South Carolina Raffle Laws: Complete Legal Guide for Nonprofits

South Carolina has historically strict gambling laws, but a constitutional amendment and subsequent legislation now allow qualified nonprofit organizations to conduct raffles under specific conditions. The rules are tighter than most states, with caps on ticket prices, limits on raffle frequency, and a 10-year organizational existence requirement. This guide covers everything you need to know about holding a legal raffle in the Palmetto State.

Legal Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about South Carolina raffle laws as of 2026. Laws change frequently. Always consult with legal counsel for current requirements specific to your situation.

South Carolina Raffle Laws: Quick Facts

Raffles Legal:Yes, for qualifying nonprofits only
Permit Required:No specific state permit
Who Can Hold Raffles:501(c)(3) nonprofits (10+ years old)
Max Ticket Price:$100 per ticket
Raffles Per Year:Maximum 4
Online Ticket Sales:Not specifically authorized
Governing Law:SC Code Section 33-57

Who Can Conduct Raffles in South Carolina?

South Carolina's raffle exemption is narrow compared to most states. Only specific types of organizations that meet strict criteria can legally hold raffles.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Must be a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization
  • Must have been in continuous existence for at least 10 years
  • Must be organized and operated for charitable, religious, educational, or community purposes
  • Must not distribute net earnings to any private individual
  • Raffle proceeds must benefit the organization's exempt purpose

The 10-year requirement is one of the strictest in the nation. For a broader look at what constitutes a raffle and how different states handle them, see our general raffle guide.

South Carolina Raffle Restrictions

Ticket Price and Frequency Limits

  • Maximum ticket price: $100 per ticket
  • Maximum raffles per year: 4 per calendar year
  • Cannot bundle tickets to circumvent the price cap
  • Each raffle must be a separate, distinct event

Prize Rules

  • No specific state-imposed prize value cap
  • Cash and non-cash prizes are permitted
  • Prizes of $600 or more must be reported to the IRS
  • Winners are responsible for applicable taxes

Operational Requirements

  • Only members of the organization can manage the raffle
  • No compensation for individuals conducting the raffle
  • Proceeds must benefit the organization's charitable purpose
  • Cannot use professional gambling operators

Simplify Your South Carolina Raffle

See how rafflr helps you run compliant raffles with proper tracking and transparent drawings

Conducting Your Raffle: South Carolina Requirements

South Carolina Raffle Compliance Checklist

  • Verify organization has 501(c)(3) status
  • Confirm organization has existed for at least 10 years
  • Ensure this will not be the 5th raffle of the calendar year
  • Set ticket prices at $100 or below
  • Use only unpaid organization members to conduct the raffle
  • Design tickets with organization name, drawing details, and price
  • Maintain detailed financial records
  • Report prizes of $600+ to the IRS
  • Dedicate net proceeds to charitable purposes

Financial Management & Reporting

While South Carolina does not require a state-level post-event report specifically for raffles, organizations must maintain proper financial records and comply with federal tax reporting requirements. For tips on raffle ticket design, see our raffle ticket templates.

  • Track all gross receipts from ticket sales
  • Document all prizes awarded and their values
  • Record all raffle-related expenses
  • Account for net proceeds and their use
  • Issue W-2G forms for prizes of $600 or more
  • Report raffle income on the organization's annual tax return

Online Raffle Rules in South Carolina

South Carolina law does not specifically authorize online raffle ticket sales. Given the state's historically strict gambling stance, online ticket sales could be considered a violation. Organizations should sell tickets in person. For more information on digital raffle regulations, see our online raffle laws guide.

Penalties for Violations

Warning: Conducting a raffle that does not meet South Carolina's strict exemption criteria can result in criminal charges under the state's gambling laws. South Carolina treats illegal gambling seriously, with potential penalties including fines and imprisonment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are raffles legal in South Carolina?

Yes, but only for qualifying nonprofit organizations. South Carolina amended its constitution to allow nonprofit raffles with specific restrictions. For-profit raffles remain illegal.

What is the maximum ticket price for a South Carolina raffle?

South Carolina limits raffle ticket prices to a maximum of $100 per ticket.

How many raffles can a nonprofit hold per year in South Carolina?

South Carolina limits nonprofit organizations to no more than 4 raffles per calendar year.

Do South Carolina raffles require a permit?

South Carolina does not require a specific state-issued raffle permit, but organizations must meet all qualifying criteria under SC Code Section 33-57, including the 10-year existence requirement.

Can raffle tickets be sold online in South Carolina?

South Carolina law does not specifically authorize online raffle ticket sales. Given the state's strict gambling laws, organizations should sell tickets in person and consult legal counsel before attempting online sales.

Official Resources

Looking for raffle laws in other states?

View All States | North Carolina | Georgia

Ready to Run a Compliant South Carolina Raffle?

South Carolina's raffle laws are among the stricter in the nation, but established nonprofits can still use raffles as an effective fundraising tool. The key is meeting the 10-year existence requirement, keeping ticket prices at $100 or below, and limiting yourself to 4 raffles per year.

rafflr makes it easy to manage your raffle drawing, track winners, and maintain proper records for South Carolina compliance. Get started with rafflr today and run your next raffle with confidence.