Raffle Permits
Who Can Apply?
To see if your organization is registered with the AGO, click here.
Before conducting a raffle, the organization must obtain a raffle/bazaar permit from the City or Town clerk where the raffle is going to be held.
Application Process:
The Town Clerk's office has created a questionnaire to help speed the process of applying for a Raffle Permit. This questionnaire includes the application form and the annual report form as well as a rundown of the application process and the organization's requirements after receiving their permit. Please print and complete the questionnaire and forms before appearing at the Town Clerk's office.
The application form must be signed by three (3) officers of the organization. The applicant must appear in person with the application form completed and signed with $25, cash or check payable to the Town of Belmont. If the organization had previously filed for a Raffle Permit, an Annual Report must be filed with the Town Clerk's office before the new Raffle Permit can be issued.
The Town Clerk and Belmont Police Chief will determine eligibility and qualification. Once a result is determined, the applicant is informed. If approved, the organization must pick up the Raffle Permit before the first event can be held.
One year after it is issued, within 30 days of the permit's expiration, the organization must file two (2) copies of the annual financial report with the Town Clerk certified by the same officers on the application and the accountant. The Annual Reports may be filed at the same time the applicant applies for a new Raffle Permit. The Town Clerk retains one copy and submits the other to the Massachusetts Commissioner of Public Safety.
What is Required on the Annual Report
- Number of raffles held;
- Amount of money received;
- Expenses;
- Winners of prizes worth over $250;
- Net proceeds; and
- Use of the funds.
The Lottery Commission:
Once a Raffle Permit is issued, the Massachusetts State Lottery Commission will send information and forms directly to the organization about tax requirements.
Within 10 days of the raffle, the organization must file a report and pay 5% tax on the gross proceeds to the Lottery Commission. This is an excise tax on wagering and applies to all groups. Non-profit status does not exempt you from this tax. Interest and penalties may be assessed on late returns.