Enter Now: Contest Winnings Could Set You Up for Life

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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 Summer Flavors 5K Giveaway

Food Network is giving away $5,000 cash to help people throw their ideal summer bash with its Summer Flavors $5K Giveaway.

You can enter twice daily — once on the Food Network website and once on the TLC website. The contest goes until July 14, 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
Bingo Cash Up to $83 per win Compete against other players
Kashkick $1,000/month Try out apps

2. HGTV Home Sweet Home $5K Giveaway

HGTV is giving away $5,000 cash to help homeowners reimagine their space through its Home Sweet Home $5K Giveaway.

You can enter twice daily — once on the HGTV website and once on the TLC website. The contest goes until Aug. 12, 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. AARP $10,000 Invest in Your Nest Sweepstakes

AARP is giving away $10,000 for those who want to relocate or renovate their homes.

There’s no purchase or AARP membership necessary and you can find the rules here. The contest goes until Aug. 21, 2026 and is open to residents of the 50 United States and Washington, D.C who are 18 and older.

5. Various Sweepstakes from People.com

People keeps a running list of sweepstakes run by it and its family and partner sites like All Recipes and Better Homes & Gardens. Right now, you can enter to win $10k for groceries, $25k to pay your bills 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.