12 Common Entry Mistakes That Get You Disqualified (and How to Avoid Them)
12 Common Entry Mistakes That Get You Disqualified (and How to Avoid Them)
At ZipSweep, a winning code is randomly generated every day using a U.S. ZIP code and a unique user ID. If that exact person claims by 9PM (see the app for your local cutoff), the prize is theirs. If not, we may roll the prize over to the entire ZIP—first come, first served. It’s free, funded by ads, and we only use your email for daily reminders and the occasional update. We never share your details unless you say it’s OK. We’re not a lottery and this isn’t gambling—it’s a free sweepstakes.
Here are the most common mistakes that get entries disqualified (anywhere, and specifically on ZipSweep)—plus how to avoid them.
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Using the wrong or outdated ZIP code
Eligibility and rollovers are tied to ZIP codes. If your profile ZIP is wrong, your entry may be invalid for that day’s code or rollover.
How to avoid: Keep your ZIP current in your profile before the daily cutoff. Use your real, current U.S. ZIP code.
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Creating multiple accounts
Most sweepstakes, including ZipSweep, allow one account per person. Duplicate accounts, shared identities, or throwaway signups are grounds for disqualification.
How to avoid: Stick to a single account tied to your real identity and one primary email.
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Typos or disposable emails
If we can’t reach you or verify you via email, we may be unable to award a prize or confirm a claim.
How to avoid: Use your primary inbox, double‑check spelling, and whitelist ZipSweep emails. Check Promotions/Spam if you don’t see reminders.
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Skipping verification steps
Basic checks (like confirming email, age, or eligibility) protect fairness. Incomplete verification can void a claim.
How to avoid: Complete any prompts right away and respond promptly if support requests confirmation.
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Missing the 9PM claim window
If the exact winner doesn’t claim by 9PM, they lose the guaranteed win—and we may roll the prize over to the ZIP.
How to avoid: Check the app daily, watch the countdown clock, and enable notifications so you never miss the deadline.
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Using VPNs, proxies, or GPS spoofers
Location-masking tools trigger fraud checks and can invalidate entries or claims.
How to avoid: Disable VPN/proxy and location spoofing when you play or claim. Use your normal connection.
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Letting someone else claim from your account
Claims must come from the eligible account holder. Shared logins or third‑party claims can’t be honored.
How to avoid: Keep your credentials private and claim only for yourself.
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Providing false info (name, age, eligibility)
Incorrect or misleading details—like age under the minimum or a non‑U.S. residence—can disqualify you.
How to avoid: Enter your real info, ensure you meet age and residency requirements, and update your profile if something changes.
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Not reading the Official Rules
Many issues (eligibility, claim process, prohibited behavior) are explained in the rules. Ignoring them leads to avoidable disqualifications.
How to avoid: Scan the rules once, then revisit if something changes or if you have questions about claims or rollovers.
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Trying to play from outside eligible areas
ZipSweep is built around U.S. ZIP codes. Playing from outside the U.S. or a restricted location may invalidate participation.
How to avoid: Play only while in eligible U.S. locations and use an accurate ZIP code.
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Automating entries or claims (bots, scripts, macros)
Automation gives an unfair advantage and triggers anti‑fraud systems.
How to avoid: Interact manually. Don’t run scripts, browser automation, or device farms.
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Ignoring notifications during winner checks
If we need quick confirmation and you don’t respond, you could miss out—especially during high‑demand rollovers.
How to avoid: Keep push/email on, and respond quickly to support if we reach out about a claim.
ZipSweep pro tips
- Log in daily before 9PM and watch the countdown timer in the app.
- Enable email reminders and push notifications so you never miss a claim window.
- Keep your profile accurate—especially your U.S. ZIP code and email.
- Use one account, one device profile, and no VPN/proxy.
- During rollovers, move fast—prizes become first come, first served in the eligible ZIP at our discretion.
Our commitment to fairness and privacy
ZipSweep is free and funded by advertising. We only use your email for daily reminders and occasional updates, and we never share your details unless you say it’s OK. We’re not a lottery and this is not gambling—we’re a community‑driven sweepstakes built to be fast, fair, and frictionless.
This article is general guidance. Always review the Official Rules in the app for the most current eligibility and claim requirements.