Publishers Clearing House (PCH) is a real sweepstakes company that has awarded millions of dollars in prizes since 1967. It is also one of the most impersonated brands in prize and lottery scams. Here is how to tell real PCH communications from fake ones.
What Is Publishers Clearing House?
Publishers Clearing House (pch.com) is a real, legitimate US sweepstakes and marketing company that awards genuine cash prizes — including large lump-sum prizes delivered in person by the PCH Prize Patrol. It earns revenue through its sweepstakes entries being tied to magazine subscriptions and product purchases, though purchasing is not required to enter or win.
The PCH Impersonation Scam
PCH’s brand recognition makes it a frequent target for scammers who send fraudulent “you’ve won” notifications via:
- Phone calls claiming you have won a PCH prize and must pay taxes or fees to claim it
- Emails with fake prize notification letters and links to “claim” your winnings
- Physical letters (sometimes using PCH’s design) requiring payment before prize delivery
- Text messages with prize claim links
The Golden Rule of PCH Prizes
The real PCH never requires you to pay any fee, tax, or charge to claim a prize. This is the single most important rule. Any “PCH” notification that asks for payment before releasing a prize is a scam, no matter how official it looks.
Real PCH prize notifications: the PCH Prize Patrol delivers major prizes in person with cameras. Smaller prizes are sent by check. No advance payment is ever required.
How to Verify a Real PCH Communication
- Genuine PCH emails come from @pch.com domains
- Check your PCH account status at pch.com — real prize notifications will be reflected there
- Call PCH directly at 1-800-459-4724 to verify any prize notification before responding
- Real PCH Prize Patrol appearances are typically previewed on their social media and website
What to Do If You Paid a Fake PCH Scam
- Contact your bank or card issuer immediately to initiate a chargeback
- Report to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov
- Report to the FBI IC3 at ic3.gov if significant amounts are involved
Our Verdict
PCH is a real company — but its brand is heavily impersonated by prize scammers. The absolute rule: no legitimate prize company requires upfront payment to claim your winnings. Any fee request is a scam.
