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“So how did you do on your Super Bowl pick?” Gambling Income and Losses.... Somebody’s gotta win, somebody’s gotta lose!

The following rules apply to casual gamblers who aren't in the trade or business of gambling. Gambling winnings are fully taxable and you must report the income on your tax return. Gambling income includes but isn't limited to winnings from lotteries, raffles, horse races, and casinos. It includes cash winnings and the fair market value of prizes, such as cars and trips.

Gambling Winnings

A payer is required to issue you a Form W-2G.pdf, Certain Gambling Winnings, if you receive certain gambling winnings or have any gambling winnings subject to federal income tax withholding. You must report all gambling winnings on your Form 1040.pdf as "Other Income" (line 21), including winnings that aren't reported on a Form W-2G.pdf. When you have gambling winnings, you may be required to pay an estimated tax on that additional income. For information on withholding on gambling winnings, refer to Publication 505, Tax Withholding and Estimated Tax.

Gambling Losses

You may deduct gambling losses only if you itemize your deductions on Form 1040, Schedule A.pdf, and kept a record of your winnings and losses. The amount of losses you deduct can't be more than the amount of gambling income you reported on your return. Claim your gambling losses up to the amount of winnings, as "Other Miscellaneous Deductions" (line 28) that is not subject to the 2% limit.

How do you claim your winnings or losses click here:

https://www.irs.gov/help/ita/how-do-i-claim-my-gambling-winnings-andor-losses

Also click here for more information:

https://www.irs.gov/taxtopics/tc419

If you or someone you know has a Gambling Addiction problem, check out this link:

https://www.helpguide.org/articles/addictions/gambling-addiction-and-problem-gambling.htm

steve@stevesimsea.com