US Raffle Laws by State: Official Charitable Gaming Resources
Last updated:
TL;DR
US raffle laws by state with direct links to official charitable gaming agencies. Alabama, Hawaii, and Utah prohibit raffles. According to CharityAuctions.com platform data, more than 50,000 organizations have used CharityAuctions since 2007. Find permits and regulations for all 50 states and DC. Organizations in prohibited states can run a charity auction as an alternative.
US Raffle Laws by State: Official Resources
Raffle laws in the United States vary by state. Some states allow charitable raffles with permits. Others prohibit them entirely. According to CharityAuctions.com platform data, more than 50,000 organizations have used CharityAuctions since 2007 to run fundraising events. This page links directly to each state's official charitable gaming authority so you can find permits, regulations, and application forms. For organizations in states that prohibit raffles, a charity auction is the most effective alternative.
This is informational only, not legal advice. Laws change. Consult your state's agency or a lawyer before running a raffle.
Ready to create your auction?
Start building today with no upfront cost, no credit card required, and everything you need to run a successful fundraiser.
For planning, compliance, pricing, and execution, see how to run a raffle fundraiser.
States that prohibit raffles
Three states prohibit charitable raffles:
| State | Status |
|---|---|
| Alabama | Raffles prohibited. Considered illegal lotteries. |
| Hawaii | Raffles prohibited except when participation is free with voluntary donations. |
| Utah | Raffles prohibited. Considered gambling. |
If your organization is in one of these states, do not run a raffle. Consider alternatives: silent auction software, donation campaigns, or sponsorships.
States with online raffle restrictions
Some states allow in-person raffles but restrict or prohibit online raffle ticket sales. Examples include Arkansas, California, and New Mexico. Check your state's official resource below for current rules.
Key legal themes
Before contacting your state agency, understand common requirements:
- Permits or licenses – Most states require nonprofits to obtain a permit before selling tickets. Fees often range from $15 to $500.
- Qualified organizations – Typically limited to 501(c)(3) nonprofits; some states require 1–5 years of operation.
- Ticket disclosures – Drawing date, time, location; prize descriptions; permit number; organization name and contact.
- Transparent drawings – Public or documented drawings; records of winners; retention for reporting.
- Post-event reporting – Financial reports (gross receipts, prizes, expenses) due 30–90 days after the raffle.
- Prize limits – Some states cap prize values or restrict cash prizes.
Source: National Council of Nonprofits
How to use this guide
- Find your state in the table below.
- Click the official link to reach your state's charitable gaming authority.
- Review permits, regulations, and applications on the state site.
- Apply early. Processing often takes weeks. Do not sell tickets until approved.
- Consult legal counsel if your situation is complex or you operate across state lines.
US Raffle Laws: Official State Resources
More resources
- How to run a raffle fundraiser – Planning, permits, pricing, formats, and execution
- 9 raffle games to help you raise more – 50/50, basket, wine pull, and more
- National Council of Nonprofits – State Fundraising Regulations
Legal disclaimer
Raffle laws change. State agencies reorganize. Links may become outdated. This guide is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always confirm with your state's official charitable gaming authority or a qualified attorney before conducting a raffle.
This guide is maintained by CharityAuctions. Bookmark this page and check state links periodically as laws evolve. Questions? Talk to our team.
Frequently asked questions
Which states prohibit raffles?
Alabama, Hawaii, and Utah prohibit charitable raffles. If your organization is in one of these states, you cannot legally run a raffle. See how to run a raffle fundraiser for alternatives.
Where do I find my state's raffle permit application?
Use the table in this article to find your state's official charitable gaming agency (usually the Attorney General, gaming commission, or Secretary of State). Each agency link goes to permits, regulations, and application forms.
Can I sell raffle tickets online in my state?
Online raffle ticket sales are restricted or prohibited in several states, including Arkansas, California, and New Mexico. Check your state's link in the table above for current online raffle rules.
Do I need a permit before selling raffle tickets?
Most states that allow raffles require a permit or license before you sell tickets. Apply early. Processing can take weeks. How to run a raffle fundraiser covers the full planning and compliance process.
What can I do instead of a raffle in a state where raffles are prohibited?
Organizations in Alabama, Hawaii, and Utah can run a charity auction instead. Auctions do not require a gambling permit and are legal in all 50 states. According to CharityAuctions.com platform data, auctions with mobile bidding raise an average of 43% more per event than paper-based formats. See how to run a charity auction for a full planning guide.
Related articles
- 9 Raffle Games to Help You Raise More Money
Raffle games boost fundraising by adding fun, competition, and anticipation. From 50/50 raffles to reverse raffles and prize pulls, the right format can increase revenue and engagement.
- How to Price Raffle Tickets: Strategies for Maximum Revenue
How to price raffle tickets for fundraisers. Price ranges, bundle pricing, tiered options, and a simple formula. Plus tax context for ticket buyers and when to adjust by format.
- Raffle Game Ideas: Formats and Creative Basket Themes
Raffle game ideas for fundraisers: 50/50, basket, wine pull, reverse raffle, and more. Plus creative raffle basket themes (spa, date night, outdoor adventure) to boost ticket sales.
- Silent Auction vs. Raffle: Which Is Best for Fundraising?
Silent auction vs. raffle: key differences in engagement, revenue, and complexity. When to choose each, when to combine both, and what about chance auctions (basket raffles)?