Thread: a Question about the ACNielson homscan consumer panel

I just got an email from homescan and they want you to scan your free samples now.

you aren't going to get rich off doing it, but then there are few surveys or rewards programs that will give you much for what you do.

I have been doing it for almost two years now. I have cashed out for
1. Fisher Price Little People School Bus
2. RCA portable cd player boom box
3. Homedics Weight Scale
4. Square (name brand) Ice Chest

and I could cash out for several smaller items at the moment but am considering saving up again.

From the numerous threads covering this topic, how much you actually have to do depends on your situation and where you live.

I only scan each item I have purchased or have been given (freebies) scanning the freebies has always been something to do. When I scan an item it asks how many, if there were any specials used and if so was it a sale or coupon and the amount of the coupon, if any.

Now other people who do double or triple coupons do more work. I believe that they must enter in prices and such for each item.

The only time I have to enter a price is for something like meat from the butcher's counter, fresh fruits and veggies, gasoline and such.

I also have a lot of survey invites which add to your points along with panels that you do weekly or less that give you additional points.

In my case I would recommend it, there are some nice gifts to be earned, it doesn't take up much time - I am already putting away my groceries and just scan each item as it hits the cabinet. It also helps me keep track of my purchases - there have been several times while scanning I have realized something was missing only to find it had fallen out in the car. hth's

I sent mine back

I prefer shopper hotline- I tried this one and kept having problems with the scanner. With the one I have now- You just have to scan and enter the total that you paid for your groceries or whatever you bought. I like to take it to staples or if I go club shopping- scan once and done!

Originally Posted by Tsiskin

I agree with Racs. It's not so bad if you bring the scanner to the store and scan as you pick up the item. That way, you have the sale and coupon info right there.
I've been lucky. Most of the stores I shop at don't require prices, except for things like produce and baked goods. But 3 or 4 times out of 50 isn't bad.

I've been a member for a little over a year and I can redeem for the 2nd to top level awards already.

My scanner has worked fairly well the whole time, and has even survived several drops from the cart. I've been able to use the software on both XP and Vista systems. (I don't leave the application running. I start it up when I want to transmit, and then exit when I'm done, so it's not a resource drain.)

It's sure a lot easier than some of the surveys I attempt, and I know I'm going to get the points. (That seems to be a big complaint in other posts.)

As stated earlier, it seems to be a personal preference as to whether it is worth it or not.

do they send you software to transmit over the computer, I have to do it over the phone the computer would be so much easier.