Unlike a sweepstakes, a lottery is a promotional device by which items of value (prizes) are awarded to members of the public by chance—but some form of payment is required to participate. Lotteries are illegal, except when conducted by states and certain exempt charitable organizations. If you believe you have received a solicitation characterized as a sweepstakes that is in fact an illegal lottery, you should contact your local Post Office or state Attorney General’s consumer protection office.
In Kansas, lotteries are generally considered illegal gambling unless they are conducted by the state or certain exempt charitable organizations. The Kansas Lottery is authorized by the state to operate games of chance for the purpose of generating revenue for state initiatives. However, private lotteries are prohibited. Charitable organizations may be allowed to conduct raffles or bingo games under specific circumstances and with proper licensing. If an individual in Kansas encounters what appears to be an illegal lottery disguised as a sweepstakes, where participation requires payment, they are encouraged to report it to the Kansas Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division or the local Post Office. The Consumer Protection Division is responsible for enforcing laws related to consumer fraud, including illegal lotteries.