What types of federal gambling winnings are subject to income tax withholding?

Most forms of gambling winnings are indeed subject to income tax, including those from lotteries, and any winnings you get from casinos or other gambling establishments. Online gambling also falls under this umbrella as the Internet has only facilitated the way we gamble, not changed its taxable status. The form and location of the gamble doesn’t change the tax implications greatly, as long as it’s legal.

However, the tax withholding typically only kicks in when the winnings exceed a certain amount, which varies depending on the type of wager. For instance, lottery winnings under $5,000 aren’t automatically subject to withholding, though they’re still taxable. Also remember that you may be required to report the winnings on your tax return. Did you also take any losses this year? Because they can be used to offset your winnings.