5 Tips To Enter Contests

Contests are different from sweepstakes. They require a skill and come in many forms like writing in different genres, counting a jar of coins or guessing a hi-lo jackpot. The list goes on and on. My 5 tips will help you get starting with contesting.

1. Enter online contests. Most contests are posted online and submissions are accepted online unless there is a purchase connected with it. Then it would have to be mailed in.

2. Enter contests that are suited to your skill level and interests. You might be interested in the currently running worldwide search for a torchbearer in the Olympic games that will be held in China. The contest starts with a 50 word or less essay about yourself and the finalists will be sending in an audio video about themselves. Maybe mathematical or guessing games are more your cup of tea. There are innumerable choices out there to fit anybody’s needs.

3. Consider the tax consequences before you enter a contest. There are no problems when the prize is cash. You pay taxes on the federal and local level for  the cash you receive  and the matter is closed. However if the prize consists of merchandise or services you have to declare the fair market value which does not always match the contest sponsor’s declaration. The taxes have to be paid in cash.

4. Surround yourself with resources. For writing contests  acquire a good dictionary, a thesaurus, a lexicon and paper and pen as required. Invest in sweepstakes- and contest books, attend workshops in your subject area, join a contest club and attend conventions.

5. Meet the deadline. A wall calendar will help you keep track when contest entries are due. You can have the best entry, but if you miss the deadline, you are out of the game. Remember: YOU CANNOT WIN WITHOUT PARTICIPATION.

Tags: deadline, online contests, resources, tax consequence