1. Gambling Winnings Subject To Self Employment Tax
  2. Gambling Winnings Self Employment Tax Calculator
  3. Gambling Winnings Self Employment Tax Rules

There are two main tax benefits of filing taxes as a professional gambler. First, it allows you to net your wins and losses which leads to a much lower AGI which in turn affects a great deal of tax deductions. Second, it allows you to deduct expenses incurred while gambling such as food, travel, and equipment. However, professional gamblers must pay self-employment tax which is considerable - recreational gamblers do not pay this tax.

Winnings

Gambling Winnings Subject To Self Employment Tax

Subject

Fortunately for you, Gambling winnings are not subject to Self-employment taxes despite being reported on Form 1099. They are subject to ordinary income tax and added to your regular income as miscellaneous income not subject to Self Employment taxes. Don't forget to deduct to your gambling losses on Scheduel A. In most cases, federal taxes on gambling winnings are 24%. Penalties can apply if you pay late or don’t report the winnings, though, so be diligent about tracking and reporting your earnings. Form WG-2 For Big Wins If you hit a big win, most gambling establishments will automatically give you a W2-G tax form. Gambling winnings are taxed by both the IRS (Internal Revenue Service) and by many states in US All winnings from all forms of gambling are taxable and must be declared as income on your tax return. All losses from all forms of gambling are deductible as an itemized deduction for recreational players, limited to the amount of winnings declared.

Gambling Winnings Self Employment Tax Calculator

Deciding on whether you should file as a professional is a very complex decision that is full of risks and uncertainties. However, given the complexity of the tax code even figuring out the amount of savings/cost of choosing professional over recreational is extremely difficult without basically doing your taxes twice. To evaluate taking a risk you must be aware of the reward - this calculator is designed to help you quickly estimate the monetary amount you stand to gain or lose by filing as a professional gambler.

Employment

Gambling Winnings Self Employment Tax Rules

Two important notes. First, this calculator does not take into account every possible scenario and is only an estimate. It is based on the criteria I used to make this decision for myself; I hope to expand it with time. Second, the calculator will not tell you whether you should file as a professional - it simply estimates the financial gain/loss of doing so to help you determine if the risk and hassle is worth the benefit. You should consult a tax professional who specializes in gambling.