Football squares raffle rules in Virginia

Are charitable football raffles legal in Virginia?

Virginia defines a raffle as a lottery won by “a random drawing of the name or prearranged number of one or more persons purchasing chances” (Code § 18.2-340.16), and its rules require the stubs be drawn from a receptacle in which each has an equal chance. A football squares winner set by the game score is neither, so it is not a Virginia raffle, and games not authorized by the article are prohibited. A true drawing-based raffle is fine (permit required once receipts pass $40,000/year). Get legal advice first.

Virginia's charitable raffles are governed by Code of Virginia, Charitable Gaming (Title 18.2, Article 1.1:1). Regulator: Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services — Office of Charitable and Regulatory Programs.

Do you need to register to run a raffle in Virginia?

A nonprofit that expects $40,000 or more in gross raffle receipts within any 12-month period must file a Charitable Gaming Permit Application (with a $200 fee) with the Office of Charitable and Regulatory Programs before it starts. Organizations under the $40,000 threshold may qualify for an exemption or simpler registration.

Permitted organizations file the required charitable-gaming financial reports with VDACS.

Can you sell raffle tickets online in Virginia?

Virginia regulates charitable gaming closely; sell raffle tickets in person unless VDACS permits another method.

Who can run a charitable raffle in Virginia?

Organizations exempt from income tax under IRC 501(c) that use raffles to raise funds — including booster clubs, councils, parishes, and PTAs.

How do you stay compliant in Virginia?

• Get a charitable-gaming permit before your raffle receipts reach $40,000 in a year.
• If you're under $40,000, check whether you qualify for an exemption or simpler registration.
• Meet Virginia's use-of-proceeds requirement.
• File the required financial reports with VDACS.
• Sell tickets in person unless VDACS permits another method.

Virginia requires a portion of gross receipts to be used for the organization's charitable purposes (a use-of-proceeds requirement); confirm the current minimum with VDACS.