Sweepstakes guides
Short, practical answers to the questions sweepers ask most.
- How to spot a fake sweepstakes (and a fake “you won” message)
The warning signs of sweepstakes scams, what real winner notifications look like, and what to do if you get a suspicious message.
5 min read - Why so many sweepstakes exclude Florida, New York and Rhode Island
Those three states have registration rules for some promotions, so many sponsors leave them out. Here's what the rules are and what it means for you.
4 min read - Do you pay taxes on sweepstakes prizes?
Yes: prizes are taxable income at their fair market value. What that means, when you'll get a 1099, and how to plan for a big win.
5 min read - How to read official rules (and what to check before you enter)
The handful of sections in every sweepstakes' official rules that tell you whether it's worth entering, and how often you can.
6 min read - A daily sweepstakes routine that doesn't eat your morning
How regular sweepers enter dozens of daily sweepstakes in about 15 minutes: setup, a daily list, and habits that keep you eligible.
5 min read - Instant win vs. sweepstakes vs. contests: what's the difference?
Sweepstakes, instant-win games and contests work differently: how winners are picked, how often you can play, and which give you better odds.
4 min read