Sweepstakes refer to a type of giveaway or contest that awards one or more prizes to the winners. If you’ve never entered sweepstakes in the past, this guide will help you find great sweepstakes and avoid common mistakes.
Sweepstakes are free to enter
Usually, sweepstakes winners are randomly selected by the company. While the selection process may seem a lot like that of a lottery, there is one important difference - sweepstakes are free to enter, by law.
So, when you are browsing websites and social media to find new sweepstakes to enter, ensure that you are not asked to make a payment. When you go through the rules, look out for terms that indicate that no purchase is necessary. If the sweepstake website or app is asking you to make a payment, it’s best to not proceed with your entry.
Bonus entries
Very often, sweepstakes companies will restrict how many entries you can submit. But, it’s quite common for these companies to award additional entries to people who complete certain tasks. Remember that you shouldn’t have to pay to submit an additional entry. Common tasks that can get you additional entries include sharing information about the sweepstakes with family and friends, downloading a certain app, or following the company’s social media account.
Sweepstakes rules
When you find new sweepstakes, it’s important that you go through the rules. Pay close attention to things like how often entries can be submitted, the start and end date of the sweepstakes, how the company will notify you if you win, etc.
Keep track of your emails
Sweepstakes companies will usually contact winners by email or phone. Ensure you keep a tab of your emails so you don’t end up missing a prize notification. It’s also a good idea to check your spam folder. If you plan to enter multiple giveaways, you could create a separate email address solely meant for sweepstakes. Keep an eye out for calls or texts from sweepstakes companies as well.
