A. In my opinion, no, you do not. With or without is O.K. However, it doesn't take too long, so if you want to include them, go ahead.

Q. In some rules, I see a TM mark or "R" mark in the address, or in the words to be hand printed on the qualifier. Do I need to include these?

A. The reason the rules may list a registration or trademark, is because when their brand name appears in print, the marks are supposed to be shown in order for them to protect their name. It doesn't mean that you have to include them in YOUR entry. However, there are some people that feel that some judges may disqualify an entry if the marks are not included. If it makes you feel better, then include them. Personally, I do not.

Q. If the rules state, "a plain piece of paper", without specifying size, what size should I use?

A. Any size is permissible. I like to use 8-1/2" x 11" sheets.

Q. If the rules state, "plain paper or a postcard", which is best?

A. Plain paper in a large envelope is the way I usually do it. However, if postage costs are a problem with you, you can send postcards a lot cheaper than envelopes.

Q. If the papers I buy to use as qualifiers are not exactly 3" x 5", would this disqualify me?

A. Variations up to 1/16" should be acceptable, some persons even say 1/8". However, why take a chance? I would try to use as close to 3" x 5" as possible.

Q. The size #10 envelopes I just bought are slightly bigger (or smaller) than 4-1/8" x 9-1/2". Won't I be disqualified if the rules say to use size #10 envelopes?

A. No! Industry standards allow for 1/16" tolerance. It even states in the Postal Manual that dimensions may vary 1/16" either way. No judging agency is going to spend the time and money to measure all the envelopes to see if they are a fraction of an inch off!

Q. Instead of saying to "print" or "hand print" my entry, some rules say to "write" or "hand write". Do I have to use script style writing, or can I print?

A. You may "print", in fact I recommend it. Printing is one form of writing, and much easier to read. Judges are interested in legibility, and some persons' script style writing is not easy to decipher.

Q. Is it right to send more than one entry in an envelope so I can save postage?

A. No. Most sweepstakes rules plainly state, "only one entry per envelope." But even if they don't, winners are usually drawn before the envelopes are opened so you could have a hundred entry blanks in one envelope and it could count as just one.

Q. Can I use a 3" x 5" card when the rules state to "use a 3" x 5" plain piece of paper"?

A. Yes, because cards are thick paper. I have won using cards and others have, too. I don't use them exclusively, however, as they are more expensive than plain paper. When I do use them, it's usually to give more weight or substance to my entry, or when the rules state to use a 3" x 5" card. Do not use paper, however, if a card is specified.

Q. The rules often state, "Use a plain 3" x 5" card." Could I use index cards that are lightly ruled on one or both sides?

A. I would not recommend it. There are so many different judging agencies that interpret things differently. Why take a chance? Use unlined.

Q. Could the envelopes I use for the sweepstakes have my return address printed on them?

A. Yes, they could. However, they are more expensive than return address labels or a rubber stamp. Actually, no return address need be used at all, but I recommend that you DO include it. For one thing, if you made a mistake in the address, it would go to the Dead Letter Office, instead of being returned to you. If it was returned to you, you could make the necessary corrections in your remaining entries, otherwise all your time and postage would be lost.

Q. Can I use carbon paper or photocopies or my computer to make multiple entries?

A. I would not recommend it. Many sweeps rules even state that "mechanically produced entries will be disqualified" or something to that effect. Always do each entry, qualifier and envelope separately.

Q. What if I don't have a phone, and rules ask for a phone number?

A. Then just write "no phone." You won't be disqualified unless the rules state that winners HAVE to be contacted by phone. The same goes when they ask for a daytime and evening phone number. If your numbers or both the same, or if you have one but not the other, just say so. They sometimes include the phone rule to make it easier to contact the big winners.