The #1 Reason People Don’t Win (And How to Fix It)

One of the biggest reasons people think they’re unlucky in sweepstakes has nothing to do with luck at all. It’s because they’re unintentionally disqualifying themselves before their entry is ever seen.

It all comes down to one thing: following the rules exactly as written.

Sounds simple. But with the number of sweeps you enter, and how different each one can be, it’s easier than you think to miss a detail.

Here are the reminders that matter most:

If it says blue ink, use blue ink.

Black, gel pens, Sharpies… none of those count.

The sponsor isn’t being picky—they’re verifying compliance. Don’t give them a reason to toss your entry.

If it says “print,” print.

No cursive. No decorative handwriting.

Printed means block letters that are easy to read.

If it says postcard, use a postcard.

A piece of cardboard cut to postcard size is not the same thing.

Postcards have specific postal classifications. Sponsors—and the USPS—can tell the difference immediately.

If it specifies size, match the size exactly.

Not “close enough.” Not “basically the same.”

Exact is exact.

If it says one entry per day, don’t send two.

Multiple entries when they’re not allowed often get all of your entries removed.

If it gives a specific URL or method, use that method only.

Don’t assume every sweep allows social, search, or mail-in alternatives unless clearly stated.

Why this matters

Sponsors disqualify entries all the time. This is not done maliciously. It is done because they legally must enforce their rules. If an entry doesn’t meet the exact requirements, it’s removed from the drawing. And the participant never knows.

It’s not about being perfect. It’s about slowing down for a few seconds to make sure you’re giving each entry a real chance to win.

Quick Tip

Before entering, ask one question:

“Did I follow every rule exactly as written?”

If the answer is yes, you’ve just dramatically increased your odds.