hours.

Available assignments are posted in the shopper portal, and you may also receive email or phone notifications when projects become available in your area.

Each assignment includes:
  • Location
  • Dates and times
  • Shopper scenario
  • Purchase requirements (if applicable)
  • Compensation
  • Reporting instructions
Always review the assignment guidelines carefully before completing a shop to ensure it meets client requirements and qualifies for payment.

Payment varies by assignment and is clearly listed before you accept a project.

Approved assignments are paid according to DSG Associates' payment schedule. If a purchase is required, eligible reimbursements are included as outlined in the assignment details.

Independent contractors who meet IRS reporting requirements will receive the appropriate tax forms at the end of the year.

Yes. DSG Associates respects your privacy and does not sell your personal information.

In limited cases, we may share your name and email address with a trusted mystery shopping partner for assignment opportunities. When applicable, you will always have the opportunity to opt out before your information is shared.