Sweepstakes winnings 1099-misc

[troopertim]

I received a 1099-misc for a sweepstakes I won. in the amount of $4776.00 for the estimated value of the trip.  The trip had to be used within four months after winning or it would be forfeited, I had some medical problems and was unable to use the trip. I did not receive anything from the prize company other than a letter stating I won. I did not get tickets or anything from them . What should I do about this 1099 ?

[SharonF]

If you were notified of your winnings, you are responsible for paying tax on the trip even if you never used it.

[troopertim]

How could this be, I did not gain anything , the company did not have to pay for anything, if they claimed it on their taxes they are in violation.

[SharonF]

You can try to contact the company offering the sweepstakes, but there may have been costs incurred even if you did not claim your prize. In order for them to issue the 1099, you would have been required to provide your social security number.