Connecticut Raffle Laws: Complete Legal Guide for Nonprofits
Connecticut regulates raffles through its Department of Consumer Protection, Gaming Division. The state requires registration before conducting any raffle and imposes specific rules on who can participate, prize values, and reporting. This guide walks you through the requirements for running a compliant raffle in the Constitution State.
Legal Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about Connecticut raffle laws as of 2026. Laws change frequently. Always consult with legal counsel or the CT Department of Consumer Protection for current requirements specific to your situation.
Connecticut Raffle Laws: Quick Facts
Governing Agency:
CT Dept. of Consumer Protection, Gaming Division
Registration Required:
Yes - Raffle/Bazaar Registration
Who Can Hold Raffles:
Nonprofits (1+ year existence)
Filing Deadline:
At least 10 days before event
Post-Event Report:
Within 30 days
Online Ticket Sales:
Not explicitly authorized
Governing Law:
CT General Statutes Chapter 226
Who Can Conduct Raffles in Connecticut?
Connecticut limits raffle operations to qualifying nonprofit organizations. Understanding how raffles work is the first step toward planning a compliant event.
Eligible Organizations Include:
Charitable organizations registered with the Secretary of State
Religious organizations and houses of worship
Fraternal organizations and lodges
Civic and community organizations
Educational institutions and PTAs
Veterans organizations
Volunteer fire departments
Eligibility Requirements
Must have been in continuous existence for at least 1 year
Must be registered with the Connecticut Secretary of State
Must operate for charitable, religious, educational, or civic purposes
Primary purpose cannot be gambling or gaming activities
Connecticut Raffle Registration Process
Connecticut requires all raffle operators to register with the Department of Consumer Protection before the event.
Registration Steps:
Complete the Raffle/Bazaar Registration form
File at least 10 days before the scheduled raffle
Include organization details, event date, location, and prize information
Pay the applicable filing fee
Designate a responsible person within the organization
Connecticut Raffle Restrictions
Prize Rules
Prize limits are set based on the type of gaming event
Cash prizes are permitted within established limits
Prizes of $600 or more require IRS reporting
Total prize value per event may be capped
Operational Rules
Only members of the organization can manage the raffle
No compensation for raffle workers
Minors under 18 cannot purchase tickets
Net proceeds must go to the organization's stated charitable purpose
Cannot use professional gambling operators
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Conducting Your Raffle: Connecticut Requirements
Connecticut Raffle Compliance Checklist
Verify organization meets eligibility requirements (1+ year existence)
File Raffle/Bazaar Registration at least 10 days before event
Pay applicable filing fee
Design tickets with required information
Use only unpaid volunteer organization members
Restrict ticket sales to persons 18 and older
Conduct drawing at announced time and place
File financial report within 30 days after event
Maintain records for at least 3 years
Report prizes of $600+ to the IRS
Financial Management & Reporting
Post-Event Reporting
Connecticut requires a financial report within 30 days after the raffle:
Gross receipts from all ticket sales
Itemized expenses related to the raffle
Total prize values awarded
Net proceeds and their intended use
Winner information for prizes of $600 or more
Record Keeping
Organizations must maintain detailed records for at least 3 years, including ticket stubs, financial statements, prize documentation, and the registration form. For tips on organizing your raffle efficiently, see our guide on how to organize a raffle.
Online Raffle Rules in Connecticut
Connecticut does not explicitly authorize online raffle ticket sales. Tickets are generally expected to be sold in person. Organizations considering online sales should consult with the Department of Consumer Protection and legal counsel. For more on digital raffle regulations, see our online raffle laws guide.
Penalties for Violations
Warning: Conducting an unregistered raffle in Connecticut can result in criminal charges. Violations of the state's gaming laws may be classified as misdemeanors or felonies depending on the circumstances, with potential fines and imprisonment.
Common Violations
Failing to register with the Department of Consumer Protection
Exceeding prize limits
Compensating raffle workers
Failing to file post-event financial reports
Selling tickets to minors
Diverting proceeds from charitable purposes
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to hold a raffle in Connecticut?
Yes. Connecticut requires organizations to register with the Department of Consumer Protection's Gaming Division before conducting a raffle. You must file a Raffle/Bazaar Registration form at least 10 days before the event.
What are Connecticut's raffle prize limits?
Connecticut imposes prize limits based on the type of gaming permit. Check with the Department of Consumer Protection for current thresholds specific to your event type.
Who can conduct a raffle in Connecticut?
Connecticut allows nonprofit charitable, civic, educational, religious, and fraternal organizations to conduct raffles. The organization must be registered with the Secretary of State and have been in existence for at least 1 year.
Can raffle tickets be sold online in Connecticut?
Connecticut does not explicitly authorize online raffle ticket sales. Tickets are generally expected to be sold in person. Consult with the Department of Consumer Protection and legal counsel before attempting online sales.
What reports are required after a Connecticut raffle?
Connecticut requires organizations to file a financial report with the Department of Consumer Protection within 30 days after the raffle, including gross receipts, expenses, prize values, and net proceeds.
Connecticut's registration requirements are straightforward once you understand the process. File your registration early, keep detailed records, and submit your post-event report within 30 days.
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