Sweepstakes, Contests or instant winner games

Generally speaking, as opposed to a random draw sweepstakes where an alternate, non-purchase method of entry is required, a skill contest may require some form of consideration (opening a checking account, for example). However, there are a handful of states that do not allow consideration even in the context of a skill contest. Therefore, we would have to know which states the promotion will be conducted in before any definitive advice can be given. It's also important to note that in order to truly be considered a skill contest, the rules must clearly spell out the judging criteria, and each entry must be judged on that criteria by a qualified individual. So be sure to use measurable , judgeable criteria and communicate it clearly in the rules. Also be sure the judging is done in a professinal manner.
Contests can be tricky, so we would suggest you contact a promotion agency that has in-house counsel, such as ours, to help walk you through the issues.