1. ALL SALES ARE FINAL

All sales and bids are final, binding, and non-refundable. No exchanges, cancellations, or cash redemptions will be permitted under any circumstances. By placing a bid or purchasing an item, you agree to be bound by these terms.

2. "AS IS" CONDITION & WARRANTY DISCLAIMER

All auction items, certificates, and packages are sold "AS IS" and "WHERE IS." The Wisconsin Hotel & Lodging Association (WHLA) makes no express or implied warranties or representations of any kind regarding the merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, origin, value, or condition of any property, service, or package. All descriptions, estimated fair market values (FMV), and photos are provided for informational purposes only.

3. GIFT CERTIFICATES, TRAVEL & EXPERIENCES

Certificates, travel packages, and gift cards must be redeemed according to the specific terms, expiration dates, and restrictions set forth by the donor or issuing business.
Unless explicitly noted, packages do not include taxes, gratuities, processing/resort fees, alcohol, or incidental costs.
Stays, spa services, rounds of golf, and dining certificates are subject to availability, advance booking requirements, and holiday or seasonal blackout dates. 
Expiration dates cannot be extended, and lost, stolen, or misplaced certificates cannot be replaced.
The Wisconsin Hotel & Lodging Association (WHLA) is not liable if a donor business closes, changes ownership, or is unable to fulfill a donated voucher or experience after the auction closes.

4. PAYMENT & CREDIT CARD CHARGES

A valid credit card is required to register and place bids on the GiveSmart platform.
At the conclusion of the auction, all winning bidders will be notified. Winning bids will automatically be processed using the credit card registered on the bidder’s GiveSmart account unless prior cash/check payment arrangements have been authorized.
Winning bidders agree not to dispute or initiate a chargeback with their credit card company or bank for any auction purchases made through GiveSmart.

5. TAX DEDUCTIBILITY

The amount eligible for a tax deduction is limited to the excess of the winning bid over the estimated Fair Market Value (FMV) of the item purchased. Winning bidders will receive an itemized receipt detailing the purchase price and stated FMV. Please consult your financial or tax advisor regarding the deductibility of your purchase.

6. ITEM PICKUP & SHIPPING

Winning bidders are solely responsible for claiming and picking up physical items at the designated event pickup times.
If shipping is requested, items will be shipped to the winner no later than November 6, 2026.
The Wisconsin Hotel & Lodging Association (WHLA) is not responsible for physical items once they have been claimed or handed over to a carrier. Items not claimed within 14 of the auction closing will be considered forfeited and returned to the Wisconsin Hotel & Lodging Association (WHLA) as a donation without refund.

7. LIMITATION OF LIABILITY & HOLD HARMLESS

Each bidder assumes all risks and hazards related to the auction and items obtained. Bidders agree to hold harmless, defend, and indemnify the Wisconsin Hotel & Lodging Association (WHLA), GiveSmart, event organizers, board members, staff, volunteers, sponsors, and donors from any claims, damages, liabilities, injuries, or losses arising from or related to the auction, the event, or the use/enjoyment of any items or experiences purchased.

8. AUCTION MANAGEMENT & DISPUTE RESOLUTION

The Wisconsin Hotel & Lodging Association (WHLA) reserves the right to reject any bid, withdraw any item from the auction prior to bidding completion, or restart bidding on an item in the event of a platform dispute, software failure, or bid entry error. The decision of the auction organizers regarding any auction dispute or bidding resolution shall be final and binding.