The basics
A card break is a pooled raffle for a single high-value Pokémon item — a PSA or CGC graded slab, or a sealed product like a Booster Box or ETB. Instead of one collector paying full price alone, five collectors each pay one-fifth. A single random draw then picks who takes the item home.
Step-by-step
A lister submits an item
Anyone with a graded slab or sealed product can list a break. They upload a real photo of the item, set a spot price, and submit for admin review. All listings are verified before going live.
Five collectors claim spots
Once approved, the break is live. Collectors browse the listings, pick their favourite, and claim one of the five spots by paying via PayPal. No more than one spot per person.
The draw runs instantly
The moment the fifth spot is filled, two draws run automatically using a cryptographically secure random algorithm. No human involvement. Often live-streamed on Discord so everyone can watch in real time.
Winner gets the card — losers get refunded
One person wins the item and gets their spot fee refunded too. One person's payment funds the break (paid to the lister). The remaining three get automatic PayPal refunds within minutes.
Your odds at a glance
Every participant has the same probability. The table below shows every possible outcome for a single spot:
| Outcome | Probability | What happens |
|---|---|---|
| 🏆 Win the item | 1 in 5 (20%) | You receive the graded card or product and your spot fee is refunded. |
| 💸 Fund the break | 1 in 5 (20%) | Your spot fee is kept by the lister. You pay the asking price. |
| ✅ Refunded | 3 in 5 (60%) | You pay nothing. Automatic PayPal refund within minutes. |
Bottom line: 4 out of 5 people walk away paying nothing. 1 in 5 wins an item worth far more than their spot fee.
What items are accepted
CatchaBreaks supports graded slabs from all major grading companies and common sealed products:
All listings must include a real photo of the actual item and are reviewed by an admin before going live.
Frequently asked questions
When do refunds arrive?
Refunds are fully automated and process the moment the draw closes — usually within 2–5 minutes via PayPal. You don't need to request them or contact anyone.
How do I know the draw is fair?
The draw uses a cryptographically random algorithm (the same tech behind SSL encryption). Many draws are live-streamed on Discord for full transparency. No human ever touches the selection.
How do I list my card or product?
Create an account → click List a Break → choose item type → upload proof photo → set your price (min $20) → submit. Admin reviews within 24 hours and notifies you when it goes live.
Is there a platform fee?
CatchaBreaks charges a 10% platform fee on each break, deducted from the spot fee that funds the break. As a collector entering, you only ever pay the listed spot price — there are no hidden fees.
What if I win — how do I get my card?
The lister ships the item directly to you. You'll receive their contact info as soon as the draw closes. Shipping is arranged between you and the lister.
Can I enter my own break?
No. To keep the draw completely fair, the person who listed the break cannot claim a spot in it.
Ready to try your luck?
Browse active breaks and claim your spot. Most draws close within 48 hours.
Browse open breaks →Have a card to sell?
List your PSA, CGC, or BGS graded card (or sealed product) as a break. Get paid when 5 collectors fill your spots — fast, secure, no upfront fees.
List a break →