If you're new to the dazzling, cash-rich world of sweepstakes, you may find the process of entering the sweepstakes a mite overwhelming. First of all, there are the bad apples - or the scams - to identify. Once you have spotted legitimate sweepstakes, you have to deal with a lot of legalese on the website, so you do not waste your time filling out entries that are invalid. Might seem a little too much. Not to worry. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you enter winning sweepstakes.

Identify legitimate sweepstakes.

That's the first step in the process. While most websites are legitimate, there are a few rotten apples in the bunch. To identify these, make it a point to read the website's privacy policy. Find out what the website will be doing with your personal information through their privacy policy. Never enter a sweepstake that asks for an entry fee. These are frauds. Never ever enter a sweepstake that asks for credit card information, your bank account number or your social security number. Next, see whether the sweepstakes have clear rules. Make it a point to read the rules. Avoid the ones that don't have any rules. Last point: rely on your instincts. If your gut feeling points north, leave the website alone, no matter how good the winnings are.

Get a separate email address for sweepstakes:

As you enter many sweepstakes, you will start receiving tons of emails; some marketing emails from sponsors, others simply spam. The best way to manage this sudden inflow of web mails is to get an email address for sweepstakes that is separate from your primary email address. You can simply get a free email account from Yahoo or MSN.

Decide what information you will be providing:

Sponsors of sweepstakes are generally very strict about the accuracy of the information you provide. The slightest signs of discrepancy and you can get disqualified. Many times, discrepancies arise from ignorance or sheer carelessness. So, decide beforehand what address, telephone number and email address to give away. Prize winners are usually notified by telephone and calls may be made at any time of the day. So, carry a cell phone and provide that number in your entries.

Filling out long registration forms is what every sweeper dreads. It takes too much time and leaves room for human errors. A small spelling mistake can prove costly. That is why you should download the free form filling applications provided by sweepstakes websites. That way, one click is all you need to fill in the form. Remember, it's not just ease; you are also saving time and expanding your chances of winning the big one.

It is important to enter sweepstakes with care so that every entry you send out is a winning one. Just a little care and caution at the time of entering contests will triple your chances of winning the prizes you covet.