Most of us scroll past online giveaways thinking, “Nobody actually wins those.” But the truth is, they do. And some people win big. From grocery gift cards to full vacation packages, sweepstakes and giveaways are a surprisingly accessible way to earn extra perks, if you know where to look and how to avoid wasting your time.

Why Giveaways Are Worth Considering

• Free to enter: Most require only your name and email
• High-value prizes: Gift cards, tech, groceries, or even cars and cash
• Low effort: Most entries take 30 seconds or less
• Fun to try: Especially when you’re consistent and strategic

If you’re not relying on them as a financial plan, giveaways can become a rewarding bonus to your weekly routine.

Where to Find Legit Sweepstakes and Giveaways

1. National Brands and Retailers

Big brands often run promotional sweepstakes to build email lists or launch new products. These are typically safe and offer high-quality prizes.

Examples to look for:

• Grocery store gift cards
• Kitchen gadgets or cookware bundles
• Yearlong memberships (Costco, Sam’s Club, etc.)
• Cash prizes ($500–$5,000)

Where to find them: Brand websites and email newsletters, social media accounts, or directories like Sweepstakes Fanatics.

2. Grocery and Drugstore Loyalty Programs

Many supermarkets and pharmacies run weekly or monthly giveaways, and you may already be eligible if you use their loyalty card.

Examples:

• Kroger’s “Receipt Surveys” (win $100 or $5,000 gift card)
• CVS ExtraCare and Walgreens Balance Rewards sweepstakes
• Receipt-based contests through Fetch or Ibotta

Tip: Always complete receipt surveys within 7 days of purchase.

3. Local Radio Stations and News Sites

Local giveaways tend to have much higher odds since fewer people enter.

Prizes might include:

• Gas cards
• Restaurant gift cards
• Free admission to events or attractions
• Local business gift bundles

How to find them: Search your city name + “contest” or “giveaway”, and follow local news outlets and DJs on social media.

4. Recurring National Giveaways

Some sweepstakes run monthly, quarterly, or even daily.

• HGTV Dream Home Giveaway
• Publishers Clearing House (PCH)
• LendingTree Sweepstakes
• Credit Karma “Instant Win” games

5. Social Media Giveaways

Instagram and Facebook giveaways can be real, but they can also be spammy. Look for:

• Simple requirements: follow, like, comment or tag
• No requests for payment or sensitive info
• Recent engagement and real comments

Tip: Search hashtags like #giveaway, #contest, or #sweepstakes + your interests.

How to Spot a Scam

• Never pay to enter
• Don’t give out full Social Security number or banking info
• Check for legitimate sponsor contact info and terms
• Watch for fake social media accounts
• Be skeptical of “You’ve already won!” messages if you never entered

Entry Tips to Improve Your Odds (and Sanity)

• Create a sweepstakes-only email address
• Set aside 10–15 minutes a few times a week
• Track recurring contests on a calendar or spreadsheet
• Join sweepstakes communities or Facebook groups
• Always read the fine print

Realistic Expectations

Winning isn’t guaranteed, but consistency can pay off. Some people win $50 gift cards or groceries every few months. Others score bigger — $500, an iPad, a trip. Even one decent win a year makes your time worthwhile.

Conclusion

You won’t build a career from sweepstakes, but you can absolutely earn a little extra or win something meaningful with very little effort. The key is knowing where to look, avoiding scams, and staying consistent. Next time you see a chance to win groceries, gas, or even a vacation, go ahead and apply. People really do win, and there’s no reason it can’t be you.