When creating a contest on Splash Sports, you'll be asked to choose how entry fees and payouts are handled. Here's what each option means and how to decide which is right for your pool.
Real-Money Contests (Splash Handles Payments)
Select "Splash handles payments" during contest creation. In this mode:
Splash collects entry fees directly from participants via their linked payment method
Splash distributes prize payouts automatically to winners' Splash wallets
You earn 5% of the rake as commissioner rewards, paid to your Splash wallet the Monday after the contest locks
Participants must have a verified Splash account to enter
You must be in an eligible state and have a verified account to run the contest
No 1099-K from Venmo or PayPal — Splash handles all reporting
Best for: Commissioners who want Splash to handle all the money so there's no manual collection or payout hassle.
Self-Managed Contests (Entertainment-Only)
Select "I'll collect entries and handle payments on my own" during contest creation. In this mode:
You collect entry fees and distribute prizes yourself (via Venmo, cash, etc.)
Splash provides the platform for picks, standings, and contest management — but handles no money
Available in all 50 US states and Canada — no location restrictions
No account verification required for participants to enter
Commissioner rewards do not apply
Includes formats not available as real-money contests: NFL Squares, NFL Margin, NFL 33, CFL/NFL combo, and more
Best for: Commissioners who run casual pools among friends or co-workers where they prefer to handle payments themselves, or who are in a state where real-money contests aren't available.
Quick Comparison
Real-Money: Splash collects fees ✅ | Splash pays winners ✅ | Commissioner earns 5% ✅ | Verification required ✅ | All states ❌
Self-Managed: You collect fees ✅ | You pay winners ✅ | Commissioner earns 5% ❌ | Verification required ❌ | All states ✅
Can I Switch Between Modes?
No — the payment mode is set at contest creation and cannot be changed afterwards. If you selected the wrong mode, you'll need to cancel the contest and create a new one with the correct setting. See What Can I Edit in My Contest?
Questions? Email support@splashsports.com.