With more and more companies using sweepstakes as a promotional tool, there is a rise in what is coming to be known as "professional sweepstakers". Yes, they actually make a good living from what many of us only know as a hobby! According to the editor of a popular sweepstaking newsletter, she has made from $30,000 to $50,000 a year from sweepstaking alone, for the last 10 years!

So what's the secret? What do they know that we don't? Most have a standard set of "rules" that are used for increasing the odds of winning. These are easy to follow, and will work for anyone who is willing.

Rule number 1: Follow the rules.

This is stated as being the first and foremost rule to stand by if you want to win. If the contest guidelines state that your entry must be on a 3x5 card, then absolutely send your entry on a 3x5 card.

Rule number 2: Budget.

Yes, this can be difficult sometimes. We get caught up in the adrenaline rush and want to enter them all. However, this is another steadfast rule followed by professional sweepstakers. Sweepstaking is a fun way to win something extra, and a good way to earn a living, so should never be a burden to one's household budget. This would defeat the purpose.

Rule number 3: Be creative.

If there are no steadfast rules stated as to the form of entry, be creative with your entry form. Using the sponsor's box or advertisement to make your own entry form, as well as using bright colored envelopes or paper, can be eye catching. For a store drop-box entry, crumple up your entry form to make it easier to grab onto.

Rule number 4: Frequently enter short-running or restricted-entry sweeps.

Enter as many sweeps as you can with close deadlines. These have better odds as there are fewer entrants. Restricted-entry contests also fall under this category, such as those that limit entrants to a specific age group.

Rule number 5: Only enter for prizes you really want.

This is a time and money-saving rule that will serve you well. Some prizes, though not all, require that taxes be paid on them, so be sure you can afford to win the prize, and that you actually do want it! This rule will also save money on postage, and will allow you to devote more time to entering for the prizes you are truly interested in.

All-in-all, be sure to have fun with your sweepstaking hobby, and if you wish to become a professional (or even if you don't), follow these rules to increase your odds of success!