What Is the Main Difference Between a Contest, Sweepstakes, and Lottery?
The three differ in how winners are picked and whether entrants pay.
- Contest: winners are chosen on merit, such as judged photos or a "25 words or less" entry.
- Sweepstakes: winners are drawn at random, and entry has to be free.
- Lottery: payment, chance and a prize all appear together. Private businesses generally can't run one without government approval.
Add payment to a sweepstakes and you've built a lottery, so a free alternative method of entry (AMOE) matters in places that require one. A contest that relies on skill sits outside that problem, but you still need clear judging criteria.
In Gleam, open the Setup tab and go to Terms & Conditions. The field Winners will be selected by is Random Draw by default. Change it if you're using a judging panel or a popular vote. If an Action requires payment, turn on A Purchase or Donation is Required to Complete This Action so we add a free entry alternative for entrants in countries where it's required.
This isn't legal advice. Read our full breakdown of contests, sweepstakes and lotteries for more detail.
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What Are the Rules for Running a Giveaway on Instagram?
Instagram requires a release and a no-sponsorship acknowledgement from entrants, clear terms, and a stated winner-selection method.