Social casino vs. sweepstakes casino: what’s the difference
A social casino is play-for-fun only; a sweepstakes casino adds a redeemable coin you can cash out. How the two models differ on coins, prizes, legality, and tax.
Sweepstakes odds: how your chances of winning actually work
A calculator and a plain explanation of sweepstakes odds: prizes, total entries and your entries — and why the free entry route can’t legally lower your chances.
Sweepstakes tax calculator
Estimate the federal and state tax on a sweepstakes prize before you accept it. The prize is stacked on your other income to show the extra tax it creates.
Alternate method of entry (AMOE): what it is and how to use it
The alternate method of entry is the free, no-purchase route into a sweepstakes — required by law, with the same odds as any paid entry. How to use a mail-in AMOE.
Why are states banning sweepstakes casinos?
Why California, New York and a growing list of states are prohibiting sweepstakes casinos — the four arguments, the operators’ defense, and what it means for players.
“You won a prize” text or email — is it real?
Unsolicited “you’ve won” texts and emails are almost always a scam. The tells, what the senders are really after, and what to do if you get one.
How to claim a sweepstakes prize
What happens after a win notice: the affidavit, the W-9, the response deadline, and the 1099 in January — and why claiming a prize never costs you money.
State tax on prize winnings, by state
Which states tax prize winnings and roughly how much. The nine no-tax states, the highest-rate states, and what happens when a prize crosses state lines.
Taxes on non-cash prizes: cars, trips and dream homes
A car, a trip or a house is taxed on its fair market value as ordinary income — with no cash withheld. How the value is set and how to plan for the bill.
Sweepstakes official rules: what ARV, AMOE, and the fine print mean
The official rules are the contract. The five things to check before you enter, plus what ARV, AMOE, affidavit of eligibility, and alternate winner mean.