Winning a sweepstakes is wonderful. Never seeing that prize – not so much. What can you do to make sure that you receive a prize that you have won?
The first thing you should do is be aware of the Rules for that sweepstakes. Some sweepstakes, often the blog ones, require that you come back to their website to see if you won. If you don't return and claim the prize, you'll never even know you won. Take note of a sweep that you need to revisit. You may also want to google your name or username periodically to see if any wins pop up.
More on the Rules. Read them. If the sponsor won't deliver to a PO box, make sure you list a street address. If the winning announcement is being sent by text message, remember to list your cell number and check your messages. Again, read the Rules.
Another simple but effective hint: proofread. Make it easy for the sponsor to find you. If you mistype your address, that prize may never find you. Also, if you are using an autofill program: proofread before submitting the form. Sometimes autofill programs put information in the wrong fields. No one wants to forfeit a prize because the sponsor couldn't reach you.
You got a winning notice in email? Save it! A winning screen came up? Screen print and save it. If the win fails to show up in a reasonable amount of time, you may need to contact the sponsor. Proof of your win will make it easier for the sponsor to award it. If you do need to contact a sponsor or prizing agency, please, be polite. We certainly hope you get your prize, and we appreciate the sponsors and want them to keep offering new sweepstakes.
why did I wi a prize?
The sponsor will usually contact you if you won a prize. Make it easy for them to find you by giving them all the information they need. Also, when you enter a sweepstakes, read the entry form. Some sweepstakes specify that you need to return to the website to see whether or not you won. If you enter a sweepstakes like this, remember to return to the site so you can claim your prize if you won.