Are all MLM businesses legit opportunities, or are they all scams? Before jumping into any MLM business, you may be cautious of the stigma that comes along with it. You know, the whole idea of it being a scam or that you have to be at the top of the company to make any money.

Well, I'm going to get to the bottom of whether or not MLM, or Multi-level marketing, businesses are great opportunities or scams. And whether or not you can make money in the company, even if the MLM company is 30 years old.

First, let me say that there are thousands of great MLM companies that are provide an opportunity for the "average person" to become financially free. They provide quality products. And offer contests that allows its consumers and distributors to enjoy maximum benefits from its products use in a friendly competition, that usually awards cash prizes and free products to people who achieves the most from its use.

These companies understand that the survival of their companies lies in its consumers, or people who consistently purchase products and services. Therefore, they emphasize on finding customers and consumers. And have deep passion for helping people who'll benefit from its products use. So, to say the least, most MLM companies are legit opportunities.

However, there are some MLM businesses out there that are scams. They fall into two categories of scams. The pyramid scheme and the ponzi scheme.

The pyramid scheme, which many people confuse a legit MLM opportunity with, is a scheme that pays people solely for enrolling someone, usually without any products of services being delivered.

To identify whether or not a MLM business is a pyramid scheme, check for the following:

1. If the company keeps implying that it is not a Pyramid scheme,

2. An income stream that pays primarily for enrolling people,

3. A company with little to no information on products or services,

4. the claim that only people who join in the company's early stage will make any money.

An important fact of a MLM business being a legit opportunity and not a pyramid scheme is that you can generate money from sales of products and services, without the consumer having to join or enroll in the company.

The other scam, called the Ponzi scheme, is when a company brings in enrollments, without having any products or services, and uses the money gained from the transaction to pay off the people at the top. According to the FTC, or Federal Trade Commission, "...there is an expression that nicely summarizes this scheme: It's called "stealing from Peter to pay Paul."

So, to save yourself the time, trouble, and money, review the MLM company you're wanting to take part in, and make sure they have real products and services.

Now that you know there are thousands of legit MLM business opportunities, find one you like and take control of your life and enjoy the benefits gained from being in the MLM industry. With the proper training and skillset, you'll be able to grow your MLM business into a great business that you'll be very proud of.