Prizepot › The free entry route: what you are entitled to
The free entry route: what you are entitled to
If a prize draw sells tickets, the operator must also let people enter for free. The Gambling Commission sets out what that free route must be like.
Why there is a free route
A draw decided by chance where everyone must pay is a lottery, and lotteries are tightly regulated. To run a commercial draw legally, operators offer a free way in, so it is a "free draw". According to the Gambling Commission, entrants must be able to take part without paying.
What the free route must be like
The Commission's guidance says the free route:
- must be no more expensive and no less convenient than the paid route;
- must be sent at the normal postal rate, so a company cannot require special delivery for the free route if it uses first class for the paid route;
- must be promoted and displayed at the same level as the paid routes, and the choice must be visible to entrants;
- must not be treated differently from paid entries when the prize is selected.
What this means in practice
- You should be able to find the free entry details on the same page as the paid option, not hidden in small print.
- If the paid route is instant online, a free route that is only by post with long delays may be less convenient. That is a question of fact in each case.
- Free entries must have the same chance as paid ones.
If you use the free route
- Follow the instructions exactly, including the address and any required wording.
- Keep a copy of what you send, with the date, and any proof of posting.
- Use the stated closing date.
- Don't send multiple entries if the terms limit you to one.
The system works best if you also check the terms for how entries are counted.
If you cannot find it
If a draw takes payment and you cannot find a free route, you can ask the operator, and consider whether to enter. A promotion with no visible free route may be an illegal lottery. You can complain to the operator first. For advertising complaints, the ASA handles misleading promotions, and you can also contact the Gambling Commission; check their websites for how to do it.
Examples of what to look for
- A clear heading such as "Free entry" or "Enter by post" next to the "Buy tickets" button.
- A postal address and instructions that do not require stamps beyond the normal rate.
- Free entries included in the same draw as paid ones, not a separate draw with worse prizes.
- Terms that explain how entries are counted and how winners are selected.
If the free route is missing or buried, tell the operator, and consider reporting it to the Gambling Commission. The Commission can act against promotions that operate as illegal lotteries.
Free entry and prize competitions
A prize competition that depends on skill is different. It does not need a free route, but it must meet the skill requirements; see prize draw vs competition vs lottery.
Paying for entries
If you choose a paid route, treat it as spending. Decide a limit and stick to it. See comping tips for practical advice on budgets and records.
This is a summary of public guidance and is not legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
Does a prize draw have to offer free entry?
A draw run for commercial gain that is decided by chance needs a free route in order not to be an illegal lottery. The free route must be no more expensive and no less convenient than the paid route.
Can a free entry route require special delivery post?
The Commission says free entry must be sent at the normal rate, so special delivery cannot be required for the free route if first class is used for the paid route.
Do free entries have the same chance of winning?
Yes. The prize-selection system must not treat free and paid entries differently.