Indiana Contest and Sweepstakes Laws

In Indiana, contests and sweepstakes are allowed when they are properly structured to avoid falling within the definition of an illegal lottery. Under Indiana law, a lottery includes the elements of prize, chance, and consideration. To ensure compliance, sweepstakes typically remove consideration by offering a Free Alternative Method of Entry (AMOE), and contests remove chance by requiring skill-based participation.

Indiana law requires businesses to comply with the Indiana Deceptive Consumer Sales Act, meaning all material terms must be disclosed clearly, including how to enter, eligibility, odds of winning, and full prize descriptions. Promotions must not require a purchase or payment to enter or win, and any implication that a participant has won when they have not is strictly prohibited.

While there is no general sweepstakes registration requirement in Indiana, companies operating raffles or other gambling-related promotions must be cautious, particularly nonprofit organizations that may be subject to additional licensing requirements. Businesses should structure all promotions transparently to protect both consumers and their own legal standing. Sources:

• Indiana Code Title 35, Article 45 – Offenses Against Public Health, Order, and Decency
• Indiana Attorney General – Consumer Protection Division
• Indiana Deceptive Consumer Sales Act