Hell yes, you are paying tax. Not sure about outside of the U.S. It's a gift and is considered income in the eyes of the IRS. You'll receive a 1099 IRS form indicating the value of the door prize. It's taxed as income. It all depends on your specific tax situation and bracket. Which is why it's important to consult a tax consultant after winning and before taking receipt of the door prize. There may be some deductions you can take that helps, a little. But in the end, the Fed is going to get their share. Also, depending on which state you live in, you may be paying sales tax upon registering the door prize and possibly state income tax. Again, it depends on your specific tax situation. So I will reiterate one more time: Consult with a tax specialist as soon as you win the door prize. In fact, consult them now so you have an idea of what to expect.
But also remember, no matter what you may be paying in taxes....it's substantially less than buying the door prize. It's worth it. And I know some have asked if the club can also pay for the taxes too....that would be cool but....guess what? That would also be taxable.
There's just no way around the IRS.
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