Making money from Tarot readings?

[Laiste]

Ok Here's the deal...I was in my local new age shop and was offered a position there reading Tarot!! I am very excited (and nervous) about being asked!! Although I could really use some extra money I don't feel all that comfortable charging for readings. It's not that I think it is unethical or anything...it just feels weird!! I told the woman I would think about it and let her know. It would be a great opportunity for me to expand and meet some people! What do you all think?

[WynnJera]

Hi ~ When I was given my 1st deck ~ OHHHH sooo many years ago ~ I as told to never charge for the reading ~ it would be considered ill gotten gain to use your talents for $$$ gain ~ I know it may be just an old wives tale ~ but what I would do maybe you might want to consider bater instead ~ have them pay her and you get store credits or something to that effect ~ then you are not REALLY directly getting money ~ I do not really think that Thor will strike you down if you charge as I think you need to get something for your efforts and energy drain ~ but Barter I feel is the better way ~ Hope I helped you some ~ BB ~ WynnJera ~

[Lavender]

That's a toughie! I can't see myself doing reading on that scale but I do fetishes for people that ask. I don't usually charge people for them but sometimes they ask if they can give me something to help with the cost of materials. I never ask but if they offer, I either accept or ask them to make a donation to a good cause...like the Cancer foundation or something like that. And the only times I accept is if I used a silver charm in their bag. I don't like doing that but those things can be costly.

I know what you mean about feeling weird about it. Do you have to give the store a percentage?

[Myst]

Well you have to make a living, and unfortunately for some if they don't start charging everyone and their monkey's uncle starts asking for free readings. *sigh*

[Lavender]

That's true...a friend was taking tarot lessons & the instructor said that it also makes people appreciate the reading more. The mentality that if it costs money, then it must be valuable and therefore appreciate it more. :rolleyes:

[Dagda Moon~Lily]

Personally, I think your time, effort and talent are ALL valuable.

In a store setting, it's just understood that there will be some sort of cost.

I read for close family and friends for free (and here as well) any one else asking, I need some compensation. With family and friends, I feel I already get compensated just by the bonds involved.

[MammaStar]

offer my 2 cents, for what it's worth. First, let me start off, I don't do readings, because I haven't really mastered my deck or my runes yet. Having said that, I look at what you all do for tarot readings as what writers do with their talent. There are some places that most writers (myself included) would write for free and other places where we would like to see some compensation for it. Especially those of us who need to work and make some $$$ just to live these days. So, I think, because you need to have some sort of income, I think that it would be okay to charge. Many places I have been require that you pay for readings. In fact, in my own experience, MW is the ONLY place (with a few here & there on line) where I've gotten a reading and did not have to pay first.

Laiste, you are my very good friend and I think you should go for it. It's not too often (for a lot of people) to get paid doing something they love.

[Flaire-FireStar]

I wouldn't ask for money for a reading, since I only do mine for friends & online... I don't think I'm that great at it, so I probably wouldn't be working in a store or anything like that - if I did work in a store though, I probably would charge.. :)

[Amethyst Rose]

I used to do tarot readings online, and I really don't have a problem with it. The only time I do have a problem with it is when the company cares more about money and keeping the clients on the phone, than they do about the clients. Which is why I'd never read for a phone psychic thingy... (such as Cleo).
You've gotta make money somehow.... and if no one made money off of their talents then a whole lot of people wouldn't be working right now....right down to doctors, lawers, teachers, etc., etc.....

[Laiste]

Originally posted by LdyStarlite
offer my 2 cents, for what it's worth. First, let me start off, I don't do readings, because I haven't really mastered my deck or my runes yet. Having said that, I look at what you all do for tarot readings as what writers do with their talent. There are some places that most writers (myself included) would write for free and other places where we would like to see some compensation for it. Especially those of us who need to work and make some $$$ just to live these days. So, I think, because you need to have some sort of income, I think that it would be okay to charge. Many places I have been require that you pay for readings. In fact, in my own experience, MW is the ONLY place (with a few here & there on line) where I've gotten a reading and did not have to pay first.

Laiste, you are my very good friend and I think you should go for it. It's not too often (for a lot of people) to get paid doing something they love.


AWWW!!! I Lub You!!:D :heartthro :heartthro

[Silver Venus]

I agree with everyone else and understand your position :) It must be really hard to adjust and ask for money. But you are worth it, you time, energy, effort and reading!

Maybe you could talk to the shop owner and think up some good deals where say ~ the querrant can get a discount of there second reading or if you need more time with one querrant then you can prolong the reading so you are both happy. Also Ive heard of readers giving there clients a small crystal stone that relates to their reading, maybe you could strike a deal with the shop owner where you can include this in the price too.

Let us know how you get on :sunny:

[Doctor Oakroot]

What's the difference between Wicca and New Age?...

You bring some food and drink to share at Wiccan gathering, but for the New Age gathering, you have to bring the $500 admission fee too :)

So if it's a new age store - no problem charging for a reading

(just kidding)

Seriously:

People expect to pay a small fee - accept your money... your readings are probably worth much more than you're charging.

As long as you (and the store) aren't running the standard pro fortune teller scam, there's no problem.

[Old Witch]

Take the money and give them their moneys worth!!

[Mnemosyne]

I think that you should take up the offer. Many professions have been scrutinized through history because of their prices. (For example, some people called teachers in ancient Greece "prostitutes of knowledge). Remember that this is modern times, and people exchange money in return for good service.

[Flar's Freyja]

As long as your fee is not exhorbitant, I see no problem with it. It is your time and the store rent has to be paid. Silver RavenWolf recommends that the fee be about the price of a good haircut. I deal with several readers and healers who just ask for a donation or 'love offering,' and I think that's the best way to go. That way, your services are accesible to everyone.

I'm not flush right now and have a chronic pain problem. I met a wonderful healer/massage therapist who works on donations. I give her a little money and am trying to get the word around to help her build her business. She has helped me so much that if I had $100 per session to give her, I would. And maybe some day I will. I am a professional who just started freelancing, and I've had a problem with taking people's money. It's gotten me into trouble. I finally got some strength when I had a dream about telling a client that I wasn't going to make any more free phone calls for him - he was going to pay me as much as he's paying his lawyer - $300 per hour! I got the idea.:)

[Amora]

I read in a store for a fee and have no problem with it. I do my best. I tell people what I see and what feelings I get intuitively...and sometimes it's not what they want to hear. But it is what I'm getting. It's not easy, especially when people cry because they did not hear what they wanted to, then you have to take their money anyway. But they come to hear the truth. There is nothing unethical about charging for your talents, because it is a talent. Just be prepared for the hard moments because it's not always easy to tell the truth.

[tarotbear]

There is a difference between charging for a reading and being in the business 'just for the money' ( Like a certain woman on TV now being sued by the Feds!)

By charging ( a reasonable amount) for a reading you show perspective clients that what you are doing is serious and not a parlour game. You also give the image that what you do has a value. "Something for free" carries the connotation that it is worthless.

I do 'Tarot Parties' in private homes. They take up a considerable amount of time and energy. I also do readings at public functions. Charging makes sense because it limits the number of clients you are expected to read for. Would you do 12 readings in 3-4 hours and expect to give it away? We are talking $10 for 15 minutes here, not these $200 an hour charges like you read about in the tabloids.

[Laiste]

Well yesterday I went to the store where I was offered this opportunity and did a quick reading for the store owner. She said I was pretty good for a beginner (three years)! I was happy to hear that. Then we started talking about our financial arrangement...well the deal is I have to rent the space from her and she puts an add in the newsletter and the storefront! I would charge the customer whatever reasonable fee I chose and If nobody shows I have to pay her anyway!! Well I don't have money to throw away to chance so I guess I'm not going for this! Ah well! Thanks to all for the encouragement and advise!

[Faery-Wings]

That's too bad hon!:(
But if nothing else, you probably got a good shot of confidence that you*can* do it, when the right opportunity arises.

BB

Chris

[Phoenix Blue]

Sorry to hear it fell through for you, Laiste. . . **offers a hug**

Most "New Age" stores work on a similar business model, though--they collect rent from you, and you collect money from your clients. Depending on where you are and how much time you have to dedicate yourself to the practice, it's either worth the risk or not.

WynnJera, you were told early on that you weren't to use your talents for monetary gain. **Soft smile** I held a very similar philosophy when I first started my own path. Now, I don't make any money off the occasional readings I do for others; I'm a computer programmer by trade. And I have to wonder if there's all that much difference in the end between programming and reading tarot in the sense of what I do with it?

If I make a career from my talent, with the aim of helping others, then where's the harm in keeping my bills paid? On the other hand, if I make a career from my talent with the sole aim of making money, am I really helping anyone but myself?

[Silver Venus]

Sorry it didnt work out Laiste, maybe its not the right time or place for you and soemthing allot better where you can use you Tarot skills will come up.

[myristica]

I feel that if you are "working" in a store it is fine, but if friends or someone you know asks you to then I would do it for free. If people offered a donation for your services I feel that that is ok as well. Also if I had a booth in a fair I would charge a small fee that would basically only pay for the space. Magicks should be done out of generosity and love, when money enters the picture sometimes our motives change and then the gift we have becomes exploited. This is just my opinion though.

[Flaire-FireStar]

:mad: That really sux, Laiste... I hope you get another opportunity soon though! :)

[Laiste]

Originally posted by Flaire
:mad: That really sux, Laiste... I hope you get another opportunity soon though! :)

LOL Yes it does!!:D

Thanks again everyone for all your support and advise!!

[SapphireDragon]

hmmm....... somone suggested i start charging, mostly because i need the money and so many people are asking for them (a queue of about 10 ppl so far) and they are just taking advantage. but i am at high school still, and i dont know if they'd even pay :( it's annoying, because i know i am being taken advantage of :( they arent even my friends, just total strangers.

Luwana ~ your resident sapphire draggy

[Lavender]

If you're annoyed at this people for taking advantage of you, won't that affect your reading for them?

[Phoenix Blue]

Better yet, why not just say no? **Smiles** You have that option--you're not obligated to read for other people just because they think it's cool.

Save your help for people who really need it, dear.

[SapphireDragon]

i know, but.... i enjoy doing readings for people. they arent pure, taking advantage...... but they wouldnt ask if i charged sorta thing :S gah, i dont know.

[Azure]

Long ago and far away I used to read for people all the time - at parties I read palms just to get to know people, etc. What happend was that people took advantage of that, and at the end of an evening, I was exhausted and hadn't really had the chance to have fun. I see no reason why you shouldn't charge people who press you for readings - and if you feel bad taking money, then let them pay you back in other sorts of favors, like a barter system.

[Alphyna]

I had the same opportunity. I was given the opportunity to read and do astrology and numerology at a local peaircing salon (ouch!) and I could not do it. She wanted 40% and asked that I charge 100 for all at least. Ack! Could never do that. I also worked at a 1 900 psychic network for a total of 2 days. How could anyone morally agree with such blasphemy?! People in financial trouble spending 100's of $$ talking to me? And the operators did not care about the people, they wanted you to have high averages to make more money. Blech! Horrible karma....
BB, Sarah

[Mythrel]

I believe that taking money for profit taints the readings.
but, if you take the money and then donate to charities I think that everything is fine due to the fact that you, yourself are using the money to help others as well as with the Tarot readings...

just my opinions though

[Phoenix Blue]

. . .someone who reads Tarot to pay their bills? :) It's not exactly "profit," then, it's earning a living.

[Sisqi]

I see reading tarot as a type of spiritual counseling. As a counselor myself, I have to take money in order to make a living. I see it this way, I am providing a service through my talents much as someone who is real good at math gets paid to keep someone's accounts in order. I charge a reasonable fee, take some clients who can not pay as a service to the community, and work on a sliding scale with clients who can't afford the 'going rate.' Tarot readers could be much like counselors in this respect. One has to make a living somehow, and if not with your talents, then with what??? Charging money does not mean I don't care about the client/feel for them deeply. Charging becomes unethical when you do harm to the other person through charging them money (ie. they can't afford the help and their kids won't eat if they pay, but really need it) which is why we take pro bono clients on. You may not be able to give away your time or set a sliding fee scale like that at a New Age shop, but being creative can solve the problem if you feel strongly about it.

[Draven31]

I look at it this way if you are trying to earn extra money and do honest readings more power to ya.I know that anybody in MW who would do readings for people for a fee would not fall into the miss cleo catagory anyway..All I can say is its hard enough to find an honest reader nowadays and if you had the chance to work in a shop where people could find you GREAT. Before I moved here I used to get reading from a wonderful woman who would spend as much time as needed on a reading for 10 bucks.She was so accurate it was scary. I have yet to find anybody here in town that even comes close..I've had a better reading on MW .... Laiste i saw that the job didnt work out but just thought I would put in my two cents.:)

[Flar's Freyja]

Originally posted by Phoenix_Blue
. . .someone who reads Tarot to pay their bills? :) It's not exactly "profit," then, it's earning a living.

I know several people who do that, and I envy them for doing what they love and making a living. I see nothing wrong with it as long as they maintain their integrity.

[Star Lane]

The way I see it is quite simply if you really have the gift, and can truly see further that what is printed on the cards, then it is something to share. It was not given to you to keep to yourself but to help others.

The only way that some others can obtain the wealth of your gift is by offering you something in return and of course in this situation it is cash.

IT DOESN'T MAKE IT A BAD THING TO DO just because you are taking money for it. No doubt if you had lived 300 years ago you could have had a goat instead!

[rootwork13]

As a long-timer (30+ years compared to my measly 10) to occult matters once explained to me, it's all about an even exchange of energy.
When I have outside employment, I seldom charge anyone for a reading. When I do have 'commercial readings', the rate I feel comfortable with here in this impoverished neck of the woods is 15 bucks....45 minute time limit. I've given away more readings than I've been paid for; come to think of it, I've given away more than I've paid for. And good readers in some areas know full well they can get by with asking 45-75 bucks a pop for a 30-45 minute session. It's a realm of physical and material concerns, folks.
Yes, it's a gift; one which most of us have to practicepracticepractice at until we feel 'good' enough to go public. I'll never turn anyone down (unless they are intoxicated, under the influence or under 18) and barter is always a good method for me as well.

[rootwork13]

pinching Freyja on the ...well, nevermind. Grinin' atcha/robbie
:shift:

[JohnH]

If you don't want to charge people, tell the boss that you 'll do it for free. That's what I would do......but I'm wierd.....don't listen to me.

[Aine of the Fae]

I read Tarot for a living. At first I didn't charge for readings, but then people tell friends "how great and accurate" I was and how much I helped them see things in a different way or helped them get past something that was blocking them and before I knew it I was constantly getting calls and emails and visits from people who just wanted a quick reading. I finally decided to turn it into an actual business. I've recently put up a website and am in training at a site where I will begin reading in the next couple of weeks. I like the site that I'll be working for because everyone there is so kind and ethical. You have to apply to be a reader, go through an interview process and then go through training on their rules and guidelines as well as some of the programs they use to make online readings a little faster and easier (they use a macros program in their chatrooms so you don't have to type the 10 lines of rules again and again and again...) And you don't just rush in reading right off the bat, you have a probation period first. Ok, so I've strayed a bit.

Reading professionally has saved my husband and I from bankruptcy when he lost his job. I've made enough to be able to keep paying our bills and I'll be making more soon. With the money I'll make I'll be able to save towards my dream of opening a Tarot store in the real physical world.

As long as you don't overcharge for your services (like those who charge $3 or more a minute...) then I don't see anything wrong with it. They are paying you for your time. If you weren't reading for them you could be working somewhere making money. Besides, people don't tend to take things seriously enough unless they pay for it.

[Rainbow Chaser]

I couldn't agree more Velvetmirage. I read for a living as well, very modestly at the moment I have to say because I am doing other stuff.
I see it as rendering a service and like the plumber, it has to be paid for. I prefer to look at it from that angle instead of making it into some spiritual elite thing.

[docdoo]

I know this thread has been posted to alot.. but I'll throw in my opinion anyway. I voted unsure on the poll mostly because I am still new at Tarot.

Right now I dont want, or need anyone to pay me...I am getting as much as the querant when I read the all important PRACTICE! Im still at the stage where I love the chance to roll up my sleeves and read a bunch of people (though Im exhausted afterwards but I think I'll post on that in a bit) Im getting as much out of the exchange as they are.

At this point I could not imagine charging for a reading, a barter system like the one we use here on MW (I'll read you if you read me kind of thing) is wonderful. I think that if you feel an inner conflict in taking money then perhaps if you donated a portion of your earnings to charity then it may ease your spirit a bit?

I know the job fell through for you but I can still imagine your excitement. Here you would have had the chance to do something you find very enjoyable (which many times is payment enough...but alas we cant live on good vibes alone...the all important $ really does force us to do things we wouldnt want to do) and also make a bit of money with.

Im sure I would feel simalarily (sp?) if offered the same thing...the chance to read AND make money....I think I'de donate a portion of the earnings to a good charity and then I'de know I was also doing double good.

Til next time,

[9-2-2]

I do tarot readings for free, even if it takes all day. If they want to pay me, they can. I don't really care. I just love helping others. :)

[Loreley]

I don't take money for any magical or witchcraft practices, Tarot reading included.
Why? Because I am not in this for the money. I didn't start studying magic for money, I didn't devote years of my life for money, and I don't spend hours every single day for money. I consider these practices to to be holy. Taking money for them, for me, is just like a priest that would charge money for Sunday mass.

I have a career, I earn my living. I won't desecrate religious symbols by taking money for them. When I read for other people, I do it because I feel I can help them. I don't do it just for anyone, only close friends and family, or those that reached me through a friend.

I realize that this is a very radical view. I also realize that in ancient times witches, magos and so on did charge money for their work. And of course there are a lot of people, not necessarily pagan, that learn tarot to make a business out of it. What can I say, to each his own and others' mileage may vary.

[Yasmine Galenorn]

I couldn't agree more Velvetmirage. I read for a living as well, very modestly at the moment I have to say because I am doing other stuff.
I see it as rendering a service and like the plumber, it has to be paid for. I prefer to look at it from that angle instead of making it into some spiritual elite thing.

Couldn't agree more. Reading takes energy, and there should be some sort of exchange to acknowledge the effort and time the reader puts into the reading. I've been reading the cards for 24 years, and I've read professionally for 16 of those years. At times it was the only thing that helped put food on our table. Finally, as my writing career took off, I read less and less for strangers--not because I wasn't good at it, and not because I didn't think it was right, but simply because I don't enjoy inviting strangers into my home, and most of all--it takes valuable time away from my writing.

However, I am adamant in my belief that someone who wants to go into reading professionally had better know the cards inside and out...if you charge money for any service--be it plumbing or reading cards--you need to know what you're doing. And if you give readings to anybody but yourself, you need a smattering of psychology and an understanding of human nature so you don't screw somebody up. People put a lot of stock in their readers, I've turned away clients who looked like they might be getting dependent on my readings, and I've had no hesitation in referring people to therapists who needed a counselor a lot more than they needed a tarot reading.

Yasmine G.

[13thChylde]

I think there needs to be some sort of energy exchange involved, be it money or another service. And I agree with Yasmine, if one is going to charge for readings, they better be an expert!

[Aine of the Fae]

I think there needs to be some sort of energy exchange involved, be it money or another service. And I agree with Yasmine, if one is going to charge for readings, they better be an expert!

Well, I don't know about "expert" but I've been reading for a few years and always consider myself to be a student. I will be an eternal student :) However you are right, you'd durned well better know what you're doing. When people come to a reader they are often at their last desperate straw and seek advise from you as a last resort. These are often desperate people who have nowhere else to go and if you aren't careful.... well, let's just say there are some pretty crazy people out there and readers sometimes see the worst.

I had a friend who was also a professional reader end up being stalked by a former client who became so dependant on her she wouldn't make a decision without consulting her first. This may seem extreme but it happens and if you aren't at least somewhat versed in psychology, then you won't know some of the warning signs to look for.

I'm studying for my Pastoral Counseling (interfaith/non-denominational) degree and have taken many courses in psychology, counseling (both spiritual and secular) and human behavior. After all the books I've read and classes I've attended, I've decided people are nuts.

[Yasmine Galenorn]

I'm studying for my Pastoral Counseling (interfaith/non-denominational) degree and have taken many courses in psychology, counseling (both spiritual and secular) and human behavior. After all the books I've read and classes I've attended, I've decided people are nuts.

:lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:

Oh yeah...after all the letters I've gotten over the years from my readers--many of which are wonderful and very delightful to read, but a number of which are downright scary and more than a little bit off beam, I've pretty much come to the same conclusion--people are nuts, so carry a good sized squirrel with you wherever you go.

Yasmine

[Aine of the Fae]

:lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:

Oh yeah...after all the letters I've gotten over the years from my readers--many of which are wonderful and very delightful to read, but a number of which are downright scary and more than a little bit off beam, I've pretty much come to the same conclusion--people are nuts, so carry a good sized squirrel with you wherever you go.

Yasmine


Yup, yup.... could have used some squirrel yesterday. I was temping this week at the local PBS station and we got all sorts of kooks and crazies who were upset over a 9-11 documentary that was aired. We were bad people because of comments made about Bush and we refused to admit that Islam is evil. Sorry but there are crazies and extremists in EVERY religion, doesn't make the religion bad.

[Yasmine Galenorn]

Yup, yup.... could have used some squirrel yesterday. I was temping this week at the local PBS station and we got all sorts of kooks and crazies who were upset over a 9-11 documentary that was aired. We were bad people because of comments made about Bush and we refused to admit that Islam is evil. Sorry but there are crazies and extremists in EVERY religion, doesn't make the religion bad.

I'm at a point where I don't even call my beliefs a 'religion' any more. I say "I have a spiritual path" or whatnot, because I'm so freakin' tired of all the arguing about who's right and who's wrong, and all the fundies in every religion, including Paganism.

And yes, unfortunately right now anybody who's making comments against the current administration is *gasp* suspect. (heck, I probably have a nice big file for all the letters I've written). Whatever happened to the concept of freedom of speech? (Well, I've seen people attempt to ban my books in libraries before, so censorship is alive and well....luckily, as far as I know, they haven't been successful yet). :floating:

Ever seen Scary Squirrel World? If'n you ever need a good squirrel, you can find some there! :lol:

http://www.scarysquirrel.org/

~cheers!~
~Yasmine~

[Aine of the Fae]

I'm at a point where I don't even call my beliefs a 'religion' any more. I say "I have a spiritual path" or whatnot, because I'm so freakin' tired of all the arguing about who's right and who's wrong, and all the fundies in every religion, including Paganism.

And yes, unfortunately right now anybody who's making comments against the current administration is *gasp* suspect. (heck, I probably have a nice big file for all the letters I've written). Whatever happened to the concept of freedom of speech? (Well, I've seen people attempt to ban my books in libraries before, so censorship is alive and well....luckily, as far as I know, they haven't been successful yet). :floating:

Ever seen Scary Squirrel World? If'n you ever need a good squirrel, you can find some there! :lol:

http://www.scarysquirrel.org/

~cheers!~
~Yasmine~

:lol: scary squirrel! That's funny! I'm almost to a point where I can't really call myself Pagan anymore because my path draws on so many various 'religions' and spiritual ideas.

[zakzekezedd]

My own 2 1/2 cents...I live in a county were it is illegal to read Tarot or do any sort of divination publically. I didn't know that when I started reading, but I only read for myself and a few close friends anyway. Still, as long as you live someplace where it's not against the law, I see nothing wrong with charging. If you aren't comfortable with setting a fixed fee schedule, maybe just let the person you read for pay what they feel is appropriate for your service. You'd be amazed at how unbelievably generous some people will be...and how "tight" some of the others are..;)..

As to the suject of squirrels! Hey, quit picking on the little goobers! They make the rest of us appreciate how sane we really are.......:):):)

[Yasmine Galenorn]

As to the suject of squirrels! Hey, quit picking on the little goobers! They make the rest of us appreciate how sane we really are.......:):):)

Hey, squirrels are kewl! They inhabit our back yard and run up and down the fence, staring at me and my cats while I write. They're also good for catching nuts. :hehehehe:

But skwerls are another matter...those are the two-legged variety and I'd rather not meet them anymore, thank you!

Yasmine
:colorful:

[Aine of the Fae]

My own 2 1/2 cents...I live in a county were it is illegal to read Tarot or do any sort of divination publically. I didn't know that when I started reading, but I only read for myself and a few close friends anyway. Still, as long as you live someplace where it's not against the law, I see nothing wrong with charging. If you aren't comfortable with setting a fixed fee schedule, maybe just let the person you read for pay what they feel is appropriate for your service. You'd be amazed at how unbelievably generous some people will be...and how "tight" some of the others are..;)..

As to the suject of squirrels! Hey, quit picking on the little goobers! They make the rest of us appreciate how sane we really are.......:):):)

Where do you live?

[zakzekezedd]

Enid, Oklahoma....Garfiled County has a law on the books against Tarot reading or any sort of divination in public..supposed to protect the honest citizens from those evil gypsies and charlatans out to steal their money. Tends to put a crimp in any sort of metaphysical fair..although aura readings seem to slip by because they aren't fortune telling. Actually the law is against reading for pay, but most people tend to read only for themselves and people they know well just to avoid any hassles....
heh heh heh..Yasmine..if only you knew some of the skwerls I have to deal with on a regular basis...if only!!!!!!!!!!!!!! No wonder I'm a mental case...

[Aine of the Fae]

Enid, Oklahoma....Garfiled County has a law on the books against Tarot reading or any sort of divination in public..supposed to protect the honest citizens from those evil gypsies and charlatans out to steal their money. Tends to put a crimp in any sort of metaphysical fair..although aura readings seem to slip by because they aren't fortune telling. Actually the law is against reading for pay, but most people tend to read only for themselves and people they know well just to avoid any hassles....

Ick, that really sucks. I can understand trying to avoid scam artists, but to forbid it altogether? If that's the case they should ban every industry out there, because no matter what you talk about, somebody, somewhere, will find a way to scam others and make a quick buck.

I'm lucky where I live. Not only is it allowed, but we actually have a reader who reads from a home/office on the busiest shopping street in the county. Of course she's a bit elitist, thinks she's better than all the other readers around here, etc.... but oh well...

[zakzekezedd]

Well, the laws been on the books since the "Dark Ages" so to speak...I'm sure that a certain amount of conservative Southern Baptist paranoia was instrumental in getting it passed in the first place..
Still it would be a good idea for anyone thinking about reading for money to check the city, county and state statutes that might apply to their endeavor. Getting busted by the Tax Commission because you haven't been collecting and paying sales taxes probably wouldn't be too much fun.......

[Aine of the Fae]

Well, the laws been on the books since the "Dark Ages" so to speak...I'm sure that a certain amount of conservative Southern Baptist paranoia was instrumental in getting it passed in the first place..
Still it would be a good idea for anyone thinking about reading for money to check the city, county and state statutes that might apply to their endeavor. Getting busted by the Tax Commission because you haven't been collecting and paying sales taxes probably wouldn't be too much fun.......

That's good advice for any business owner and if you are making money from reading you are either and employee or a business owner/contractor. In Michigan you don't have to charge sales tax for services, so I don't have to worry about that part. However I have general liability insurance (you never know) as well as require all live clients to sign a waiver. Online and on the phone I work through Keen and Kasamba, so they cover me there. I am also an ordained minister and am currently studying for a degree in pastoral counseling. My reading practice (at least in live interaction) is geared more toward spiritual counseling than "fortune-telling." I want to heal and fortune telling tends to lead to obsessive clients who become addicted to psychics and bounce from one to the next until they find one who tells them what they want to hear. I have a few repeat clients but for the most part I empower clients to make decisions for themselves and move on with their lives.

Ok, I'm rambling again....

[Yasmine Galenorn]

:lol: scary squirrel! That's funny! I'm almost to a point where I can't really call myself Pagan anymore because my path draws on so many various 'religions' and spiritual ideas.

You know, I hit this point some time ago. Yes, I am a Witch and a Priestess, but I'm not Wiccan, and while my spiritual roots are definitely in northern European Paganism, once I pull away from the human scale and perception of life, I tend to view the universe through a delicate blend of scientific and Taoist viewpoints. It all gets very strange when I start thinking about reality and how tenuous it is...and how at some point, nothing seems to matter when you 'zoom out' to a macrocosmic level. So I do understand that sense of alienation from trying to assign a label to oneself.

And yes, this has nothing to do with Tarot...well, everything is linked at some point so I suppose it does but not in my post tonight. ~smiles~

Yasmine

[Yasmine Galenorn]

heh heh heh..Yasmine..if only you knew some of the skwerls I have to deal with on a regular basis...if only!!!!!!!!!!!!!! No wonder I'm a mental case...

*coughs* We should compare notes...I've got a box full of letters from my readers, about a third of which fall in that 'skwerl' category. There are some wonderful people out there who I really enjoy hearing from, and then there are the ones that I'd kind of like to tiptoe out of the room and shut the lights on. I wish you the best though, considering where you live (which sounds like the state of "repression".... :colorful: ).

:falloffch

Yasmine

[seastone81]

It's not that I think it is unethical or anything...it just feels weird!!
That was my initial reaction too. I think that I would not be able to accept money because I would be thinking about that and not about the cards. But if you need the money, I think you could maybe learn to work with taking it?

[Smiley Girl]

I think that if they're willing to pay, then why not? As long as you do an honest reading. :D I also think that you should have a few years experience... so that they know they are paying for it. :)

[Romani Vixen]

It's a service. I don't think it's unethical.

[Pan]

Personally? Charging is fine.

Charging $700 is not.

[shiris_t_wytch]

Hi folks,
I have been reading for overr a year now and i have been offerd money for readings, but it dosen't feel right to me although i have been given some lovley things for doing readings such as a bag of wild herbs of variouse sorts and a lovley sword which i now my athame, it's down to the individual whether the charge money or not, for me seeing the look on the peoples faces when i tell them something that's supposed to be a secret, is payment enough, this has happend a few times and i got to be honest i get a real kick out of it.

Gentle Breeses,
Shiris :broomride

[HorseCrow]

Well, money is the "item" of trade in our time... way back it would have been grain, vegetables, meat etc. Today it's money... I don't see why it would be wrong to get paid.

About 100 years ago, midwives here where I live were paid in form of such things as half a pig, 3 bags of potatoes, 5 jugs of milk or something else to taht extend. Today I get a monthly paycheck. And I do not feel bad about it... money, potatoes or meat- we all have to live.

[Keroberos]

when I got my first reiki attunement a few years ago, my master required that I do some character designs for her. She said that with certain things like reiki some sort of payment is required to give it more worth to the person recieving it. I believe that's true for tarot reading as well. lf a person doesn't give some sort of payment (whether it be some homemade cookies, or money) then they won't appreciate the work behind the reading or the importance and impact of the reading itself. Just my two cents.

[MAR]

I voted absolutely not! I don't think it's unethical at all. if a reader is serious and really want to help those people for some reason, it's ok. but if the reader, just do it for money, not being serious and really don't care about those people, that's unethical. Besides, life cost much! and we have to eat, wear clothes, pay the bills, etc.. then Why people work for money? they are putting their skills and talent at work. :jumprope:

[Arani]

I don't think there's anything wrong with charging for Tarot readings, but I personally would probably have a sign like, "Donations accepted" or something like that, so people don't *have* to pay if they don't want to. . .

[Tierce]

People value things in proportion to what they pay for them. If you charge for readings, the person is more likely to respect the time and energy you put into them. It lets the client know that tarot reading is something that requires study and practice.

[elfoala]

Hi there..... I used to work on Jackson Square in the French Quarter of New Orleans...
By law you can only ask for a donation.

I would wait out there until the person came up to me asking the price... Many people would be made nervous by me not quoting a price. My line was "I work on a donation basis and if I'm right leave a donation. If I am wrong you can walk away free and clear with no charge. Decide after the reading is done" That covers the ethical part

elfoala

[arctic splash]

I see nothing wrong with it. I really have a hard time accepting money for anything, but I realise that if I don't accept money for my talents, where is it going to come from?! I want to spend my life helping people, and the money helps me be able to do that. I think tarot is a great way to make money, because you're helping people even as you accept the money. I feel a revulsion to most types of "work" because I really don't feel like I'm helping people in any significant way. I'm giving away my time, and accepting money -- that's it. Tarot is rewarding in itself, if you ask me.

[Mowri]

There is nothing wrong with accepting a "donation" for your services. :)
Were you to massivly overcharge (Miss Cleo comes to mind) then perhaps you would be being unethical. I usualy am asked what I charge...and the answer I usualy give is "whatever youre comfortable with"

[Zander770]

Why would "accepting" and/or "requiring money" for the services of the performance of the reading of the Tarot be "unethical," in any way, what so ever?

I was really quite surprised to hear so many such sentiments posted, here.

I mean, unless it's some "zoning code violation concern" (as elfoala mentioned regarding the French Quarter in New Orleans, below), a la the same similarities concerning many such "street and business laws"--e.g., tattooing--governed by each individual state in America.

In fact, I consider my answer to this question much as I would if asked whether I'd prefer an original oil painting from some "starving artists' sale," advertised on late night television or selling from any one of the many, popular yet pretentious Scottsdale Art Galleries between Stetson Drive and Camelback Road:

"You get what you pay for!"

Isn't that the age-old adage?

Moreover, I've been "charging money" for Tarot readings ever sense I was a wee-lad of around thirteen years of age working with the traveling carny's during summer vacations as they trekked throughout the cities of northern Ohio, and, then, much, much later, off-and-on through college, usually either hireing on in some ("then!") small retail "Magick Shop" where one'd be expected do everything from stocking shelves and taking out the trash to keeping the daily books in check and having a working, sales knowledge of all of the items on sale.

Which would include the "demonstration" of the different Tarot cards, most always in a real reading where others--sometimes it would seem like "crowds" of nosey "peeping-toms," to the MUCH MORE PLEASANT environs of being paid to read the Tarot on an hourly basis at a friends graduation, birthday, or plain old general "Saturday Night" party!

In retrospect I can't see a better way (or place!) in which to learn through real, hands-on experience; that hard boiled "give-and-take." It's quite a crash course in being able to think Tarot on your feet; having to react--quickly!--to sincere, albeit sometimes QUITE "unnerving expectations," especially when "this particular querant"--the "big, bald, tattooed guy with his thick, gold pirate earring stamped through his right nostril," USUALLY!--doesn't particularly LIKE, nor CARE that the general "meaning" of the 5 of Cups in the Future Outcome Position is NOT exactly the Best of Signs when concerning his question:

"Don't you dare tell me, now, my newlywed bride's done gone 'cheatin'' on me, already?!!?"

It's quite a different scenario reading the Tarot "LIVE and in PERSON," as anyone here who has done so will attest to, compared to "reading on-line" (and I'm NOT saying that there're not Great Experiences to be had via BOTH venues, just that their methods are VASTLY different, and in almost every, single way, too. I mean, one only has to consider the Tarot reader who "Solves the Crime" that occurred in Memphis while s/he sat in pajamas drinking Lite beer and dropping Tarot Keys while shuffling in Santa Fe)!

I've had at least . . . ten? fifteen? business cards (a new batch ordered for every other change of address, practicily) pertaining to the fact that I am an "Available, Experienced, and Professional" reader of the Tarot over the past twenty-five years.

What's "wrong" with that?

Nothing, I don't think!

Especially, now, these days, in any and every "big city," there's bound to be--at least--a dozen, or more "New Age Shops" (((NEW AGE is OLD AGE! is what I say!))) and it's a GREAT place for a reader of the Tarot to get a pretty great paying, part-time job in what usually portends to be a "pleasent atmosphere" to work in, and, moreover? If you're Good? The repeat cliental can be almost astounding!

Here in Phoenix, alone, since 1995 I must have worked at . . . more than a dozen "New Age Shops"--I can see one in particular ("Vision Quest" is its name and business is HUGE) from my back, bedroom window, in fact!

And, as I mentioned, it's not a Bad Gig getting paid for a skilled talent in which you very much enjoy--no matter if you're "getting paid" in dollars or Karma Pokes!--anyway.

I've made a lot of friends through working in retail situations, as well as teaching in differing workshops and classes, but, I'd have to say that I particularly "do it" for the Saturday Night Party invites, not necessarily for The Dough, you know?


At least not Each and Every Time it's NOT "for the money."


:rant:
Slainte'!

[Hazel witchazel]

Ok Here's the deal...I was in my local new age shop and was offered a position there reading Tarot!! I am very excited (and nervous) about being asked!! Although I could really use some extra money I don't feel all that comfortable charging for readings. It's not that I think it is unethical or anything...it just feels weird!! I told the woman I would think about it and let her know. It would be a great opportunity for me to expand and meet some people! What do you all think?

Hi Laiste
I have done readings for money. The old fortune tellers use to get people to cross their palms with silver which was suppose to draw down the moon to open the third eye and spark the intuition. But i also see it in a way that people are paying for my time and effort and i have spent money myself on learning through books and attending classes on developing my intuition and on the tarot cards themselves. The rune gyfu suggests that a gift requires a gift in return. After all the ancients did readings for money. As long as you try your best for each client thats all that matters, in alot of cases we are almost counsellors as we try and help people to pave the way ahead and solve their problems.

blessings

Hazel witchazel

[Dawa Lhamo]

I voted "not sure". I feel uncomfortable charging money for Tarot as I would charging money for magic. I wouldn't say it's absolutely unethical, of course, but that one might want to be careful how they go about it. That said, it is a service, of course, and people have got to make a living somehow. I'm totally against charging people exhorbitant prices, though.

As a fundraiser for the pagan group on campus, I've done readings for a small donation (us. 3card-$1, 5card-$3, and 10card-$5) but I make sure that I read first before they give any money, because I only want to be paid if they're satisfied with the quality of the reading. Of course, I wasn't being paid, it was as a volunteer for the benefit of the group. (of course, more money for the group means less I pay out-of-pocket, so it does help me, indirectly)

So I'd say it's fine as long as it's done ethically. When a reader gets too greedy or tries to cheat people, obviously it's unethical there.

Tashi delek!
Dawa Lhamo

[KiNoRonin]

Konnichi Wa to All:

I do Tarot Readings for Free in order to try to attract attention to my Goal of promoting the Nature Worshipping Theologies, Phiosophies and Spiritualities that I believe in and practise.

That includes getting attention so that can tell the story of my Reverance for the Hiroshima Survivor Eucalyptus Tree that I found in Hiroshima Japan on June 10th 2005.


Ki No Ronin

[Maverynthia]

I think as long as the person that is asking for the reading nows exactly how much they are going to pay BEFORE the reading, then it's OK. But if you give a reading and then expect money that they didn't know they had to pay then that's wrong.

Basically if it's not stated up front how much, then it should be free.

[Aine of the Fae]

Me and "regular jobs" don't mix. I've held about 50 or so in the past 10 years. And that's not an exaggeration.

I'm good at reading Tarot, and if people are willing to pay why shouldn't I charge? They are paying for my time and for my energy, something I don't have a lot of at times.

When doing live readings, I work on a sliding fee scale. Readings are generally $15 for 15 minutes or $45 for an hour. Parties are $120 for the first 2 hours and $45 for each additional hour. Each guest gets a ten minute reading, and a certificate for 25% off a follow-up reading. The host/ess gets a free half-hour reading before or after the party.

My prices are a heck of a lot cheaper than others I've seen out there! One of our local psychics charges $45 for a 15 minute reading!!!

And if a person genuinely cannot afford my rates (heck... lately I can't afford my rates, as low as they are!) I work out a trade. Do they bake? I'll take cookies! Do they sew? I love handmade Tarot bags! In the past I've gotten new decks. A person once came to me with a deck, said she wanted me to read for her with it and that I could keep it as my fee. Can't beat that!

We only have two local shops here. One is fully booked with readers until July or so, the other already has their shop reader, the niece of the owner, and doesn't want any other readers. Might "hurt" her business. Yeah... it probably would... honestly she's a fraud... Hubby and I have had readings done by her and walked away shaking our heads... She's a cold-reader, doesn't read the cards, and she's not very good at cold-reading people. She asked what I do for a living and I told her (this was a couple of summers ago when I was just really starting my practice) and she told me that I should try to find a job elsewhere because my "aura isn't suited to such demanding work...." Mmhmmm... ok.... What did she charge? $30 for a 15 minute reading..... NOT worth the money...

I've found that the higher the prices, the more unethical the reader. This isn't always true, there are some who are worth more than the price! But generally speaking, you can tell if a person is in it for the money, or if they are doing it because they love to do it. Will they take alternate forms of payment? Will they offer a discount or even free reading if you're hard up? How much are they charging? Etc....

You can make a good income at this. Before I got sick I was getting about 20 hours a week of call time from Keen, that at $17.40 an hour! (I set my fee at .75 a minute and make .29 of that.) That's $348 a week. Then add to that an average of 2 parties a week, that's another $240 a week. Plus about 10 live client readings a week, 6 of which pay for a full hour, the other 4 pay for 15 minutes, or use a barter for a reading, and that's another $270 to $330 a week. So for a total of about 34 hours of work I was making about $858 a week. That's a little over $25 an hour on average. Pretty good money, but not so much that I'd be considered rich.

If I hadn't gotten sick I'd probably be making more, because as you continue reading, word-of-mouth spreads and your client base expands. Ideally I'd like to do all live work. I prefer live readings, I get more client interaction and immediate feedback that way. I can ask what they see in the cards, and get their emotional/psychological perspective much better that way.

We all have to make money someway. Shouldn't we do it with something we enjoy and are good at?

[Niamh celtic mist]

You have a talent and I agree with the statement....Why not get paid for something you love! :fpeace:

[Pure Ahimsa]

I do not think Magick can be 'payable'. But it does take up time in a high-paced society.

[Astara Seague]

There is nothing wrong with accepting a "donation" for your services. :)
Were you to massivly overcharge (Miss Cleo comes to mind) then perhaps you would be being unethical. I usualy am asked what I charge...and the answer I usualy give is "whatever youre comfortable with"

I agree_vb_

[misty]

I don't think it is unethical. People are paying for a service that you are providing. That is the way jobs work. As long as someone is willing to pay for it, why not? It isn't hurting anyone.

My aunt, whom taught me about tarot, used to do "tarot parties" where she would do a 15-30 minute reading with each person for a set fee. She really enjoys reading tarot and thought it was wonderful that people were willing to pay her to do what she loved.

[aluokaloo]

I think it depends on the individual reader, I know nothing of tarot, but in my opinion, as long as a person doesn't give people a reading that they think/want to hear, and just give it as someone might give good council, then there's nothing wrong with it. There are plenty of people who do it. It's up to you. I see nothing wrong with it as long as one isn't fraudlent, or playing dear abby.

[sincerebliss]

I think it depends on intentions..

[Silver Ivy]

hmm ... I think that it is a hard question to answer ...

I don't do public readings ... so I'm not sure if I would charge ... but I do agree with others - there is nothing wrong with accepting a donation :) It also depends on intentions too ... why the person is charging. I think that it is quite an individual thing :)

[obie]

i was thinking of doing tarot online. like reading tarot for ppl at an affordable price. ppl could pay me thru paypal. i'm just wondering would i have to get some kind of license to do that?

[BeigeAllen]

I perform a variety a divination styles including tarot and yes, I do charge in certain settings. In other settings I do not charge, or I donate my services to a group fundraiser so that they can make money charging for my readings.

Settings I would charge:
Parties - rather than doing deep readings, I stick merely to surface topics and keep it light hearted. When I am being booked in for parties I usually try and fit the readings to the theme of the party if there is one.
Shops - I have done readings in shops and always charge for them, though half the time I donate the money raised to one charity or another.
Frivolous Readings - Charging is a way to discourage friends and family from taking advantage, usually I take barter for this, but I did require cash from one friend who always wanted a reading predicting where she would find her true soul mate after the flavor of the quarter had gotten boring.

[Vincent Verthaine]

Charging for a reading if it's used a a form of psycho analysis is totally acceptable.Charging for "fortune telling" is a scam.Living in N'awlins all these years,I've known many readers who actually think they can "tell the future".(yet,many of then became homeless during katrina.guess they didn't see that one coming).
As a discordian,I find the thought of the future being set in stone totally repugnant and against our Goddess given right to chose our own way".At best,they may be able to guess the most probable outcome,but to say that they see THE FUTURE is suspect.I never allow anyone to give me a reading(I prefer I Ching myself,if I need to answer a question I know the answer to deep down inside ).How do I now they are not creating my future,rather then just foretelling it? The Power of Suggestion is a in itself a Powerful thing.
Like magic,too many tarot practicioners overrate themselves.

[Amber Wynd]

I make my living giving tarot readings. I prefer to read over the phone, but also read in a small shop from time to time. My approach to tarot reading is that the cards are most useful as a road map. My clients usually know where they want to be, but not how to get there and I can tell them if they're on the right road or if they need to make a detour. Sometimes they just can't get to where they want to be because they aren't ready yet or because someone else's free will is involved, so it's my job at that point to remind them that there are always other options.

I'd much rather read the present time and look at help someone deal with their current situation in the most positive manner than get into the future because Vincent's correct. The future isn't set in stone and my job is mostly crisis counseling. But I do think that a good reader can look at the cards and say "If you stay on this path and if the other person you're asking about also chooses to stay on this same path, then this or this is the most likely outcome." or "Are you getting enough rest? Are you eating right? Because my cards are advising me that you probably aren't taking good enough care of your body right now and unless you make some changes you're likely to get sick." or even "I'm sorry, but I just don't see that happening without a whole lot of work and even then there's no guarantee. Are you sure this is what you want to do? Because just look at all these other options out there for you."

At first it was hard taking money for my readings and I literally gave hundreds of free readings away. Reading full time takes a lot of energy and now that I'm a single mom putting my daughter through college, I look at this as my job. The breakthrough for me was when I went I realized that tarot reading is 80% counseling and the cards are a tool that offer insight into the issues facing the client. I didn't have trouble charging money when I was a counselor and this is really no different. Besides, people are weird and they treat the reader with more respect and are more open to what we have to say when they're paying good money for a reading.

[Thereca]

Just offering observations from the perspective of someone who has been read and had to pay even a friend for the reading.
While I very much felt my friend deserved compensation as does any one who is sought out to read for someone, and I feel it did not have any bearing on my readiing. I was in part hurt by my friend saying flat out you need to give me $35.00 for the reading. because I knew she knew how little actual money I had to live on, and she knew how badly I needed the reading. I think you should most definitely should be compensated you give they give back, but from this sides point of view make it a tip jar or a "suggested donation of $__._or what you can give in return"

[AlAskendir]

Ok Here's the deal...I was in my local new age shop and was offered a position there reading Tarot!! I am very excited (and nervous) about being asked!! Although I could really use some extra money I don't feel all that comfortable charging for readings. It's not that I think it is unethical or anything...it just feels weird!! I told the woman I would think about it and let her know. It would be a great opportunity for me to expand and meet some people! What do you all think?

Go for it! I've done it myself in the past, and nothing makes people pay attention to the message they are given like having to pay for it. The messages conveyed are at least as valuable as those of psychologists and counselors. You might want to apply a 'sliding scale' to discourage those who want a reading every day on the same question.

[Amber Wynd]

Just offering observations from the perspective of someone who has been read and had to pay even a friend for the reading.
While I very much felt my friend deserved compensation as does any one who is sought out to read for someone, and I feel it did not have any bearing on my readiing. I was in part hurt by my friend saying flat out you need to give me $35.00 for the reading. because I knew she knew how little actual money I had to live on, and she knew how badly I needed the reading. I think you should most definitely should be compensated you give they give back, but from this sides point of view make it a tip jar or a "suggested donation of $__._or what you can give in return"

I can certainly see how you felt that way. When I read for a friend, I usually ask them to offer something in trade - like a story, a candle, a drawing or something they baked. What I've found is that my true friends don't ask me to read for them unless they're really in need. With a many of my clients, though, it's sad but true that the more you charge, the more attention they pay and the nicer they are to the reader.

[Qeniheru]

Hmm. I don't charge anything for friends (in my mind, I am helping people I care about :) ), but on Second Life I charge 250 Lindens (approx. $1.19) per reading. I wouldn't charge anything, but I need a Second Life income unless I want to invest real cash into the game.

[Amber Wynd]

I didn't used to ask my friends for anything in return. But then several people told me they felt uncomfortable because they'd gotten lots of readings for free and didn't feel they could ask whenever they needed one without taking advantage. So I started telling my friends they could give me something small in exchange if they wanted to. Now they don't have to feel beholden and I don't have to be weirded out by taking money from my friends. I couldn't feel okay about that.

[Meabh23]

I know this is bad but

I just read the damned cards for people and care less about what they really mean. I don't really get into them. But somehow they work for the people who ask me questions. I still can't stomach taking their money though. Not yet anyway.

Perhaps I should though, yeah? I mean they do take my time.

[Amber Wynd]

Everybody has a different reading style. As long as your style works for the people who ask the questions, that's all that matters. Same with taking money.......whatever feels right to you that's important.

[Meabh23]

So hitting them over the head with a brick would be okay if they refuse to see the obvious?

[Ma'at's_Feather]

Ok Here's the deal...I was in my local new age shop and was offered a position there reading Tarot!! I am very excited (and nervous) about being asked!! Although I could really use some extra money I don't feel all that comfortable charging for readings. It's not that I think it is unethical or anything...it just feels weird!! I told the woman I would think about it and let her know. It would be a great opportunity for me to expand and meet some people! What do you all think?


i dont think there is anything wrong with accepting money for your gift. I was a reader in New Orleans and i accepted donations. though i never charged (had a specific set price) it was all donation. the way i figure it is, you are offering a service. you should be paid for your work. there is a demand for what you have to supply. i say take the job. if it continues to bother you you could always give your earnings back to your community somehow.

[WiccanGoddess]

I've done tarot readings for low costs before, but the most of the time when I do them, it's in school, and that would be considered gambling, so I do it for free.

[Morrigan_Wolfwind]

I don't do readings because I've just started Tarot, but if I get accurate enough at reading, or if I need money, (and I'm a legal adult) I think I'd start charging for readings, like 10$ or something. Or a donation, like what Thereca said. Donations might weed out the people who actually want to do something from people just doing it because it's popular or "cool". (There was a blood drive at my school recently. I doubt you'd give blood for either of those reasons :D.)

And I think it depends on how much you charge. I've seen a few ads that say readings cost at least 24 dollars. That is just insane to me, because I wouldn't pay over twenty dollars for a reading.

[Amber Wynd]

I felt the same way when I started giving readings, and that slowly changed as I started doing readings full time. I've given over 12,000 professional readings and that takes a toll energy-wise. The problem is that once word gets around that you read tarot, everybody wants a free reading, even people you don't know very well, if at all. Friends are a different story because there's always an exchange of affection and caring between friends. I think most people don't mean to be an energy drain, it's just that they don't see it reading the cards as "real" work and they don't view the reader's time as valuable. From my point of view, time and energy are two of the most valuable things I have and I price my readings accordingly.

[Meadhbh]

I think its fine to charge for readings. It is a service just like anything else you may get done during the day. People don't mind paying to have their hair cut because it take up the time and energy of the stylist. It does the same thing to a tarot card reader and if they choose to get something in return for it then I say go ahead and charge away.

[Ladylepgirl]

I'd never think of charging friends and family, but now that I am doing it online for people, I'd absolutely charge for readings based on what I think is fair. If they can't afford the rate though, i do make exceptions and cut it down a bit.

[Qumran]

I never understood why some people say you shouldn't charge for "spiritual" services. Now DON'T GET ME WRONG!- I'm NOT saying you shouldn't do readings for friends or family or even strangers who can't afford to pay you....

BUT...

If you have studied and developed skill with Tarot, I see nothing wrong with charging - you charge for other gifts and skills you use when you go to work right?

[Ladylepgirl]

No i agree with you. You have to make a living right? Its no different than any other job. I wouldn't charge family or friends though. Its just not me, but for someone that isn't a friends, I'd give them a good rate. I don't charge more than $60 an hour for a session. Pretty good I think.

[Amber Wynd]

No i agree with you. You have to make a living right? Its no different than any other job. I wouldn't charge family or friends though. Its just not me, but for someone that isn't a friends, I'd give them a good rate. I don't charge more than $60 an hour for a session. Pretty good I think.
Yeah, that's a very reasonable rate. I never mind paying someone else to read for me because it takes their time and energy. Not only that, but the information and peace of mind that comes from a good reading is much more valuable than money.

[AkashaW]

I was taught that accepting money for teaching any aspect of the Craft is unethical, and therefore, I feel it is wrong to charge for Tarot readings (since, in my view, using the Tarot is a way to open up to the spirit world, which is teaching the Craft). HOWEVER... I bear no ill will toward anyone who feels differently. I don't expect anyone (except those who choose to come under my tutelage) to adhere to my feelings in this regard. I recognize that others don't view Tarot as I do, and that others may, indeed, see nothing wrong with charging for teaching the Craft. Different points of view can exist within the Craft community - and we all have the right to think that someone else is wrong, as long as we don't attempt to coerce them to our point of view. That's my opinion anyway - and yes, I recognize that others may think my opinions are wrong. I don't mind that, with, of course, the same caveat against any attempt to force another opinion on me. *G*

[Ladylepgirl]

It honestly depends for me on the customer. If its in the community for a function or such I wouldn't ask for anything. But or outsiders that aren't sure whether they believe and all, I would charge something. At least a donation or something. I mean, its your time and energy like you say and it is a way to live for some of us. :)

[Qumran]

I was taught that accepting money for teaching any aspect of the Craft is unethical, and therefore, I feel it is wrong to charge for Tarot readings (since, in my view, using the Tarot is a way to open up to the spirit world, which is teaching the Craft). HOWEVER... I bear no ill will toward anyone who feels differently. I don't expect anyone (except those who choose to come under my tutelage) to adhere to my feelings in this regard. I recognize that others don't view Tarot as I do, and that others may, indeed, see nothing wrong with charging for teaching the Craft. Different points of view can exist within the Craft community - and we all have the right to think that someone else is wrong, as long as we don't attempt to coerce them to our point of view. That's my opinion anyway - and yes, I recognize that others may think my opinions are wrong. I don't mind that, with, of course, the same caveat against any attempt to force another opinion on me. *G*

Your reply is balanced and wise. How refreshing! If only MORE people would have your 'live and let live' attitude..... thank you!

On the other hand...

I own a lovely little store where 75% of my income comes from tarot reading. I help many people who are grateful to me and recommend their friends and family. I have many times been called "the poor man's therapist" because along with the reading they get counsel and emotional support.

If I believed it was unethical to recieve payment for these "spiritual" services, whatever gifts I posses would be minimized almost to nothing as I might end up working for Walmart or fixing someone's car to pay my bills. There is nothing wrong with these jobs, of course, but if someone has a gift, should it not be used to greatest advantage? In this day and age, I could never afford to help people as I do if I did not charge.

I agree with much of what you say, but in my readings I don't bullsh*t anyone and my main motivation is not money at all. I do it for the love...I charge because I can't live for free.

Like you, I do not fault anyone who thinks differently - Bless you and your path!

[Ancient Wisdom]

I say.....GO FOR IT!! Your yalented, you need the money you have a good oportunity so just go for it!:boing: :boing:

[SacredWithin]

Depends on how I feel and how things are going (i.e. if I'm broke or what). Most of the time I've done readings, it was for free. It's rare that I do charge anyway. But I would never try to cheat anyone for any reason. That's foolish and unethical. My main concern is to help others. And if I wish to make money, I would do it doing what I like doing. And if it includes something spiritual, then so be it. Not many seem to have a problem buying or selling religious items anyway, so how would providing services be that much different?

[PeatBog]

One way of receiving money for readings, that I read about on Aeclectic, is to put out a small donation box, with a sign saying something to the effect that querent, if pleased with their reading, may leave whatever amount they wish, if any. The reader who suggested this said they left alot of money for him.

[Amber Wynd]

That seems like a really good idea. I do alright with the money issue when it comes to my phone readings because the customers pre-pay before they ever get on the phone and someone else collects the money, etc. Especially since there are lots of other readers and a huge range of prices for them to choose from. But I have a hard time asking for money when I'm doing in-person tarot readings.

This would be a good solution for someone like me. The querants can leave what they feel they can afford and I don't have to be uncomfortable thinking I'm asking for something they don't have to give.

[business voodoo]

ooooohhh the money issue ...
i voted 'absolutely not' ... i don't think its wrong for anyone to do something they are comfortable doing. we live in a commodity economy, and knowledge and information is something people pay lots of people lots of money for ... why not the knowledge and information that can be gleaned by a good tarot reader.

personally, i am not trying to be a part of the commodity economy that prevails on planet earth, and work with the gift economy ... a challenge for sure because so much of our established patterns, habits and beliefs are based on commodified value that is based on a perception of worth ... so, currently i struggle to understand in my practice what the gift economy is and a feeling of not being taken advantage of (a feeling which i believe has NO place in the gift economy, but its hard to let that pattern of thought go).

[~Agnes~]

I dont think its wrong at all to charge while reading the cards. According to me, you balance out your energy with the querent by charging money.

[pania]

my vote came up wrong as absolutely yes unethical ummm poll probs?

my answers no.

[CzechWoods]

One way of receiving money for readings, that I read about on Aeclectic, is to put out a small donation box, with a sign saying something to the effect that querent, if pleased with their reading, may leave whatever amount they wish, if any. The reader who suggested this said they left alot of money for him.

works only with ethical people.

my sad experience on this is, that people from the area i live at will give little to nothing, yet expect everything in return

i went through these stages:
i used to do a 'FREE' READINGS DAY once a month in chatrooms. after having done a reading, and asked people to DONATE to a womens shelter or animal shelter of their choice, if they liked the reading.
most people were touched by this idea, yet still about 3 of 10 told me, "ooh good, i have already donated, so this reading is for free". yeah right
i have no clue though, how many actually have donated and how much
the other rule was: just one question per person and day. when people wanted further information, i asked them to get a paid reading. guess how many took that option ?
zilch
yet i got to hear this interesting sentence quite alot. "why should i pay, i can come back next time and get it for free"
so much for the donation part also

i used to charge by reading. meaning there were different types of reading, that cost between as little as 5 usd to about 120 usd, depending on how detailed they were

i stopped this, because some people dont come to an end. so sometimes, you had to work 3 hours explaining everything to some people, who also liked telling you all about their experiences, and suffereings and whatnots, charging like 30 usd, while others got the huge reading for 120 usd, yet were done in 1 hour max.

now i am charging per minute, so these, who are quick can get a good reading for less than 30 usd, and those who want to tell you all kinds of stories, will have to pay for the time they are keeping me busy.

true, that this way, some people dont get a reading at all, but if you are not willing to give anything back, you cant expect to get service in the first place

[Tabbykitty]

charge by all means! All services rendered by you should be paid for.

I used to do "free" readings when I first started out cos it was fun, but like czechwoods, i ran into the people who need someone to listen to them more than they need a reading. They are taking up ur time and you are probably playing the part of informal therapist/counsellor for them.... its certainly a profession that should certainly recieve adequate compensation for the time spent.

[HungryJoe]

Back in the day when I was pretty much living on the street I would to readings for groups of people who would feed me and give me a place to crash for a few nights. I never really asked for that in exchange, I just happened to come by at the right times.

I've got very drunk because of readings too. I moved into my friends house and his girlfriend (now his wife) was having a "girls night". They called up and wanted me to come over to do readings, I didn't want to but he convinced me to go and it ended in me drinking wine while reading cards all night. That was a good night.

[rawrTigress]

I think you should go for it. I don't see anything wrong with charging for tarot readings. Reading tarot requires skill and talent, just like painting a picture. As long as you aren't taking advantage of people (charging a ridiculous amount) then I don't see anything wrong with it. You should go for it! It would be a blast. You would learn so much more and meet interesting people. Also it would be a great chance to help a lot of people.

I've been reading only for four years. I do readings everywhere I go and offer them to people. I don't charge but sometimes people would give me money just because they wanted to and enjoyed their reading. I never suggest it. My fav thing about tarot reading is being able to help others.

<3 Sarah

[Glory]

Tarot has value. I'm a pretty morally ambiguous person, but for example, I would never steal a Tarot deck, or borrow one without permission from it's owner.

People need to accept that money, these days, isn't all evil, and wishing to gain money does not mean you're evil either. For me, it's about trade. My cards are not cheap, and what they stand for is not worthless. I don't really mind how big or small the fee is, as long as something is given.

Of course, favours can be handed out, I do this all the time for friends and family. But for strangers, something should be paid - whether it be a dollar, or a gift.

[can]

Well this might help, I repair computers for little money. If you don't won't to charge people money then only ask for a little.

[DarkWater]

I do hope it's not or I'd be out of pocket. I've spent years developing my skill I consider myself a crafts woman. If I was a carpenter and I built someone a cabinet I would get paid for that. Carpentry is a skilled job, reading Tarot is a skilled job of course you should get paid for it.

[Sethserpenthus]

Well, I give family, friends and usually friends of friends and friends of family free readings. Random people I charge a couple bucks (nothing dramatic) just because I don't have all the time in the world and I don't want them to keep asking for readings every two hours.

As far as it being ethical... I don't consider charging for a reading any more unethical than charging for any other service. If somebody is good enough at Tarot to make a living off of it, good for them really.

[Amythyst]

Ok Here's the deal...I was in my local new age shop and was offered a position there reading Tarot!! I am very excited (and nervous) about being asked!! Although I could really use some extra money I don't feel all that comfortable charging for readings. It's not that I think it is unethical or anything...it just feels weird!! I told the woman I would think about it and let her know. It would be a great opportunity for me to expand and meet some people! What do you all think?


I use to question the ethics of charging for tarot reading myself, until I read for the local book store during their Harry Potter book parties. It's tiring, demanding, time consuming, and energy draining. The line of people outside my small space was four deep and so crowded that my kids couldn't get to me to talk to me while I was in there. After five hours of hectic nonstop tarot reading, I have changed my mind.

It's my time and energy and I'm entitled to be compensated for it.

I gave my last free reading.