Tax Pros

2025 Tax Code - Gambling Changes

🎲 Why the Rules Changed

The IRS now wants clearer proof of gambling activity. Our Tax Pro team is excited to help you prevent mistakes and make sure refunds are correct. If you gamble β€” even on your phone β€” these rules affect you.

πŸ“Œ Simple Breakdown

  1. All Gambling Winnings Must Be Reported

You must report every dollar you win, including:

  • Casino wins
  • Sports betting
  • Online apps (FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, etc.)
  • Fantasy sports
  • Lottery, raffles, and scratch-offs
  • Online sweepstakes

If you win money, it gets taxed β€” no exceptions.

  1. You Can Deduct Gambling Losses, BUT…

You can only deduct up to the amount you won, and only if you have proof.

❌ Not enough anymore:

  • Handwritten notes
  • A notebook with wins/losses
  • Bank statement withdrawals

βœ”οΈ Acceptable proof now includes:

  • Casino win/loss statements
  • Sportsbook app statements
  • Screenshots of wagers
  • Digital activity summaries

Β 

  1. New Forms You May Receive

You might now receive:

  • 1099-K (from online platforms or P2P apps)
  • 1099-MISC (for promotional gambling payouts)
  • W-2G (for specific large wins)

Bring ALL forms to your tax appointment.

  1. What Our Tax Pro Preparer Needs from You

Please bring:

  • Driver’s license
  • Casino/sportsbook win/loss statements
  • App screenshots or year-end summaries
  • 1099 forms
  • Proof of losses
  • Your gambling apps list

This ensures your return is filed correctly and avoids IRS issues.