Report to Publishers Clearing House
Last updated September 18, 2026
The short answer
File a PCH scam incident report, which goes to the FTC and USPS
Publishers Clearing House is impersonated more than it is used, and it publishes two rules that settle almost every case. PCH never calls to say you have won, and it never asks for money to enter or to claim. Real winners get an unannounced visit with cameras.
What they handle
- Calls and letters claiming you have won a PCH prize
- Requests for a fee, taxes or a payment to release winnings
- Fake PCH social media accounts and messages
- Emails using the PCH name to collect personal details
How to file a report
- 1
File the scam incident report
PCH takes reports through its online Scam Incident Report form. It says it shares what you submit with the Federal Trade Commission, the US Postal Service, and police and law enforcement around the country.
- 2
Send no money
No purchase or fee is ever required to enter or win. Anyone asking you to pay a fee, prepay taxes or wire money is running the scam.
- 3
Report it to the FTC too
PCH directs consumers to file with the FTC, which is the agency that tracks and acts on sweepstakes fraud.
What you'll need
- The phone number, address or account that contacted you
- Any letter or cheque you were sent
- The amount and method, if you already paid
What to expect
The report feeds law enforcement rather than producing a reply. If you sent money, that is recovered through your bank, and a cheque you were sent is almost certainly going to bounce.
Frequently asked questions
PCH called to say I won. Is that how it works?
No. PCH says it never contacts major prize winners in advance. Its winners find out when the Prize Patrol turns up at the door unannounced.
Company guide
Publishers Clearing House scams
Knowing which scam you were hit by makes the report better. This is how scams impersonating Publishers Clearing House actually work, what the company will never ask you for, and the warning signs to recognise next time.
Read the guide →