Can I Get in Trouble for Running a Social Media Sweepstakes or Contest?

Running a sweepstakes or contest on social media can be a great way to promote your book or your brand: it’s fun when people can actively participate in your marketing, and everybody likes a chance to win free stuff! But before you begin, it’s important to be aware that sweepstakes and contests entail a unique and somewhat stringent set of legal requirements and restrictions. Anyone who plans to run either type of promotion should make sure that it complies with federal and state regulations, as well as the terms and conditions of the social media platforms on which it will appear.