Q: Do I need to file taxes for online gambling winnings as an F-1 student in PA?
I'm an F-1 student currently residing in Pennsylvania. In 2024, my gross winnings from online gambling apps playing blackjack, roulette, slots, etc., totaled around $17,000, with wagers around $16,000, resulting in a net income of less than $1,000. The apps did not generate a tax document for me based on my activity, and these gross winnings are spread across multiple platforms, with the largest being about $5,000. I have some records available within the apps. Do I need to file taxes for these winnings, and if so, what forms do I need to file? What is the general taxation rate for such winnings?
Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
- (916) 704-3009
- View Profile
- Answered
A:
As an F-1 student in Pennsylvania, you are still subject to U.S. tax laws on your income, including winnings from online gambling. Even though the gambling apps did not issue a tax document, you are still required to report the winnings on your tax return. Since your net income from gambling is less than $1,000, it may not result in a large tax liability, but you still need to file.
You will likely need to file a federal tax return (Form 1040NR, since you're on an F-1 visa) and report your gambling winnings. You'll need to include the winnings as "Other Income" on your return. While gambling winnings are taxed as ordinary income, you can also deduct your losses up to the amount of your winnings, so keeping track of your wagers is essential.
The general taxation rate for gambling winnings depends on your total income and the applicable tax brackets. In your case, since the winnings are relatively small, your tax liability may be minimal. However, it’s a good idea to report everything accurately to avoid potential penalties. If you’re unsure about how to proceed, consider reaching out to a tax professional who is familiar with F-1 student tax issues.
Justia Ask A Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get free answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask A Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.
The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between Justia and you, or between any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions and you, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask A Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.
Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises, or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.
