SWEEPSTAKES

* Pick your sweepstakes carefully. Avoid sweepstakes with
only one major prize and not very many small ones.

* Local sweepstakes are the easiest to win because of a
limited number of entries. Look for these at grocery
stores, gas stations, local radio stations, etc.

* Don't wait until the last minute to send in your entry.
Sweepstakes will close the designated P.O. Box on the date
it is stated.

* Don't send in multiple entries all at one time. Space out
your entries throughout the life of the sweepstakes. It
will give you a better chance of being drawn if your
entries are mixed randomly throughout the other entries
and not clustered in one spot.

* It helps to use post-it notes reminding you of due dates
if you prepare your entries ahead of the due dates.

* If the sweepstakes allows you to enter several different
ways (postcards, internet, etc.) you should enter every
way possible.

* Use your return address in case an address error was made.
You might get it back in time to send it in.

* Always keep plenty of 3x5 cards on hand in case you have
extra time to complete a few more entries.

* If a contest has a lame grand prize, but a lot of smaller
good prizes, enter anyway. Small prizes can make great
gifts!

* Return labels are a smart thing to have and saves time.

* Unless otherwise noted, use envelopes that are different
sizes and colors. You never know what a judge is looking
for in an entry. Check with your local card stores for a
discounted price on colored envelopes.

* Use different stamps for each envelope.

* STAY ORGANIZED. For those dedicated, keep a planner to remind you of what contests are going on, how many times
you sent in an entry, when they are to close, and what the
prizes are.

* Try using postcards or 3x5 cards that have something to do
with the sweepstakes itself. For example, cut the side
of a Pepsi carton down to a 3x5 card to enter a Pepsi
sweepstakes.

* Decorate plain white envelopes with doodles, drawings,
stickers, anything to gain attention.

* Don't ever leave out information that is requested. If
it asks for a fax number and you don't have one, write
that on the entry.

* Don't use pens and markers that may smudge. Keep your
entries neat and clearly legible.

* Remember what kind of envelopes you use so when you win,
you know what works.

* If you are entering a sweepstakes multiple times, write
them all at once to make it easier and faster. Just don't
send them all together.

* Cut out corners or add designs to the edges of your 3x5
cards. Again, anything to make your entry stand out.

* Be on the lookout for sweepstakes at local events (flea
markets, fairs, etc.)that do not look right. Long
distance companies and shady travel agencies may put on
these sweepstakes on only to gain your address and
telephone numbers to solicit you later.

* Lastly, don't burn yourself out on sending in entries and
don't rely on it for income. This should be just a hobby
and an opportunity to get something for nothing!