Enter Now: Contest Winnings Could Set You Up for Life

Most of us are in need of a little extra cash, right? Who among us would turn down the chance to win thousands of dollars with no catch? Well, if you invest the time and apply to any of these cash sweepstakes, you may be in for a financially sweet surprise. Sure, your chances aren’t sky high, but what’s the worst that can happen — you try again next year? At least you’ll know how it’s done.
The Time to Enter Cash Contests Is Now
Don’t delay in entering contests to win cash — the more you enter, the greater your chances of walking away with a check.
1. Food Network Grill Master Giveaway
Food Network is giving away $5,000 cash to help people throw the ultimate backyard BBQ with its Grill Master $5K Giveaway.
You can enter twice daily — once on the Food Network website and once on Food.com. The contest goes until September 8, 2026 and is open to residents of the 50 United States and Washington, D.C who are 21 and older.
Make Quick Cash Outside of Contests to Win Money
We all dream of winning a sweepstakes contest, but the odds are pretty slim. If you’re looking for ways to make cash outside of contests to win money, we’ve got some ideas for you. From completing short surveys to trying out apps, these are our favorite ways to make quick cash.
| Offer | What You Can Earn | What You Have to Do | Take Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| InboxDollars | $225/month | Complete short surveys | |
| FreeCash | $1,000/month | Simple online tasks | |
| Branded Surveys | $600+/month | Share your honest opinion | |
| Solitaire Cash | Up to $83 per win | Compete against other players | |
| Kashkick | $1,000/month | Try out apps |
2. HGTV Trick or Treat $5K Giveaway
HGTV is giving away $5,000 cash to help homeowners turn their homes into the ultimate haunted headquarters for Halloween with its Trick or Treat $5K Giveaway.
You can enter twice daily — once on the HGTV website and once on the TLC website. The contest goes until October 28, 2026 and is open to residents of the 50 United States and Washington, D.C who are 21 and older.
3. Publishers Clearing House
Even if you’re not big into sweepstakes, chances are you’ve heard of Publishers Clearing House. Although the company has declared bankruptcy, there are some active sweepstakes. Check its website here to see which ones you can enter.
4. Poppi Back to School Sweepstakes
Poppi is giving away a grand prize of $25,000 cash with its Back to School Sweepstakes. Another 25 winners will get a $1,000 gift card.
You can enter once a day and it’s open to residents 18 and older of the 48 contiguous United States and DC (excludes Alaska, Hawaii). The contest is open until October 3, 2026.
5. Various Sweepstakes from People.com
People keeps a running list of sweepstakes run by it and its family and partner sites. Right now, you can enter to win $25,000 for a new wardrobe, a trip to Las Vegas and much more.
Writer Elizabeth Djinis is a contributor to The Penny Hoarder, often writing about selling goods online through social platforms. Her work has appeared in Teen Vogue, Smithsonian Magazine and the Tampa Bay Times. Catherine Hiles contributed to this story.











