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yesterday

PCH Winners Lose ‘Forever’ Checks as New Owner Rejects Pre–July 15 Payouts

The asset sale split the brand from legacy debts, leaving past prize obligations in the bankruptcy estate.

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Jo-Ann Snyder and her husband Michael open the door for Publishers Clearing House at her home in Wilkes-Barre Township in 2018. Winners who had been promised lifetime prizes are losing those payments due to Publishers Clearing House's bankruptcy.
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Overview

  • ARB Interactive bought certain PCH assets for $7.1 million and says it will not pay prizes awarded before July 15, 2025, while assuming post‑petition and post–July 15 prize obligations.
  • The buyer plans a separate paying structure to protect future winners under the PCH Digital relaunch, with two unawarded SuperPrizes still set to be paid, including a $1 million award on September 30.
  • Bankruptcy filings show $50 million to $100 million in liabilities against $1 million to $10 million in assets and about $26 million in promised prizes, with 10 winners among the largest unsecured creditors.
  • Several long‑time recipients report halted payments and financial strain, including John Wyllie, who had been promised $5,000 a week for life and says he is selling belongings to cover bills.
  • The Chapter 11 case remains active in federal court with a window for claims, and attorneys say unsecured creditors face long odds of recovery given the limited estate.