What is a sweepstake entry?
A sweepstake is a type of contest where a prize or prizes may be awarded to a winner or winners. Sweepstakes began as a form of lottery that were tied to products sold. In response, the FCC and FTC refined U.S. broadcasting laws (creating the anti-lottery laws).
Can you charge to enter sweepstakes?
It’s true that most companies hope that their giveaways will drive sales. But in the United States, you can’t make entering contingent on giving money to the sponsoring company — it’s illegal. You’ll also see a related disclaimer in sweepstakes rules: “A purchase will not affect your chances of winning.”
How do you enter a sweepstakes in the mail?
Many mail-in sweepstakes require entrants to send their forms in envelopes. The most commonly-requested size is the #10 envelope, also known as a business-sized envelope. It’s a good idea to have a large supply on hand before you get started.
How do you enter sweepstakes without purchase?
Companies can use a platform such as Random.org to ensure the drawings for sweepstakes are completely random and compliant with rules. They also must include a disclaimer that says “no purchase necessary” or offer an alternative method of entry, such as a website.
Why can you enter sweepstakes without purchase?
When customers don’t have to buy anything, they can use your sweepstakes or giveaway to make a little money of their own. Because they aren’t buying anything, any prize they win is a profit for them.
How do I run a legal sweepstakes?
Other important U.S. laws and regulations require you to:
- Provide free alternate means of entry if you allow users to enter sweepstakes with a purchase.
- Announce the opening and closing dates for entries.
- Disclose when and how winners will be selected.
- Announce when prizes will be awarded.
- Contact all winning entrants.
What are good giveaway rules?
Include participation restrictions — such as age and location. Write clear guidelines on how to enter. Outline how and when the winner(s) will be chosen. Share details about how and when the winner(s) will be announced and how/when winner should claim prize.
Do all sweepstakes have no purchase necessary?
Games of Chance, which are more commonly referred to as Giveaways or Sweepstakes are a type of prize promotion you can legally run as a business without violating No Purchase Necessary laws.
What are the rules for entering a sweepstakes?
The entry must fulfill all sweepstakes requirements, as specified, to be eligible to win a prize. Entries that are not complete or do not adhere to the rules or specifications may be disqualified at the sole discretion of [company name]. You may enter only once and you must fill in the information requested.
What is the sweepstakes disclaimer?
DISCLAIMER: This is a set of standard sweepstakes rules that will help you quickly deploy your sweepstakes. HOWEVER, most states and countries have variations in their laws and regulations regarding sweepstakes. We assume no responsibility for whether you are in compliance with the law.
Is the sweepstakes only open to US residents?
The sweepstakes is only open to legal residents of [eligible countries] and is void where prohibited by law.
How are winners of the sweepstakes selected?
Winner selection and notification: Winners of the Sweepstakes will be selected in a random drawing under the supervision of the Sponsor.