Sure, it sounds great! Work from home and make $250,000 your first year, while you work 15 hours a week. But is it legitimate? Probably not.

SmartMomma gives you some tips on avoiding work-at-home scams.

• Remember that if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

• Never should you have to pay any money to “invest” in an opportunity to work. Be wary of any company that asks you for personal information and especially, for any money out of your pocket.

• Check out the company with the Better Business Bureau. If they are not listed with the BBB or if they have any complaints against them, walk away.

• Ask for at least three references of current employees.

• Research any ongoing scams on websites such as Scambusters or the National Fraud Information Center.

• Report any scams or fraudulent companies to the Federal Trade Commission.

The most important way to avoid losing your money or your identity to fraud is to use common sense. Do not give your personal information out to just anybody. Do not invest any money into a business opportunity you saw on the Internet or e-mail, unless you are sure it’s legitimate and is approved by the Better Business Bureau. Remember Rule #1, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.