Winner Frequently Asked Questions
We understand that winners have questions! We're here to help answer them
Our Most Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Realtime Media?
Realtime Media (“RTM”) is a digital promotions company with over 30 years of experience powering sweepstakes, contests and games!
RTM has earned recognition as a trusted partner for renowned brands, agencies and retailers worldwide. We’re committed to upholding legal compliance standards, ensuring the success and integrity of every promotion we administer.
Is this legitimate?
All promotions managed by Realtime Media are the real deal, fully compliant with local, state, federal, and international laws and regulations in eligible regions.
Keep an eye out for emails from addresses ending in “@rtm.com” or “@promosupport.com” – those are our verified email domains. If you ever receive an email claiming to be from us but from a different domain, let us know! You can always reach out to us at outreach@rtm.com
I got a package from your company...
Congratulations! If you’ve received a package from Realtime Media, it means you’re a winner selected as part of a promotion that we helped to fulfill.
At RTM, we not only manage administration and compliance for promotions, but we also handle the procurement and distribution of prizes for sweepstakes, contests, instant win games, and giveaways. Enjoy your prize!
Why do I need to complete a DocuSign?
Completing a DocuSign is part of the winner confirmation process for some prizes. If you’ve won a prize valued at over $600, you’ll need to fill out a winner declaration packet along with an IRS W9 form to comply with IRS regulations. This information is crucial for us to confirm your status as a winner and issue you a 1099-MISC Tax Form at the end of the year, which you’ll need for tax filing purposes.
Using DocuSign ensures secure and efficient distribution and collection of this information, providing a reliable and secure way to manage eSignatures.
Other Frequently Asked Questions
General Promotions Questions
Who is the Sponsor?
To find out who the sponsor is, please refer to the Official Rules of the promotion about which you're inquiring.
I don't remember entering…
If you don't recall entering a promotion and you received a notification about winning or prize, we advise reaching out to the Promotion Administrator for further details regarding your participation. If what you received came from Realtime Media, you can reach out to us at outreach@rtm.com
Who are the winners?
To find out who the winners are, we suggest referring to the Official Rules of the promotion. These rules provide guidance on how to request a winner list for the specific promotion in question.
Why am I a winner “pending verification”?
Being labeled a winner “pending verification” is a standard step in our winner confirmation process. It means that while you’ve been selected as a potential winner, you still need to meet the eligibility criteria outlined in the Official Rules and complete all prize redemption and confirmation steps prior to being officially confirmed as the winner. These steps may include the following:
- Complete a Prize Redemption Form:
For some promotions you may be asked to complete a prize redemption form. If so, you'll receive a claim link as a part of the notification mesage. Click on the link and follow the instructions to provide the necessary information for verification. - Winner Eligibility Pack and Release Form:
For prizes exceeding $600, you may receive a DocuSign packet and/or a prize redemption form link via email. Please complete the claim form first, then proceed to fill out all of the required fields in the DocuSign packet, which will be sent following the completion of your claim form. - Review and Confirmation:
Once you've completed both the Claim Form and the DocuSign packet (if applicable), our team will review the information provided. If everything checks out, we'll confirm your status as a winner!
Once our team verifies your eligibility and completes and required paperwork, you’ll be officially recognized as a “winner” and receive your prize.
Do I have to pay to claim?
No, payment is never required as a condition to claim your prize. You may be asked to redeem your prize via the completion of necessary paperwork, such as a Prize Redemption Form, Eligibility and Release of Liability Form and/or a W9 Form for tax purposes, particularly for prizes exceeding $600 in value. Once all required paperwork is reviewed and verified, you will be officially recognized as a “winner” and your prize will be fulfilled promptly and in accordance with the official rules.
Can I Enter The Promotion Multiple Times?
Whether or not you can enter a promotion multiple times varies according to the Official Rules of each promotion. We recommend checking the Official Rules of the promotion you’re entering to confirm whether multiple entries are permitted.
Does Anybody Monitor the Support Emails?
Yes, our team monitors the email support inboxes for active promotions! While we will do our best to get back to you within 2-3 business days, during peak periods we may experience high volumes of support requests, which could affect response times. Rest assured, we're doing our best to route your request efficiently and assist you as promptly as possible
I Encountered An Error While Entering A Promotion... What Do I Do?
If you encounter an error message while attempting to enter a promotion, consider the following troubleshooting steps:
- Clear your web browser's cache.
- If using a phone or tablet, force quit your browser and retry.
- Power off and restart your device.
- Attempt to enter the promotion from a different device - computers often provide better compatibility.
If the error persists, don't hesitate to contact us for assistance. Please provide a screenshot of the error message along with a detailed explanation of when it occurs. The more information you provide about the message and your device, the better we can assist you.
DocuSign & Winner Packet Questions
Why do I need to sign all these forms?
Completion of the Eligibility and Release of Liability Form is necessary to confirm the accuracy of your information and that your eligibility to win the prize. This form also contains liability language and confirms your agreement to abide by and have complied with the Official Rules of the promotion
Additionally, the W9 Form is required by the IRS for tax reporting purposes when the prize value is $600 or more. This document helps in reporting miscellaneous income to the IRS, and you may receive a 1099 Form for tax filing purposes.
Why do I need to provide my SSN?
For prizes valued at $600 or more, a completed W9 form is required by the IRS, aiding in the issuance of 1099 forms for tax purposes.
Your Social Security Number (SSN) is required by the IRS for the issuance of a 1099.
Is my information shared?
We understand your concern about sharing personal information. Rest assured, we adhere to strict security measures to safeguard your data. Our commitment includes utilizing secure data management tools and platforms to protect your information. You should also review the privacy policy of the Sponsor of the promotion and the Official Rules of the promotion to see how the Sponsor may use your information. Realtime Media serves as a data processor for digital promotions and only collects and securely stores data on an as-needed basis to carry out promotion-specific duties.
Is DocuSign secure?
Absolutely. DocuSign®, The Global Standard for eSignature®, sets the bar for eSignature transaction management. It's backed by the highest level of security certification, including ISO 27001 and SSAE 16, ensuring robust protection for your documents. With industry-leading data confidentiality measures like AES 256-bit encryption, your information is safe from tampering at every step of the process.
Did you receive my completed DocuSign Packet?
Once you finish your DocuSign Packet, you'll receive an email notification confirming its completion. We also receive the same notification when your packet is completed.
How much will I owe in taxes?
The tax amount varies based on your prize's value and your tax bracket. For a more accurate estimate, it's best to chat with an accounting expert. They'll help you navigate the tax waters smoothly!
When will I receive my 1099?
You'll typically receive your 1099 tax form in January following the year in which your prize is fulfilled. This aligns with the annual tax reporting cycle, ensuring you have what you need for tax purposes. Keep an eye on your mailbox or email towards the end of the year for updates. If you have questions, our support team is here to help!
Prizes and Rewards Questions
When Will I Get My Prize?
We know you're eager to receive your prize! For details on when it will arrive, simply refer to the fulfillment timing outlined in the Official Rules of the promotion you've won.
Do I Need To Post About My Prize?
Unless you received other instructions from the promotion party (Administrator or Sponsor), feel free to share your excitement about the prize on social media! Don't forget to tag the Sponsor for some extra recognition!
Can I Transfer My Prize To Someone Else?
Transferring a prize to someone else depends on the rules outlined in the Official Rules of the promotion. Please review the Official Rules of the promotion to determine if prize transfers are allowed. If the Official Rules state you’re able to transfer your prize, please contact our support team!
