There are several methods available for entering sweepstakes. Some can be entered with online methods, others using standard entry forms available through various venues (such as at stores carrying the sponsor's goods, or on the labels of the sponsor's products), and still others utilizing standard postal methods. If you have a cell phone, there is also a growing trend towards entry through text messaging.

Most sweepstakes will offer multiple means of entry. Many have both an online entry form, and an offline address to send entries via postal methods. The way you choose to enter is merely a matter of personal preference, and may also have to do with the tools you have available. If you are new to sweepstaking, and wish to enter through multiple venues, there are a few basic items that will get you started effortlessly and with ease.

Obviously, anyone who has access to a computer with online services can enter online sweepstakes, and someone with a cell phone can use text messaging. For postal methods, there are a few supplies that are generally accepted as standard throughout the industry, and are commonly used items according to the official rules of most sweepstakes. These supplies can easily be found in the office supply section of almost any department store, or at your local post office.

If you have not yet done it, and wish to add postal entry to your repertoire of entry methods, this simple list of tools will get you started, and the rest is up to you!

Blank 3"x5" Cards

These are used as an entry form for filling out personal information, such as your name and address, and must be the type without any lines. These are sometimes referred to as index cards.

Blank 3"x5" Papers

When this is specified, it must be paper (not the stiff cards) in order to be qualified for entry.

Number 10 Envelopes

These are standard 4 1/8 x 9 1/2 inch business sized envelopes. If no specific size is stated in the rules, others are acceptable, however, keeping these on hand is a good idea, as many sweepstakes will specify this size as a requirement for entry. Of course, you will also need stamps to go along with this method of entry.

Postcards

You can buy these already stamped at your post office. They come in a standard size of 3 1/2 x 5 1/2 inches. Occasionally official rules will specify using a different size, such as 4x6 inches, however, this is the exception rather than the rule.

In a nutshell, though no one of these things is absolutely required in order to enter sweepstakes, with these supplies on hand, you will have enough to give yourself a well-rounded realm of opportunity with multiple means of entry.