Question
How do I know if an MLM is worth it?
Short answer: Compare likely net income after expenses with the money, time, inventory, and relationship costs required to participate.
Why this matters
A person can value flexibility or community and still need clear numbers before spending money.
A fair comparison includes startup costs, recurring costs, unpaid time, unsold product, taxes, and the chance of earning nothing.
Questions to ask before joining
- What is the median result for comparable new participants?
- What are common first-year costs?
- What would I do with the same time and money outside this opportunity?
Related recruiting phrases
Helpful next pages
Sources
- Multi-level Marketing Businesses and Pyramid Schemes, Federal Trade Commission . Accessed 2026-06-14. Support type: Regulator guidance.
- Business Guidance Concerning Multi-Level Marketing, Federal Trade Commission , 2024 . Accessed 2026-06-14. Support type: Regulator guidance.