Can I offer contests that involve charity donations in Vermont? What are the requirements?

Based on the documents provided, offering contests that involve charity donations in Vermont is allowed, but there are certain requirements that must be met.

Requirements for Contests Involving Charity Donations in Vermont

According to VTCR 06-031-003 § 109.01, it is an unfair and deceptive trade act and practice in commerce for any person to solicit any other person to engage in any kind of a game of skill, contest, sweepstakes, giveaway or other promotion which:

• is deceptive or misleading as to chances of winning, the number of winners, the value of the prizes, or the availability of the prize;
• requires any kind of entry fee, service charge, purchase or similar consideration in order to enter or to continue to remain eligible; or,
• uses publications, literature, written or verbal promotion that is false, deceptive or misleading.

Therefore, any contest involving charity donations in Vermont must not be deceptive or misleading, must not require any kind of entry fee, service charge, purchase or similar consideration in order to enter or to continue to remain eligible, and must not use publications, literature, written or verbal promotion that is false, deceptive or misleading.

Additionally, according to 9 VTST 2472, prior to soliciting in Vermont, a paid fundraiser must enter into a written contract with the charitable organization on whose behalf solicitations are to be made. The contract must contain certain provisions, including a minimum percentage of the gross receipts of the fundraising campaign to be paid to the charitable organization, an itemized description of all expenses, commissions, and other amounts that are to be deducted from the receipts of the fundraising campaign, and an authorized signature of the charitable organization indicating approval of the terms of the contract.

Conclusion

In conclusion, offering contests that involve charity donations in Vermont is allowed as long as the contest meets the requirements outlined in VTCR 06-031-003 § 109.01 and any paid fundraiser enters into a written contract with the charitable organization on whose behalf solicitations are to be made, as outlined in 9 VTST 2472.

Jurisdiction

Vermont

• Gaming