In a message dated 98-06-11 11:25:12 EDT, you write: I do census and other genealogical research, although not under this screenname, and I never ask for money in advance. My rule of thumb is to check first to see if I can even access information that will be of help first, and then work out with the client a time line and payment amount, with frequent updates to let them know how their money is being spent. I have been doing it online now for 3 years, and have NEVER had a problem with a client regarding being paid. Maybe I've been lucky, but my relationships with my clients have all been, without exception, good ones. I, for one, do not think that anyone should ever pay in advance, unless you have already established a working relationship with a researcher, or have good references from people or organizations you trust. That's my two cents Ron Baumhover