Anyone know about clearance receipts for sweepstakes winnings?

I supposedly won the PCH Publishers Clearing House sweepstakes for over 800k USD. But I’m being told I need to get a clearance receipt before I can receive my winnings. I’ve also been told the winnings were confiscated and are in storage. I’m being asked to send tax funds to someone. Is any of this legit? I’m 70 and have 25 dependents. Not sure what to do…

This sounds like a scam. PCH never asks for money to release winnings. They don’t even contact winners by email or phone. They do it in person!

Ari said:
This sounds like a scam. PCH never asks for money to release winnings. They don’t even contact winners by email or phone. They do it in person!

Yeah, I’ve heard about these scams. They try to get you to send money for a ‘clearance receipt.’ But none of it’s real.

@Han
What exactly is a clearance receipt? I’m confused about what that even is for… :thinking:

Lane said:
@Han
What exactly is a clearance receipt? I’m confused about what that even is for… :thinking:

A ‘clearance receipt’ doesn’t exist. They’re just trying to trick you into paying. It’s one of their tactics to look legit.

Just checked the PCH website. They warn about scams like this. Definitely ignore anyone asking for money before handing over winnings. Don’t send anything!

Emerson said:
Just checked the PCH website. They warn about scams like this. Definitely ignore anyone asking for money before handing over winnings. Don’t send anything!

Ugh, I almost fell for something similar a while ago. They’ll just take your money and run. So glad I did some research.

There’s no PCH garage, no vehicle storage. They don’t operate like that. Everything you’re hearing is made up.

Rin said:
There’s no PCH garage, no vehicle storage. They don’t operate like that. Everything you’re hearing is made up.

I was told the same thing once. They’ll tell you anything to get money. Just ignore them!

Don’t fall for it! Scammers are getting better at this stuff. PCH would never ask for money upfront. If it was real, you’d know.

Montana said:
Don’t fall for it! Scammers are getting better at this stuff. PCH would never ask for money upfront. If it was real, you’d know.

Yeah, PCH visits winners in person! It’s all over their official site. Good thing you’re being cautious.

I had a similar situation a few months ago. It was all fake! Glad I didn’t send anything. Stay strong and don’t trust those scammers.

Cory said:
I had a similar situation a few months ago. It was all fake! Glad I didn’t send anything. Stay strong and don’t trust those scammers.

What happens if you send money to them? Do you ever get anything back?

@Han
Nope, once they have your money, it’s gone. Don’t send them anything! It’s a huge red flag.