Why sign in to the Community?

  • Submit a question
  • Check your notifications
Sign in to the Community or Sign in to TurboTax and start working on your taxes
Level 1
posted Feb 3, 2026 10:00:31 AM

Deductions

Can I deduct the cost of tickets to a Charitable organization if it's a lottery with NO winnings?

0 1 661
1 Best answer
Employee Tax Expert
Feb 3, 2026 10:11:43 AM

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 Replies
Employee Tax Expert
Feb 3, 2026 10:11:43 AM

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.