From Yahoo Finance: 2025-05-01 17:42:00

The Federal Trade Commission announced Publishers Clearing House will pay $18.5 million to customers for misleading claims. The company targeted older and lower-income customers, deceiving them into thinking they needed to purchase products to enter sweepstakes. Checks will be sent to over 281,000 affected consumers within 90 days.

In a statement, Publishers Clearing House VP Chris Irving confirmed the settlement with the FTC from 2023. Despite disagreements, the company looks forward to providing fun entertainment and games to consumers. Publishers Clearing House recently filed for bankruptcy protection in New York to streamline operations and explore asset sales or partnerships.

Despite recent financial challenges, Publishers Clearing House CEO Andy Goldberg reassured that the sweepstakes will continue to be a core part of their business. The company plans to offer free-to-play entertainment and prizes during and after the bankruptcy process. Sharon Swank from Chillicothe recently won $10,000 from Publishers Clearing House.

Read more: Refund checks will be sent to people ‘harmed’ by Publishers Clearing House: FTC