What’s the best way to not get taxed on my gambling winnings?

Sure, you’re right about the IRS taxing all gambling winnings as income. However, you can take certain steps to lessen the tax bite. One of the most common ways to handle this is by itemizing your deductions instead of having a standard deduction. You can report your losses as an itemized deduction on schedule A, only up to the amount of your winnings. Also, keep detailed records of both your wins and losses. The IRS allows you to offset your winnings with your gambling losses, but only if you have proof.

Keeping track of your gambling activities is important. You need to keep strict documentation of how much you’ve wagered, the dates you gambled, the games or races you bet on, the establishment at which the gambling occurred, and other relevant information. This includes receipts, tickets, statements, and other paperwork. It may seem strenuous, but it’ll help in tax planning and deductions.

Now, while these steps can help, remember that tax laws can be complex. Therefore, it’s always best to consult with a professional tax advisor who is familiar with gambling winnings and their respective tax implications. The aim here is to minimize your tax responsibilities within the right means of the law. This reinforces the need to follow the IRS rules and regulations explicitly and promptly, while searching for ways to lessen the tax burden. A CPA or tax lawyer who is experienced in these matters could be of great assistance.