I'm suspicious about my new job. It seems too good to be true. I'm being paid $140/hour to copy and paste. I can't believe this is real. Waiting for the other shoe to drop.

Anonymous

July 10,2024 at 1:44PM UTC

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I'm suspicious about my new job. It seems too good to be true. I'm being paid $140/hour to copy and paste. I can't believe this is real. Waiting for the other shoe to drop.

I am an older student (mid 40's) who recently graduated from business school. I was doing freelance accounting / secretarial work on one of those freelancer websites. A few months ago I was selected for a freelance excel job. Most of the freelance work I had done was for individuals; this time, the CEO of a company hired me for a project. It was a super-easy pivot table job and paid $40/hour. Easy money. I work from home, and set my own hours. I couldn't believe my luck. At a certain point, I was able to automate the work. The project took me 2 weeks to complete.

After the job finished, I told the hiring manager that I had completed business school and that I could do more than just excel. I sent them a formal resume and told them I'd like to interview for a position if they had any open. The next month, they came back and asked me to do an interview for a position on their mergers and acquisitions team. I had specialized experience in M&A so I felt good about the position.

I nailed the interview. They hired me on the spot as a freelancer on a 1099. Then came the dreaded part about negotiating rate. I told them that I wanted $55/hour but the CEO insisted on paying me $140 an hour. I nearly burst out into tears but kept it together. It didn't seem real. I kept telling myself the job was going to fall through and not to get excited. But then the contract arrived. Then they gave me paid training. Then I started working. They paid me weekly. Then they told me that I was doing too much and that the job was fairly simple. That all I needed to do, for this part of the job was to copy and paste -- and that the more complex part of the job comes later.

So now, I'm working for this firm getting paid $140 to copy and paste into excel. The people there are friendly. The CEO is all about self-empowerment and improvement, helping others giving back to the community. Everything appears to be done ethically, and above board. I am able to work from home and set my own hours; though I am only working 24 hours per week - so it gives me a lot of flexibility with the kids this summer - which is sorely needed. This job is everything that all jobs from my 20s, 30s and 40s was not -- and now I'm super scared that I'm going to screw it up. The money is life-changing. Earlier this year we were almost homeless after my husband was in a serious car accident and was unable to work for the past 18 months.

When will this start feeling real?

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MaryaliceJuly 10,2024 at 1:54PM UTC
I’m going into the same situation but it’s a full time position and am fearful about it being too good to be true and am looking for responses as well. Am I truly getting this based on my experience and merits.
AnonymousJuly 12,2024 at 5:36PM UTC
Too good to be true is your intuition warning you that it's really Too good to be LEGAL! When dealing with data, records and transactions, participation in falsifying records can land you in federal prison!
AnonymousJuly 14,2024 at 4:05PM UTC
OP here: Anonymous, I'm not sure why you keep posting comments stating that the job I am doing is Money Laundering, part of a Rico scheme or illegal. I'm responding to each of your nonsensical comments -- as your comments are totally unfounded and I don't want people to get the wrong impression.
My suspicions have more to do with my INNER CONFIDENCE rather that some RICO crime you have imagined. This post is more about feeling insecure with your inner worth and reconciling it with what you get paid. It is not about YOUR unfounded suspicions.
Again, stating for the record. For this project we are working with the government and there's a compliance manager on staff. Everything is done above board - as far as I can tell. Yes, I've had to run things through compliance; and others have had to run things through compliance before I receive the documents. In terms of documents and access, this is a very regulated company.
Could I be wrong? Sure. And if I am, I'm happy to come back here to state that "Anonymous" on the Internet was right!
Ultimately, I know way more about the situation than you. Your opinion is bolstered by the limited info you have and an overactive imagination. I'm guessing you are a true crime fan? Girl, so am I but this isn't a crime situation. The project is run in collaboration with government officials, a compliance manager and I've lost count of the number of attorneys on the project. What I do know is that this project ends in October.
There are a group of us working on the same project. Everyone doing my type of work has an MBA or is a licensed attorney. Why do they need attorneys and MBAs to copy and paste? I don't know other than part 2 of the job requires analysis and audit determinations based on the data that was copied.
Yes, the boss is in the USA, he is a licensed attorney in good standing-- I checked with the state bar – He owns multiple businesses. He seems to favor empowerment, diversity, flex-time and good working conditions. Normally, when I get a job I get one of those things -- Not all of them + the money.
I guess I have imposter syndrome.
So you can continue to believe that this is a RICO case and that I'm going to prison, but I think that sounds foolish given the additional facts I've supplied.
I respectfully ask that you stop repeating this assertion. It is untrue and not based in fact.
Respectfully,
$140/hr Anonymous woman
AnonymousJuly 14,2024 at 4:06PM UTC
OP here again: Even if the project I'm on is fraud -- which is is not -- we are working directly with the state on the project. In any case the state would have jurisdiction. Claims about going to federal prison are simply from the mind of a fantasist!
AnonymousJuly 10,2024 at 2:05PM UTC
After a few real paychecks.
Congratulations
AnonymousJuly 12,2024 at 5:33PM UTC
REAL paychecks mean nothing! It's called MONEY LAUNDERING and it's ILLEGAL! Her gut has already warned her! But you can contribute to her Go Fund Me when she needs to get a lawyer to try to stay out of prison for cooking books!
AnonymousJuly 14,2024 at 3:52PM UTC
OP here: Anonymous, I'm not sure why you keep posting comments stating that the job I am doing is Money Laundering, part of a Rico scheme or illegal. I'm responding to each of your nonsensical comments -- as your comments are totally unfounded and I don't want people to get the wrong impression.
My suspicions have more to do with my INNER CONFIDENCE rather that some RICO crime you have imagined.
Again, stating for the record. For this project we are working with the government and there's a compliance manager on staff. Everything is done above board - as far as I can tell. Yes, I've had to run things through compliance; and others have had to run things through compliance before I receive the documents. In terms of documents and access, this is a very regulated company.
Could I be wrong? Sure. And if I am, I'm happy to come back here to state that "Anonymous" on the Internet was right!
Ultimately, I know way more about the situation than you. Your opinion is bolstered by the limited info you have and an overactive imagination. I'm guessing you are a true crime fan? Girl, so am I but this isn't a crime situation. The project is run in collaboration with government officials, a compliance manager and I've lost count of the number of attorneys on the project. What I do know is that this project ends in October.
There are a group of us working on the same project. Everyone doing my type of work has an MBA or is a licensed attorney. Why do they need attorneys and MBAs to copy and paste? I don't know other than part 2 of the job requires analysis and audit determinations based on the data that was copied.
Yes, the boss is in the USA, he is a licensed attorney in good standing-- I checked with the state bar – He owns multiple businesses. He seems to favor empowerment, diversity, flex-time and good working conditions. Normally, when I get a job I get one of those things -- Not all of them + the money.
I guess I have imposter syndrome.
So you can continue to believe that this is a RICO case and that I'm going to prison, but I think that sounds foolish given the additional facts I've supplied.
I respectfully ask that you stop repeating this assertion. It is untrue and not based in fact.
Respectfully,
$140/hr Anonymous woman
AnonymousJuly 10,2024 at 2:08PM UTC
You must know that they're billing someone for that time too. It sounds like a high level of business when it's involving mergers and acquisitions, so that is not a cheap process. Doesn't sound a bit outdated on the ask, but hey. Too bad, they just don't take out the taxes, make sure you know what you have to set aside in that tax bracket, which I'm confident this is not a new thought.
Danielle CastilloJuly 10,2024 at 3:26PM UTC
If the check clears and you are receiving the money, I would say it's legit.
Could you share the name of this company? I could really use $140/hour as well. I'm desperate for a job at this point.
AnonymousJuly 12,2024 at 5:31PM UTC
What! Checks clearing doesn't mean it's legit! It's called MONEY LAUNDERING!! And it's ILLEGAL. There's a 99.9% chance she is cooking the books and part of a RICO scheme! Ignorance is not bliss. You want to go to federal prison with her?
AnonymousJuly 14,2024 at 3:57PM UTC
OP here: Anonymous, I'm not sure why you keep posting comments stating that the job I am doing is Money Laundering, part of a Rico scheme or illegal. I'm responding to each of your nonsensical comments -- as your comments are totally unfounded and I don't want people to get the wrong impression.
My suspicions have more to do with my INNER CONFIDENCE rather that some RICO crime you have imagined.
(Even if the project I'm on is fraud -- which is is not -- we are working directly with the state. The state would have jurisdiction. It would be an issue for the state. Claims about me going to federal prison are simply from the mind of a fantasist! )
Again, stating for the record. For this project we are working with the government and there's a compliance manager on staff. Everything is done above board - as far as I can tell. Yes, I've had to run things through compliance; and others have had to run things through compliance before I receive the documents. In terms of documents and access, this is a very regulated company.
Could I be wrong? Sure. And if I am, I'm happy to come back here to state that "Anonymous" on the Internet was right!
Ultimately, I know way more about the situation than you. Your opinion is bolstered by the limited info you have and an overactive imagination. I'm guessing you are a true crime fan? Girl, so am I but this isn't a crime situation. The project is run in collaboration with government officials, a compliance manager and I've lost count of the number of attorneys on the project. What I do know is that this project ends in October.
There are a group of us working on the same project. Everyone doing my type of work has an MBA or is a licensed attorney. Why do they need attorneys and MBAs to copy and paste? I don't know other than part 2 of the job requires analysis and audit determinations based on the data that was copied.
Yes, the boss is in the USA, he is a licensed attorney in good standing-- I checked with the state bar – He owns multiple businesses. He seems to favor empowerment, diversity, flex-time and good working conditions. Normally, when I get a job I get one of those things -- Not all of them + the money.
I guess I have imposter syndrome.
So you can continue to believe that this is a RICO case and that I'm going to prison, but I think that sounds foolish given the additional facts I've supplied.
I respectfully ask that you stop repeating this assertion. It is untrue and not based in fact.
Respectfully,
$140/hr Anonymous woman
LisaJuly 10,2024 at 3:34PM UTC
Take the good while you can. I'm curious... what's the company?!?!!
AnonymousJuly 12,2024 at 5:31PM UTC
Stay far away from that mess! There's a 99.9% chance she is cooking the books and part of a RICO scheme! Ignorance is not bliss. You want to go to federal prison with her?
AnonymousJuly 14,2024 at 3:48PM UTC
OP here: You've posted numerous comments about there being a 99.9% chance of cooking the books or it being a Rico scheme. I'm not sure why you keep posting this? I'm responding to each of your comments -- as your comments are totally unfounded and I don't want people to get the wrong impression.
My suspicions have more to do with my INNER CONFIDENCE rather that some RICO crime you have imagined.
Again, stating for the record. For this project we are working with the government and there's a compliance manager on staff. Everything is done above board - as far as I can tell. Yes, I've had to run things through compliance; and others have had to run things through compliance before I receive the documents. In terms of documents and access, this is a very regulated company.
Could I be wrong? Sure. And if I am, I'm happy to come back here to state that "Anonymous" on the Internet was right!
Ultimately, I know way more about the situation than you. Your opinion is bolstered by the limited info you have and an overactive imagination. I'm guessing you are a true crime fan? Girl, so am I but this isn't a crime situation. The project is run in collaboration with government officials, a compliance manager and I've lost count of the number of attorneys on the project. What I do know is that this project ends in October.
There are a group of us working on the same project. Everyone doing my type of work has an MBA or is a licensed attorney. Why do they need attorneys and MBAs to copy and paste? I don't know other than part 2 of the job requires analysis and audit determinations based on the data that was copied.
Yes, the boss is in the USA, he is a licensed attorney in good standing-- I checked with the state bar – He owns multiple businesses. He seems to favor empowerment, diversity, flex-time and good working conditions. Normally, when I get a job I get one of those things -- Not all of them + the money.
I guess I have imposter syndrome.
So you can continue to believe that this is a RICO case and that I'm going to prison, but I think that sounds foolish given the additional facts I've supplied.
I respectfully ask that you stop repeating this assertion. It is untrue and not based in fact.
Respectfully,
$140/hr Anonymous woman
AnonymousJuly 10,2024 at 4:15PM UTC
Can you share the place? I could use $140 a DAY much less an hour. Thanks
AnonymousJuly 12,2024 at 12:33PM UTC
hahaha, right?!
AnonymousJuly 12,2024 at 5:30PM UTC
There's a 99.9% chance she is cooking the books and part of a RICO scheme! Ignorance is not bliss. You want to go to federal prison with her?
AnonymousJuly 14,2024 at 3:45PM UTC
OP here: You've posted numerous comments about there being a 99.95 chance of cooking the books or it being a Rico scheme. II'm not sure why you keep posting this? m responding to each of your comments -- as your comments are totally unfounded and I don't want people to get the wrong impression.
My suspicions have more to do with my inner confidence rather that some RICO crime you have imagined.
Again, stating for the record. For this project we are working with the government and there's a compliance manager on staff. Everything is done above board - as far as I can tell. Yes, I've had to run things through compliance; and others have had to run things through compliance before I receive the documents. In terms of documents and access, this is a very regulated company.
Could I be wrong? Sure. And if I am, I'm happy to come back here to state that "Anonymous" on the Internet was right! L
Ultimately, I know way more about the situation than you. Your opinion is bolstered by the limited info you have and an overactive imagination. I'm guessing you are a true crime fan? Girl, so am I but this isn't a crime situation. The project is run in collaboration with government officials, a compliance manager and I've lost count of the number of attorneys on the project. What I do know is that this project ends in October.
There are a group of us working on the same project. Everyone doing my type of work has an MBA or is a licensed attorney. Why do they need attorneys and MBAs to copy and paste? I don't know other than part 2 of the job requires analysis and audit determinations based on the data that was copied.
Yes, the boss is in the USA, he is a licensed attorney in good standing-- I checked with the state bar – He owns multiple businesses. He seems to favor empowerment, diversity, flex-time and good working conditions. Normally, when I get a job I get one of those things -- Not all of them + the money.
I guess I have imposter syndrome.
So you can continue to believe that this is a RICO case and that I'm going to prison, but I think that sounds foolish given the additional facts I've supplied.
Please stop the craziness.
SophJuly 10,2024 at 9:36PM UTC
1099 employees should be paid more hourly than regular employees because they have more out of pocket expenses, and $55/hr sounds super low given your background, so you probably are closer now to where you should have been. Also, maybe the CEO wants to bring you in as a w-2 employee, but this may be a trial run and he or she doesn't want you to miss out on what a regular employee would receive.
AnonymousJuly 14,2024 at 3:37PM UTC
OP here: My sense is that the CEO wants me to sit the next bar exam so that he can bring me on as an attorney (and charge me out at a higher rate). At that point, I think there would be a slight increase in rate, but not much. All of this is just a hunch. Nothing concrete.
Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition SpecialistJuly 11,2024 at 2:49AM UTC
You're doing the work, you're getting paid, the checks are clearing. What, specifically, are you suspicious about?
Do they seem happy with your work? If you're doing good work, I don't see any indication you're "going to screw it up".
Doing a good job is something entirely within your power. Maybe schedule regular one-on-ones with your supervisor to check in and make sure you're on track and see if there's any room for improvement.
Instead of being suspicious, I'd recommend you considering learning how to wrap your head around getting comfortable with something good happening for you.
It sounds like you've been working toward this for a long time. You should be able to see it as all your hard work paying off for you.
Learn to appreciate and enjoy your success - do the work, save money for your taxes and a rainy day and enjoy!
It's nice when good things happen to good people.
AnonymousJuly 12,2024 at 5:30PM UTC
She's suspicious because her gut knows something is not quite right! She should listen to her gut and not get deceived because of the pay! No money is worth the risk of going to federal prison and she can't claim ignorance! There's a 99.9% chance she is cooking the books and part of a RICO scheme!
Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition SpecialistJuly 14,2024 at 12:12AM UTC
Except no. See the OP's comment above.
AnonymousJuly 14,2024 at 3:41PM UTC
Thank you for your supportive words, Joan.
Yes, I have been at this for a long time. I turn 45 next month. I went to law school and business school at night whilst raising 4 kids so it hasn't been easy. Everything has been a struggle and this is the first time -- in years -- that something has come "easy" to me. So that's the reason for my suspicions.
You're right. I need to wrap my head around getting comfortable to something good happening to me.
Thank you once again for your wisdom and kind words.
AnonymousJuly 11,2024 at 10:25AM UTC
That is fabulous money! I understand your suspicion—I'd feel it's too good to be true; however, go with it. If you want, compare what others make in that role on Glassdoor, etc., to see if that is around the correct payment for a freelancer in that role. (Remember you are technically paying all benefits, vacations, sick time, especially healthcare, etc., because they don't provide that.)
Realistically, you're experienced. I'm in my early 50s and charge $100 for freelance work, but usually, a 40-hour-a-week freelance gig will talk me down.
Then, if you haven't already, I'd suggest getting on a budget and putting yourself into the position of having six months of savings. I have not been able to do this, but I am a few months ahead of today. I suggest using YNAB (You Need A Budget). You're smart, so you'll pick it up quickly.
If you're set — woo hoo! I might be projecting a bit bc I can hear your pain with not having money. ?
I think once I looked at it that way and saw what that money does, I'd become "budget poor" because I saw how I would need and deserve all of that pay.
Good Luck!
AnonymousJuly 11,2024 at 12:48PM UTC
Are they looking for more? I’d find a few hours to spare for that kind of money!! ?
AnonymousJuly 12,2024 at 5:24PM UTC
There's a 99.9% chance she is cooking the books and part of a RICO scheme! Ignorance is not bliss. You want to go to federal prison with her?
AnonymousJuly 14,2024 at 4:00PM UTC
OP here: Anonymous, I'm not sure why you keep posting comments stating that the job I am doing is Money Laundering, part of a Rico scheme or illegal. I'm responding to each of your nonsensical comments -- as your comments are totally unfounded and I don't want people to get the wrong impression.
My suspicions have more to do with my INNER CONFIDENCE rather that some RICO crime you have imagined.
Again, stating for the record. For this project we are working with the government and there's a compliance manager on staff. Everything is done above board - as far as I can tell. Yes, I've had to run things through compliance; and others have had to run things through compliance before I receive the documents. In terms of documents and access, this is a very regulated company.
Could I be wrong? Sure. And if I am, I'm happy to come back here to state that "Anonymous" on the Internet was right!
Ultimately, I know way more about the situation than you. Your opinion is bolstered by the limited info you have and an overactive imagination. I'm guessing you are a true crime fan? Girl, so am I but this isn't a crime situation. The project is run in collaboration with government officials, a compliance manager and I've lost count of the number of attorneys on the project. What I do know is that this project ends in October.
There are a group of us working on the same project. Everyone doing my type of work has an MBA or is a licensed attorney. Why do they need attorneys and MBAs to copy and paste? I don't know other than part 2 of the job requires analysis and audit determinations based on the data that was copied.
Yes, the boss is in the USA, he is a licensed attorney in good standing-- I checked with the state bar – He owns multiple businesses. He seems to favor empowerment, diversity, flex-time and good working conditions. Normally, when I get a job I get one of those things -- Not all of them + the money.
I guess I have imposter syndrome.
So you can continue to believe that this is a RICO case and that I'm going to prison, but I think that sounds foolish given the additional facts I've supplied.
I respectfully ask that you stop repeating this assertion. It is untrue and not based in fact.
Respectfully,
$140/hr Anonymous woman
AnonymousJuly 14,2024 at 10:34PM UTC
To be fair, there was no mention of business school being for an mba or the fact that you have a jd.
Congrats on that kind of money. I can’t get that as an engineer so without all the facts, it sounded suspicious.
If it was really just copy and paste I’d find a few hours. But i wouldn’t leave the position I have to work on 1099. Benefits add up. I do hope you find a just as good position when this project ends.
AnonymousJuly 11,2024 at 12:54PM UTC
As somebody else said, you should be getting more as a 1099 employee. You’re responsible for your own insurance, unemployment tax, 401k, etc., so it has to be worth it. $55 is super low and would have been a steal for them.
Make sure you’re saving a chunk of money for taxes and if you make over a certain amount, you’re supposed to file estimated taxes quarterly.
AnonymousJuly 11,2024 at 1:04PM UTC
Just want to say I’m so happy you found this and wishing you all the very best to keep going. This is the ultimate dream for me. I’m at $55/hr 1099 now but doing so much for my client, also fall into the 40’s category with kids and really need flexibility but perhaps above all, an understanding team that isn’t expecting you to scale up so quickly. It sounds like they want you to know your skill sets will be put to use but no need to rush in all at once. This all sounds so refreshing and I wish something like this would happen to me. Love these stories - gives us hope!
GirlBossanova934974July 11,2024 at 1:07PM UTC
2 things come right to mind. You are on contract. How long does this contract last? Have you asked? Second, you better be putting money into ESTIMATED taxes and SOCIAL SECURITY on a quarterly basis. You are liable for 15% of your pay to go to Social Security and Medicare + probably 25-30% more for Federal and State tax withholding. Once you throw those percentages in, your pay is going down by probably 40-50% and you need to pay it OR you are looking at BIG penalties.
AnonymousJuly 14,2024 at 4:00PM UTC
OP here: Job ends in October
GirlBossanova934974July 14,2024 at 5:08PM UTC
That makes sense!
Please keep these dates in mind for estimated taxes:
The dates on the left are the income periods and
the dates on the right are the estimated tax due dates.
SSI, Medicare, Federal, and State taxes are payable on those
estimated tax due dates. Failure to pay or pay on time can
result in material late filing penalties.
January 1 – March 31, 2024| April 15, 2024
April 1 – May 31, 2024| June 17, 2024
June 1 – August 31, 2024| September 16, 2024
September 1 – December 31, 2024| January 15, 2025
Doris NwanneJuly 12,2024 at 12:22PM UTC
No need to stress yourself since it is a contract job. You can easily resign
AnonymousJuly 12,2024 at 5:23PM UTC
Yes, she can easily resign BUT she cannot RESIGN from going to PRISON!
AnonymousJuly 14,2024 at 3:32PM UTC
OP here: You are insinuating that I am committing a crime, will be charged, found guilty and will be sent to prison. But what is this based on?
You've posted numerous comments about there being a 99.95 chance of cooking the books or it being a Rico scheme. I'm responding to each of your comments -- as they are totally unfounded.
For this project we are working with the government and there's a compliance manager on staff. Everything is done above board - as far as I can tell. Could I be wrong? Sure. And if I am, I'm happy to come back here to state that Random Anonymous Lady in the Internet was right!
Ultimately, I know way more about the situation than you. Saying that there is a 99.9% chance that this is a RICO scheme is far-fetched and bolstered by the limited info you have and an overactive imagination. I'm guessing you are a true crime fan? Girl, so am I but this isn't a crime situation. The project is run in collaboration with government officials, a compliance manager and I've lost count of the number of attorneys on the project. What I do know is that this project ends in October.
I am being paid the rate that they pay their attorneys, but I'm not an attorney, though I do have a JD and an MBA. I guess for the longest time I've been grinding hard at jobs that pay significantly lower. Making substantially more money (even tho that was the goal of business school) feels unreal. This sort of thing happens to other people.... not me.
AnonymousJuly 12,2024 at 12:32PM UTC
Sounds like you’ve gotten great feedback thus far! Do you mind sharing the freelance website? I would love to do this. Work from home and make my own hours. That is an incredible pay rate, and depending on the area you live in (such as mine in the south) even after taxes that is
EXCELLENT!! Don’t doubt yourself. Do what you know to do as long as you can do this job, out the money away, work a lot, and if something does happen you’ll be prepared! And IF something happens, it was not meant to be but just for a season.
AnonymousJuly 12,2024 at 5:22PM UTC
There's a 99.9% chance she is cooking the books and part of a RICO scheme! Ignorance is not bliss. You want to go to federal prison with her? I have found every last one of those admin, just copy and paste fraud jobs posted on some of these job boards like CareerBuilder are either scams, frauds or illegal activity in some way! Monster has been bad for decades but now they have moved over to CareerBuilder and have gotten more and more savvy. I've had at least 20 of those type of companies reach out and every last one of them were doing frauds! I reported this to CareerBuilder and deleted my profile but some still trickle in at times until I tell call them out! NO ONE is paying anyone $40+ an hour to only copy and paste! That's a $15 to maybe $20/hr job at the most, plus, if it's copying and pasting only that's very suspect! What exactly are you copying and pasting? And are the employer sitting in another country? If they are you go to jail but not them because it's difficult for our government to bring foreign nationals who are not in the US to justice! Beware!
AnonymousJuly 14,2024 at 2:25PM UTC
OP here: LOL, I love how hilariously delusional your comment is. Funny that you posted this comment about 20 times -- as if once or twice wasn't enough.
There is a 99.9% chance that you don't know what you are talking about. For this project we are working with the government and there's a compliance manager on staff. Everything is done above board - as far as I can tell. Could I be wrong? Sure. And if I am, I'm happy to come back here to state that Random Anonymous Lady in the Internet was right!
Ultimately, I know way more about the situation than you. Saying that there is a 99.9% chance that this is a RICO scheme is hyperbole bolstered by the limited info you have and an overactive imagination. I'm guessing you are a true crime fan? Girl, so am I but this isn't a crime situation. The project is run in collaboration with government officials, a compliance manager and I've lost count of the number of attorneys on the project. What I do know is that this project ends in October.
I am being paid the rate that they pay their attorneys, but I'm not an attorney, though I do have a JD and an MBA. I guess for the longest time I've been grinding hard at jobs that pay significantly lower. Making substantially more money (even tho that was the goal of business school) feels unreal. This sort of thing happens to other people.... not me.
KathleenJuly 12,2024 at 12:38PM UTC
Enjoy thw ride and a CEO who is all about empowerment! I can't help but think that there is a reason he is paying you more than you asked for.
AnonymousJuly 12,2024 at 5:17PM UTC
There's a 99.9% chance she is cooking the books and part of a RICO scheme! Ignorance is not bliss. And there IS a reason someone would pay THAT MUCH MORE than you asked for especially in this economy! It's ILLEGAL!
AnonymousJuly 14,2024 at 3:59PM UTC
OP here: Anonymous, I'm not sure why you keep posting comments stating that the job I am doing is Money Laundering, part of a Rico scheme or illegal. I'm responding to each of your nonsensical comments -- as your comments are totally unfounded and I don't want people to get the wrong impression.
My suspicions have more to do with my INNER CONFIDENCE rather that some RICO crime you have imagined.
Again, stating for the record. For this project we are working with the government and there's a compliance manager on staff. Everything is done above board - as far as I can tell. Yes, I've had to run things through compliance; and others have had to run things through compliance before I receive the documents. In terms of documents and access, this is a very regulated company.
Could I be wrong? Sure. And if I am, I'm happy to come back here to state that "Anonymous" on the Internet was right!
Ultimately, I know way more about the situation than you. Your opinion is bolstered by the limited info you have and an overactive imagination. I'm guessing you are a true crime fan? Girl, so am I but this isn't a crime situation. The project is run in collaboration with government officials, a compliance manager and I've lost count of the number of attorneys on the project. What I do know is that this project ends in October.
There are a group of us working on the same project. Everyone doing my type of work has an MBA or is a licensed attorney. Why do they need attorneys and MBAs to copy and paste? I don't know other than part 2 of the job requires analysis and audit determinations based on the data that was copied.
Yes, the boss is in the USA, he is a licensed attorney in good standing-- I checked with the state bar – He owns multiple businesses. He seems to favor empowerment, diversity, flex-time and good working conditions. Normally, when I get a job I get one of those things -- Not all of them + the money.
I guess I have imposter syndrome.
So you can continue to believe that this is a RICO case and that I'm going to prison, but I think that sounds foolish given the additional facts I've supplied.
I respectfully ask that you stop repeating this assertion. It is untrue and not based in fact.
Respectfully,
$140/hr Anonymous woman
AnonymousJuly 14,2024 at 2:18PM UTC
OP here: The CEO is totally about empowerment, diversity, flex-time, good working conditions, looking after our mental health. I am in awe and I guess I've worked for so many sh*tty companies that I am now in disbelief. I am being paid the same rate as the attorneys (or at least a rate in line with the attorneys. It wouldn't surprise me if they are making more) but I am not an attorney -- though I have a JD.
AnonymousJuly 12,2024 at 12:45PM UTC
What company is this, I need a job.
AnonymousJuly 12,2024 at 5:16PM UTC
There's a 99.9% chance she is cooking the books and part of a RICO scheme! Ignorance is not bliss. You want to go to federal prison with her?
AnonymousJuly 14,2024 at 3:29PM UTC
Dear Anonymous,
OP here: You've posted numerous comments about there being a 99.95 chance of cooking the books or it being a Rico scheme. I'm responding to each of your comments -- as they are totally unfounded.
There is a 99.9% chance that you don't know what you are talking about. For this project we are working with the government and there's a compliance manager on staff. Everything is done above board - as far as I can tell. Could I be wrong? Sure. And if I am, I'm happy to come back here to state that Random Anonymous Lady in the Internet was right!
Ultimately, I know way more about the situation than you. Saying that there is a 99.9% chance that this is a RICO scheme is far-fetched and bolstered by the limited info you have and an overactive imagination. I'm guessing you are a true crime fan? Girl, so am I but this isn't a crime situation. The project is run in collaboration with government officials, a compliance manager and I've lost count of the number of attorneys on the project. What I do know is that this project ends in October.
I am being paid the rate that they pay their attorneys, but I'm not an attorney, though I do have a JD and an MBA. I guess for the longest time I've been grinding hard at jobs that pay significantly lower. Making substantially more money (even tho that was the goal of business school) feels unreal. This sort of thing happens to other people.... not me.
AnonymousJuly 12,2024 at 12:48PM UTC
Like others said, just run with it. It is somewhat logical that assuming being in your mid-40s, you have years of experience & now an MBA & COLA, your rate seems To be on par. The work seems easy peasy for now for the rate, however keep in mind you are contract. To be on the safe side, save money as much as you can to pay the taxes and for emergency money. Even put some on HYSA or CD to earn some extra.
AnonymousJuly 12,2024 at 5:15PM UTC
There's a 99.9% chance she is cooking the books and part of a RICO scheme! Ignorance is not bliss and can't be used as a defense.
AnonymousJuly 14,2024 at 3:28PM UTC
OP here: You've posted numerous comments about there being a 99.95 chance of cooking the books or it being a Rico scheme. I'm responding to each of your comments -- as they are totally unfounded.
There is a 99.9% chance that you don't know what you are talking about. For this project we are working with the government and there's a compliance manager on staff. Everything is done above board - as far as I can tell. Could I be wrong? Sure. And if I am, I'm happy to come back here to state that Random Anonymous Lady in the Internet was right!
Ultimately, I know way more about the situation than you. Saying that there is a 99.9% chance that this is a RICO scheme is hyperbole bolstered by the limited info you have and an overactive imagination. I'm guessing you are a true crime fan? Girl, so am I but this isn't a crime situation. The project is run in collaboration with government officials, a compliance manager and I've lost count of the number of attorneys on the project. What I do know is that this project ends in October.
I am being paid the rate that they pay their attorneys, but I'm not an attorney, though I do have a JD and an MBA. I guess for the longest time I've been grinding hard at jobs that pay significantly lower. Making substantially more money (even tho that was the goal of business school) feels unreal. This sort of thing happens to other people.... not me.
AnonymousJuly 12,2024 at 12:49PM UTC
me too if you do not mind sharing a link, not necessarily where you work, but how you stumbled upon the freelance work. I am very happy for you.
AnonymousJuly 12,2024 at 5:00PM UTC
There's a 99.9% chance she is cooking the books and part of a RICO scheme! Ignorance is not bliss. You want to go to federal prison with her?
AnonymousJuly 14,2024 at 3:06PM UTC
There is a 99.9% chance that you don't know what you are talking about. For this project we are working with the government and there's a compliance manager on staff. Everything is done above board - as far as I can tell. Could I be wrong? Sure. And if I am, I'm happy to come back here to state that Random Anonymous Lady in the Internet was right! Ultimately, I know way more about the situation than you. Saying 99.9% chance that this is a RICO scheme is far-fetched.
I am being paid the rate that (I think is close to if not somewhat less than) they pay their attorneys, but I'm not an attorney, though I do have a JD and an MBA. I guess for the longest time I've been grinding hard at jobs that pay significantly lower. Making substantially more money (even tho that was the goal of business school) feels unreal. On top of that we have really good working conditions and a boss that cares about empowerment and our well being. This is new to me. This sort of thing happens to other people.... not me.
Marelise CulbertJuly 12,2024 at 1:31PM UTC
Wow, so happy for you. This is not a common story. AT ALL. If you ever need someone to help you - please let me know. It sounds like a life-changing experience.
AnonymousJuly 12,2024 at 5:00PM UTC
There's a 99.9% chance she is cooking the books and part of a RICO scheme! Ignorance is not bliss. You want to go to federal prison with her?
AnonymousJuly 14,2024 at 3:04PM UTC
There is a 99.9% chance that you don't know what you are talking about. For this project we are working with the government and there's a compliance manager on staff. Everything is done above board - as far as I can tell. Could I be wrong? Sure. And if I am, I'm happy to come back here to state that Random Anonymous Lady in the Internet was right! Ultimately, I know way more about the situation than you, so how you can say there's a 99.9% chance that this is a RICO scheme is hyperbole.
I am being paid the rate that (I think is close to if not somewhat less than) they pay their attorneys, but I'm not an attorney, though I do have a JD and an MBA. I guess for the longest time I've been grinding hard at jobs that pay significantly lower. Making substantially more money (even tho that was the goal of business school) feels unreal. On top of that we have really good working conditions and a boss that cares about empowerment and our well being. This is new to me. This sort of thing happens to other people.... not me.
AnonymousJuly 14,2024 at 3:26PM UTC
Thank you, Marelise!
AnonymousJuly 12,2024 at 1:31PM UTC
Go with it! You are blessed to have a job with little stress, making great money, opportunity to spend time with your children, work from home, and help your husband. Making your own hours and working with a company where people are nice, is a plus. I get what you are saying, but for now enjoy and be thankful!
AnonymousJuly 12,2024 at 5:01PM UTC
There's a 99.9% chance she is cooking the books and part of a RICO scheme! Ignorance is not bliss. You want to go to federal prison with her?
AnonymousJuly 14,2024 at 4:12AM UTC
She said that is not the case.
AnonymousJuly 14,2024 at 3:00PM UTC
OP here: Correct that is not the case.
AnonymousJuly 14,2024 at 3:02PM UTC
OP here: I think you're wrong and exaggerating.
For this project we are working with the government and there's a compliance manager on staff. Everything is done above board - as far as I can tell. Could I be wrong? Sure. And if I am, I'm happy to come back here to state that Random Anonymous Lady in the Internet was right! Ultimately, I know way more about the situation than you, so how you can say there's a 99.9% chance that this is a RICO scheme is hyperbole.I am being paid the rate that (I think is close to if now somewhat less than) they pay their attorneys, but I'm not an attorney, though I do have a JD and an MBA. I guess for the longest time I've been grinding hard at jobs that pay significantly lower. Making substantially more money (even tho that was the goal of business school) feels unreal. This sort of thing happens to other people.... not me.
AnonymousJuly 12,2024 at 1:42PM UTC
Please share the name of the company. Thank you.
AnonymousJuly 12,2024 at 5:01PM UTC
There's a 99.9% chance she is cooking the books and part of a RICO scheme! Ignorance is not bliss. You want to go to federal prison with her?
AnonymousJuly 14,2024 at 3:25PM UTC
OP here: I believe your assumption is thoroughly incorrect.
For this project we are working with the government and there's a compliance manager on staff. Everything is done above board - as far as I can tell. Could I be wrong? Sure. And if I am, I'm happy to come back here to state that Random Anonymous Lady in the Internet was right!
Ultimately, I know way more about the situation than you. Saying that there is a 99.9% chance that this is a RICO scheme is an exaggeration bolstered by the limited info you have and an overactive imagination. I'm guessing you are a true crime fan? Girl, so am I but this isn't a crime situation. The project is run in collaboration with government officials, a compliance manager and I've lost count of the number of attorneys on the project. What I do know is that this project ends in October.
I am being paid the rate that they pay their attorneys, but I'm not an attorney, though I do have a JD and an MBA. I guess for the longest time I've been grinding hard at jobs that pay significantly lower. Making substantially more money (even tho that was the goal of business school) feels unreal. This sort of thing happens to other people.... not me.
AnonymousJuly 14,2024 at 2:56PM UTC
OP here. I am gatekeeping this information for obvious reasons. I will share with my network from B School. I will say that the CEO posts for admin help on Fiverr. Not sure that anything is posted now, but have a look. The company is hiring MBAs and attorneys for a project-based role like mine but this role is not on Fiverr. I might have seen something on Glassdoor. Can't remember tho. The job ends in October. You need have an MBA or be a licensed attorney for this work. (I don't know why that's their requirement, it just is)
AnonymousJuly 12,2024 at 1:54PM UTC
Take the money and the job and just run with it! Good for you! If it appears above board, trust that it is and you are in the right place.
AnonymousJuly 12,2024 at 5:14PM UTC
No, this is really BAD for her...unless she doesn't mind going to federal prison. There's a 99.9% chance she is cooking the books and part of a RICO scheme! Ignorance is not bliss.
AnonymousJuly 14,2024 at 2:51PM UTC
OP here:
You are jumping to conclusions without knowledge of the pertinent facts. Your claim of"Federal prison" sounds far-fecthed since we are working WITH the state on the project. But even if there is a chance that this is some sort of fraudulent activity, the state has jurisdiction rather than the federal government; thus no "federal prison."
Lisa MarieJuly 12,2024 at 2:10PM UTC
You actually SEE and READ the information you are just "copying and pasting"
Does any of it seem illicit? Is it deceitful information?
You should be able to read and understand what you are copying and pasting" and you should in good conscience know if you are helping in a fraud scheme.
If you find that you are helping in a fraud scheme, you NEED to find another job and cut ties with that company ASAP... BEFORE they start blackmailing YOU / HOLDING your actions "just copy and paste" over your head.
Take a loom at what you're doing with a honest ser of eyes, and truly read into every word you are "copy and pasting."
Your. Conscience. Is. Uneasy. For. A. Reason.... some people call it "gut feeling."
Listen.
NatashaJuly 12,2024 at 5:06PM UTC
Seems like she's being working there longer than a day so if they are violating the federal RICO statute she's already implicated! Taking screenshots doesn't dissolve liability for participation even if tricked or deceived into. The only thing she can do use those screenshots and report them to the DOJ and ask for protection under the federal whistleblower statute! Her gut has already told her what she is doing is probably illegal! Be smart, people! The crooks are getting smarter and tricking people into helping them commit crimes and when they get caught and sent to prison, you go with them!
AnonymousJuly 14,2024 at 1:35PM UTC
OP here:
You said, "You actually SEE and READ the information you are just "copying and pasting""
Yes, correct. I look through various documents (up to 100 docs) and pull out relavent info for the spreadsheet. Then I paste it in the correct sections.
You asked "Does any of it seem illicit? Is it deceitful information?"
No, none of it is illicit. It is very ordinary information. Some of it is government info. We are working with the state's attorney. It's not illicit nor illegal.
You said, "You should be able to read and understand what you are copying and pasting"
I understand most of it. There are some acronyms I'm still learning, but the content itself is not illicit or controversial. For some parts I don't understand, I've been able to speak to my mother about it -- as she worked in the same industry. She provided me with books and notes to assist.
Ultimately the thing I am working on is determining which areas of which companies require financial audits and the depth of the audits. Before the determination of the audits begin, I need to compile the information - which is currently in a number of documents. I am now compiling information from various documents - this requires copy and pasting. So that's what I'm being paid to do now.
Lisa MarieJuly 12,2024 at 2:16PM UTC
Exactly. Spidey Senses Up!
I think she feels a tingling somewhere.
AnonymousJuly 12,2024 at 5:28PM UTC
There's a 99.9% chance she is cooking the books and part of a RICO scheme!
AnonymousJuly 14,2024 at 3:16PM UTC
OP here: I feel like I've seen this comment before....
There is a 99.9% chance that you don't know what you are talking about. For this project we are working with the government and there's a compliance manager on staff. Everything is done above board - as far as I can tell. Could I be wrong? Sure. And if I am, I'm happy to come back here to state that Random Anonymous Lady in the Internet was right!
Rachelle MorganJuly 12,2024 at 2:35PM UTC
Ummm - I want in!
NatashaJuly 12,2024 at 4:52PM UTC
You want to go to federal prison with her? It sounds like she has been roped into a layering scheme and cooking some books! That's illegal. If you help people to falsify records you go to prison with them, whether you knew what you were doing or not. In the law there's a term called, Ignorantia juris non excusat (ignorance of law excuses no one). This legal principle is actually globally recognized and states that a person who is unaware of a law may not escape liability for violating that law merely by being unaware of its content! I am not a lawyer but a forensic accountant and global fraud examiner but I work a lot with legal and compliance teams across the globe and I believe they have this in the law to hold people accountable for their actions because when the crooks are caught they all can claim they didn't know what they were doing was illegal to try to justify their action and use it as a defense to get away with conducting illegal activity. So, we all have that gut instinct and when your gut says, it's too good to be true...replace that with, it's too good to be LEGAL because often times it is not! #staysafe
AnonymousJuly 14,2024 at 2:46PM UTC
OP here:
For this project we are working with the government and there's a compliance manager on staff. Everything is done above board - as far as I can tell. Yes, I've had to run things through compliance; and others have had to run things through compliance before I receive the documents. In terms of documents and access, this is a very regulated company.
Could I be wrong? Sure. And if I am, I'm happy to come back here to state that "Natasha" on the Internet was right! The project ends in October, so I should have more info then.
You're not a lawyer. Neither am I, but I did go to law school (but did not take the bar) and business school. So throwing out latin legal doctrine with the hope you're going to impress or convince doesn't fly with me; as my JD could out-doctrine you if need be.
"Federal prison" sounds farcical since we are working with the state on the project. Even if it wasn't above board, the state would have jurisdiction here thus no "federal prison."
Ultimately, I know way more about the situation than you. Your opinion is bolstered by the limited info you have and an overactive imagination. I'm guessing you are a true crime fan? Girl, so am I but this isn't a crime situation. The project is run in collaboration with government officials, a compliance manager and I've lost count of the number of attorneys on the project. What I do know is that this project ends in October.
I am being paid a rate in line to what they pay the attorneys who are doing the same work.
I guess for the longest time I've been grinding hard at jobs that pay significantly lower. Making substantially more money (even tho that was the goal of business school) feels unreal. This sort of thing happens to other people.... not me.
AnonymousJuly 14,2024 at 1:34PM UTC
I think they are only hiring MBAs, JDs, or licensed attorneys. But if that's you I would check Fiverr. They sometimes post for admin work. I was hired directly by the CEO for the initial Fiverr job. So take a look on there.
AnonymousJuly 12,2024 at 2:54PM UTC
Brag much?
Just kidding. A lot of people who worked in administrative roles or in skilled labor jobs think everyone making 6-figures is working 80 hours/week, glued to a desk busting their butts. Truthfully, a significant amount of highly paid jobs are not well paid because you’re worked to the bone, it’s that your expertise & experience are valuable. Also, sometimes you’re paid to be responsible for certain aspects of a project or department. You’re highly compensated to ensure things go well, but you’re also going to have to take the blame if anything doesn’t go right. And everyone does their part to make sure the company runs and the CEO is happy. You went to B-school to have a high paying job. You have it! Keep learning, make sure you know what the company does (and nothing nefarious is taking place) and learn about what everyone else does. Use the xtra cash to build your savings & start investing your money. Get a financial planner and use this newfound windfall to secure your future.
Erin-Kate WhitcombJuly 12,2024 at 4:19PM UTC
Someone already mentioned the responsibility of having a 1099 contract and paying all of your own benefits, taxes, etc. If you look at it from the employer's point of view, they are NOT paying any of those things and can cut you loose at any time. I'm not usually a skeptical person, but the thing I would consider is how many other people are working for this company who are not actually employees? This is a slippery slope and if it's true, it means the CEO is keeping a whole lot of money, not paying FTE wages or paying tax himself. Take it while you've got it, but I'd keep looking.
Also, hiring companies are not allowed to take you on directly if he/they found you on a sit like Fiverr or Upwork. If you are hired outside of the site, this is a breach of the terms of service with them, as they do not allow you to communicate outside of that site, or your account will be suspended/revoked, AND you could face legal action. Freelance work sites have particular agreements with freelancers and the hiring companies about this, noting that if you go direct with a hiring company that you met through the site, you need to pay the site something like 20% of the employee's first year salary in one payment. In this case, it would likely be 20% of your hourly rate, since you are still being paid 1099 without giving a piece of the pie to the site you used to meet this employer.
Just things to consider. Until the other shoe drops (and hopefully you just found a nutty professor with a heart of gold), enjoy the money and be sure to pay your quarterly taxes!
AnonymousJuly 12,2024 at 4:21PM UTC
Stop what you are doing right now and find another job. If you don't, you just may end up catching yourself a RICO case and end up in federal prison! Ignorance is not a viable defense when the DOJ comes breaking down your door! Be smart! Trust your gut and intuition! You said it yourself, too good to be true aka legal! No one is paying anyone $40/hr let along $140/hr to copy and paste ANYTHING legal, especially not in this economy!! And what exactly are you copying and pasting?! This sounds like LAYERING! I'm a Certified Fraud Examiner. FIND ANOTHER JOB ASAP!
AnonymousJuly 13,2024 at 11:22AM UTC
LOL. Hilarious.
NatashaJuly 12,2024 at 4:28PM UTC
You are so right! I'm an experienced professional working globally in anti-corruption and fraud detection. No one is going to pay no assistant that amount of money to copy and paste anything especially not in this economy! Without having any other details, this sounds like a LAYERING scheme which is a violation of AML (Anti-Money Laundering). If she's the one doing the copying and pasting or "cooking any books" she will find herself involved in a federal RICO case. Employees are not exempt if you willingly help your Boss commit a federal crime whether you know it or not! Ignorance is NOT Bliss. She needs to quit immediately and find another job or risk being sent to federal prison! Be smart, people! Her gut already warned her something is not quite right in Oz! #staysafe
AnonymousJuly 12,2024 at 5:02PM UTC
There's a 99.9% chance she is cooking the books and part of a RICO scheme! Ignorance is not bliss. You want to go to federal prison with her?
AnonymousJuly 14,2024 at 2:11PM UTC
OP here: LOL, I love how hilariously delusional your comment is. Funny that you posted this comment about 20 times -- as if once or twice wasn't enough.
There is a 99.9% chance that you don't know what you are talking about. For this project we are working with the government and there's a compliance manager on staff. Everything is done above board - as far as I can tell. Could I be wrong? Sure. And if I am, I'm happy to come back here to state that Random Anonymous Lady in the Internet was right! Ultimately, I know way more about the situation than you, so how you can say there's a 99.9% chance that this is a RICO scheme is hyperbole.
I am being paid the rate that they pay their attorneys, but I'm not an attorney, though I do have a JD and an MBA. I guess for the longest time I've been grinding hard at jobs that pay significantly lower. Making substantially more money (even tho that was the goal of business school) feels unreal. This sort of thing happens to other people.... not me.
Rosa GoesJuly 12,2024 at 5:19PM UTC
It doesn't seem too good to be true. Your annual pay is a little over $174K if working 24 hours per week at $140 an hour. However I agree with others to check what you are copying & pasting.
AnonymousJuly 12,2024 at 5:27PM UTC
There's a 99.9% chance she is cooking the books and part of a RICO scheme! Ignorance is not bliss. I've already busted dozens of these companies offering high pay just to COPY AND PASTE data! Her gut has already warned her that something is not right! No company is going to pay anyone $140/hr simply for doing a menial job like copying and pasting data! And I wonder if the Boss is not even in the US!
AnonymousJuly 14,2024 at 3:13PM UTC
For this project we are working with the government and there's a compliance manager on staff. Everything is done above board - as far as I can tell. Yes, I've had to run things through compliance; and others have had to run things through compliance before I receive the documents. In terms of documents and access, this is a very regulated company.
Could I be wrong? Sure. And if I am, I'm happy to come back here to state that "Anonymous" on the Internet was right! LOL! The project ends in October, so I should have more info then.
Ultimately, I know way more about the situation than you. Your opinion is bolstered by the limited info you have and an overactive imagination. I'm guessing you are a true crime fan? Girl, so am I but this isn't a crime situation. The project is run in collaboration with government officials, a compliance manager and I've lost count of the number of attorneys on the project. What I do know is that this project ends in October.
There are a group of us working on the same project. Everyone doing my type of work has an MBA or is a licensed attorney. Why do they need attorneys and MBAs to copy and paste? I don't know other than part 2 of the job requires analysis and audit determinations based on the data that was copied.
Yes, the boss is in the USA, he is a licensed attorney in good standing-- I checked with the state bar – He owns multiple businesses. He seems to favor empowerment, diversity, flex-time and good working conditions. Normally, when I get a job I get one of those things -- Not all of them + the money.
I guess I have imposter symndrome.
KennethaJuly 12,2024 at 5:29PM UTC
It's possible you're working for a shell company. So what you're doing is not at all nefarious but covering something that is. And the excessively good pay is to buy your continued silence/ignorance... Not to say YOU'RE not worth $140/hr. But the task of copying/pasting, part time, is ABSOLUTELY not worth that. Unless something else is going on. Start looking now, so when the music stops, you don't get caught without a seat.
AnonymousJuly 12,2024 at 5:32PM UTC
There's a 99.9% chance she is cooking the books and part of a RICO scheme! Ignorance is not bliss. You want to go to federal prison with her?
AnonymousJuly 14,2024 at 3:50PM UTC
OP here: You've posted numerous comments about there being a 99.9% chance of cooking the books or it being a Rico scheme. I'm not sure why you keep posting this? I'm responding to each of your comments -- as your comments are totally unfounded and I don't want people to get the wrong impression.
My suspicions have more to do with my INNER CONFIDENCE rather that some RICO crime you have imagined.
Again, stating for the record. For this project we are working with the government and there's a compliance manager on staff. Everything is done above board - as far as I can tell. Yes, I've had to run things through compliance; and others have had to run things through compliance before I receive the documents. In terms of documents and access, this is a very regulated company.
Could I be wrong? Sure. And if I am, I'm happy to come back here to state that "Anonymous" on the Internet was right!
Ultimately, I know way more about the situation than you. Your opinion is bolstered by the limited info you have and an overactive imagination. I'm guessing you are a true crime fan? Girl, so am I but this isn't a crime situation. The project is run in collaboration with government officials, a compliance manager and I've lost count of the number of attorneys on the project. What I do know is that this project ends in October.
There are a group of us working on the same project. Everyone doing my type of work has an MBA or is a licensed attorney. Why do they need attorneys and MBAs to copy and paste? I don't know other than part 2 of the job requires analysis and audit determinations based on the data that was copied.
Yes, the boss is in the USA, he is a licensed attorney in good standing-- I checked with the state bar – He owns multiple businesses. He seems to favor empowerment, diversity, flex-time and good working conditions. Normally, when I get a job I get one of those things -- Not all of them + the money.
I guess I have imposter syndrome.
So you can continue to believe that this is a RICO case and that I'm going to prison, but I think that sounds foolish given the additional facts I've supplied.
I respectfully ask that you stop repeating this assertion. It is untrue and not based in fact.
Respectfully,
$140/hr Anonymous woman
Kaitlin MorrisonJuly 12,2024 at 5:45PM UTC
By 'everything appears to be ethical and above board' then you need to find out, if you don't already know, how your work fits into the whole. When I was in business school, there were a lot of spreadsheets and 'copy and paste' formula work but we did have to understand how the formulas worked and what was happening with the copy and paste job. Could it be that what you think is 'easy' and too good to be true is actually just working with complex calculations in M&As but you just really understand it well? I mostly thought that part of B-school was easy, too. But that doesn't mean it isn't highly paid. Easy doesn't necessarily equal low pay.
But, by all means, make sure you're not involved in fraud. Use your intuition and what you learned in B-school to do the detective work. You don't want to involve yourself in fraud; it's not worth it and it won't ultimately help you or your family over the long haul.
AnonymousJuly 13,2024 at 11:29AM UTC
O.P. here. You asked, "Could it be that what you think is 'easy' and too good to be true is actually just working with complex calculations in M&As but you just really understand it well? I mostly thought that part of B-school was easy, too."
This is a possibility. The company is only hiring attorneys and M.B.A.'s for this type of work. Perhaps the second part of the job (where I am waiting to be trained) has more of the hardcore analysis justifying the high rate.
Kaitlin MorrisonJuly 15,2024 at 7:25PM UTC
I suspect that's true -- that the second part of the job has the more hard-core analysis. I will add, though, that although $140 an hour may not necessarily be typical right out of an MBA program for everyone, it's also not unheard of. And I suspect part of why you think your work is too easy because you're really smart, accomplished, and skilled. Your pay isn't just for how hard the work is. Your compensation also reflects your education, experience to this point, and the value of the work to your organization.
I work on 1099 projects also and my rate isn't consistent; generally I negotiate project rates and so my hourly rate is hidden from the client, but it wouldn't be weird for me to bill $200 an hour on client projects. I graduated with my MBA last year; $140 seems within what's typical for MBA work where you're an independent contractor. Plus you have a JD.
Personally, independent contracting like this is exactly why I went to business school. Life is expensive!
AnonymousJuly 12,2024 at 10:20PM UTC
You need to realize employers are scum. I just got ghosted for the 12th time. People are mean and low down.
Liz MilneJuly 12,2024 at 10:54PM UTC
It's probably dodgy, as others have said, but honestly, I'd love that kind of pay for a month or two!
AnonymousJuly 12,2024 at 11:05PM UTC
O.P. here. I am a legal person. JD (haven't taken the bar exam) + M.B.A. The work I am doing really does not appear to be "cooking the books." The rate I am being being paid is, I think, in line with what attorneys and more senior business school graduates get paid. I'm fresh out of business school, but even with my JD I did not expect to be paid an attorney rate. I am not an attorney and I do not plan on taking the bar exam or becoming an attorney.
AnonymousJuly 12,2024 at 11:26PM UTC
Hi Everyone, O.P. here. Thanks for your comments. Some of you have some wild imaginations -- but I do appreciate your concern. The work I'm doing isn't fraud or part of some RICO conspiracy -- How do I know? Without doxxing myself all I can say is that the project I am on is working in collaboration with the state government and the budget with the state is transparent and available via a FOIA. There is also a compliance manager on staff.
As I mentioned in another post I have a JD but I haven't taken the bar exam. I don't have any desire to become an an attorney. I also have an M.B.A. I recently graduated from business school. The rate I am being being paid is generally not typical for leaving business school. Well, for those who went to the Harvards and Yales, yes... but my school was not quite as prestigious. The $140/hour is in line with what attorneys and more senior business school graduates get paid at the same job. So there are 5-6 other doing the same work as me, but they are licensed attorneys. I'm fresh out of business school, but even with my JD I did not expect to be paid an attorney rate; My gut says that the attorneys are making even more than me doing the same thing. I'm not complaining tho.
Next week, I am told I will start training for the more complex part of my job which requires gap analysis. So we'll see. I'll try to post updates here. I'm still in awe of how this all came about. I am approaching it carefully. Thank you for your love, concern and comments.
Pia BunnyJuly 13,2024 at 12:48AM UTC
Wow, congratulations, this sounds super! $140 per hour is life changing!!!! It's a super blessing thanks to your knowledge. I'm an older student as well, and my Father was a lawyer. He's passed away now. It's so inspiring to hear. I hope you keep getting this salary and stay on it as a good wife. I'm getting my Master's in IT, in project management and a lot of the remote online positions are scams filling up my inbox. I hope to find a good paying job that gives me a good salary per hour as well.
BiancaJuly 13,2024 at 10:58AM UTC
Congratulations! I won’t say it’s dodgy. I won’t judge. Only you know how you feel about the job. You’re working as 1099 and you already have to find your own healthcare etc. if you’re you’re not working long hours then the pay adds up
properly. As long as you are comfortable with it, don’t question God or the universe on how you got there. Accept more blessings in your life. I’ve been unemployed for 13 months and am losing my mind. I do have a question. I too have an MBA (finance focus) and have been considering going back to school for a JD. What schools will accept you for law if you don’t have a BA in law? Just curious, I’ve been searching what schools to attend.
AnonymousJuly 13,2024 at 11:19AM UTC
A BA in Law isn't really needed for law school. I have one, but honestly I don't think it helped me for admissions. And no one in my law school cohort even had a BA. Just get a decent score on the LSATs and have a decent undergrad score. Academically, in law school my grades were pretty mediocre. B- / C+ student.
AnonymousJuly 13,2024 at 5:23PM UTC
So what do they pay a paralegal ? Asking for a friend as they say!
AnonymousJuly 14,2024 at 1:20PM UTC
OP here: I'm unsure of what they pay their paras but I'm very curious. I'm not even sure why they don't just get the paras to do the work that I'm doing?
AnonymousJuly 16,2024 at 7:51PM UTC
Thanks and I wonder why too! I’ve worked on doc reviews where it’s mostly attorneys as well as where I was the only one
Go figure
and yeah it does seem that some of the people here have made you into Ashley Judd in 90’s John Grisham movie adaptation
Cindy GloverJuly 13,2024 at 2:26AM UTC
Send it my way!
AnonymousJuly 13,2024 at 12:30PM UTC
If it’s an Investment Banking firm doing M&A I wouldn’t be surprised that they were paying that hourly rate for a 1099 MBA Graduate
AnonymousJuly 14,2024 at 3:20PM UTC
This is good to know.
AnonymousJuly 13,2024 at 12:39PM UTC
Of course $140 is actually not very high for a contractor fee. Even right out of school. The government usually budgets at a multiple of market rate due to the fact that the fee us not burdened (no benefits, bonuses, 401k etc)
AnonymousJuly 14,2024 at 7:35AM UTC
Money is relative and $140 feels high to me even if it is peanuts for you.
AnonymousJuly 13,2024 at 1:28PM UTC
Save money. Pay off debt. Invest and ride it til the wheels fall off ??‍♀️
AnonymousJuly 13,2024 at 1:31PM UTC
Just enjoy the ride. Life is too short to worry about things out of your control. Congratulations on grabbing such an amazing opportunity.
Dianna DeeleyJuly 13,2024 at 2:51PM UTC
So you have actually been paid?
There is the possibility that this is a money-laundering operation, but aside from that, I cannot think what nefarious thing this job is concealing.
LORI-ANN BURLINGAMEJuly 13,2024 at 3:19PM UTC
Say "Thank You" to the Universe and be grateful for the opportunity. Show gratitude for your blessings and enjoy them. Stop, second guessing yourself -- you and your family deserve this blessing. :)
marianne caseJuly 13,2024 at 6:36PM UTC
Where is this job and how do I apply!
AnonymousJuly 14,2024 at 1:54PM UTC
OP here:
I think that may be the case. Our formal training for the complex part begins this week. They are training me along with the other MBAs and attorneys.
Prefer to not sayJuly 14,2024 at 2:49PM UTC
Can I join?!
Cynthia KendallJuly 18,2024 at 5:39PM UTC
You must have proven yourself with the quality work you turned in. A competent employee is worth their weight in gold and can actually save the company money in that they don't have to send work back for multiple corrections. Congratulations!
AnonymousAugust 3,2024 at 1:04PM UTC
OP Here coming back for an update. It's been almost a month since I posted this. I continue to work remotely with the company. So far everything had been smooth sailing. I have increased my weekly hours. Next month I am going to be a digital nomad and work remotely from Europe. (I used to live in Europe and still have valid work permits there -- so no visa issues to deal with). I am saving money and paying off debt. I know that this is a limited opportunity, so I'm trying to make the most of it.
Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition SpecialistAugust 3,2024 at 5:40PM UTC
Soooo happy to hear this update! Have fun in Europe!!!

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