Do I Need Official Rules to Run a Giveaway Legally?

Official rules are required to run a giveaway legally because they define how participants can enter, who is eligible, and how winners are selected. Clear rules protect both the organiser and participants by setting expectations upfront and reducing disputes.

At a minimum, giveaway rules should include eligibility criteria, entry methods, start and end dates, prize descriptions, prize value where required, and how winners will be chosen and notified. These disclosures ensure transparency and help your promotion comply with consumer protection laws.

In the United States, most sweepstakes are considered chance-based promotions. Because of this, they must be free to enter. If a purchase or payment is involved, you are required to offer an AMOE (Alternate Method of Entry) so that paid and free entries have equal odds and the promotion is not classified as an illegal lottery.

Skill-based contests are treated differently. Since winners are selected based on merit rather than chance, some regions allow paid entry. However, certain U.S. states still impose additional requirements, which makes it important to check local laws before launching.

Platform rules also apply. Social networks like Instagram require disclosures stating that the promotion is not sponsored, endorsed, or administered by the platform. Failing to include these statements can result in your giveaway being removed, even if it meets legal requirements.

Always review both local laws and platform policies before launching. See our U.S. giveaway law breakdown for a detailed overview of legal and platform-specific requirements.