Do I have to pay tax on my gambling winnings?

If you itemize your tax deductions on Form 1040, Schedule A, you may deduct any gambling losses up to the amount of your gambling winnings on your tax return. If you have no gambling winnings for the tax year then you cannot deduct your gambling losses on your tax return. The tax deduction on your tax return is not subject to the 2% AGI floor.

Gambling winnings from lotteries and raffles are taxable gambling winnings on your tax return. In addition to cash gambling winnings, you must include on your tax return bonds, cars, houses, and other non-cash gambling winnings at their fair market value.

If you win a state lottery prize payable in installments, you must include on your tax return both the annual payments and any amount designated as “interest” on the unpaid gambling winning installments.

Any federal income tax withheld from your gambling winnings should be included on your tax return. Be sure to attach your Form W2-G to your tax return.