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Level 1
February 3, 2026
Solved

Deductions

  • February 3, 2026
  • 1 reply
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Can I deduct the cost of tickets to a Charitable organization if it's a lottery with NO winnings?

Best answer by MaryK4

No, you cannot deduct the cost of raffle, lottery, or bingo tickets purchased from a charitable organization, even if you do not win any prizes. The IRS considers these purchases as "quid pro quo" contributions, where you receive a chance to win something in return for your money, rather than a pure, deductible gift.  See Contributions You Can Deduct.

1 reply

MaryK4
MaryK4Answer
Level 15
February 3, 2026

No, you cannot deduct the cost of raffle, lottery, or bingo tickets purchased from a charitable organization, even if you do not win any prizes. The IRS considers these purchases as "quid pro quo" contributions, where you receive a chance to win something in return for your money, rather than a pure, deductible gift.  See Contributions You Can Deduct.

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