A scheme that requires you to pay money up front — for training, equipment, or fees — to unlock a promised job or reward.
In an advance-fee scam, the victim is asked to pay a relatively small amount now in exchange for a much larger benefit later — a job, a paycheck, or reimbursement. The promised benefit never materializes, and the fee is gone.
In employment fraud this appears as charges for a “starter kit,” background check, training materials, or software. A genuine employer bears these costs; money should always flow to you, never from you.
Red flags
- Any requirement to pay before you can start
- Promise of reimbursement on your first paycheck
- Payment demanded via gift cards, crypto, or wire
Deep-dive guide
Upfront Fee & Equipment Deposit Job Scams: How They Work and How to Spot Them
Frequently asked questions
Should I ever pay to get a job?
No. Legitimate employers never require payment for training, equipment, or background checks. Being asked to pay to start work is one of the clearest signs of a scam.