Check any program before you pay.

Seven checks

1. Write down every name

   The company, the owners, the coaches, and every brand or website name they use. Government cases often list several names for one operation.

2. Search the FTC’s cases

   Search FTC Cases and Proceedings for each name.

3. Trading, forex or crypto? Check registration

   The CFTC says to verify registration and disciplinary history before trading with anyone, because most scams involve unregistered people, firms and products. (CFTC, Be Smart: Check Registration and Backgrounds Before You Trade)

   Use Investor.gov, FINRA BrokerCheck, NFA BASIC and the CFTC RED List.

4. Search SEC actions

   Check SEC Litigation Releases and SEC Action Lookup. SEC Action Lookup only covers actions filed through January 2025, so check both.

5. Check with your state

   Check with your state attorney general for complaints, but no complaints doesn't guarantee a company is honest. (FTC Consumer Alert, How to spot and avoid business coaching scams (April 2026))

   Find your attorney general through USA.gov or NAAG, and your state consumer protection office.

6. Look up the business registration

   State business registration offices keep public records on companies. For example, California's Secretary of State maintains records and provides information to the public on corporations, LLCs and other business entities. (California Secretary of State, Business Entities)

   The SBA state registration lookup points you to the right office.

7. Get real answers before you pay

   Before paying for a business opportunity, the FTC suggests getting clear answers on what you'd be doing, how the business would make money, what your expenses would be, and when you'd expect a profit. (FTC Consumer Advice, When a Business Offer or Coaching Program Is a Scam)

   If a program is covered, the seller has to give you a one-page Disclosure Document at least seven days before you sign a contract or pay any money. (FTC Business Guidance, Selling a Work-at-Home or Other Business Opportunity? Revised Rule May Apply to You)