Are online raffles illegal? Here's my idea...

**bdunndchi** · 06-09-2009 04:23 PM

I've heard that online raffles are illegal and I'm trying to think of a way to do something along these lines but legally. Here's my idea:

Sell 100 grab bags with the promise that one contains a specified big prize (which it will). The rest of the bags will contain random items. Does this make it legal?

Thanks!

**chuff1026** · 06-09-2009 04:47 PM

lol
nice
not sure if that will work
you are walking a thin line
i wanted to do something as well and i am working on it now
maybe we can chat
pm me

**PsiPro** · 06-09-2009 04:58 PM

like chuff said, you are walking a thin line.

However the law is going to vary state to state. you will need to contact a lawyer.

**chuff1026** · 06-09-2009 11:21 PM

the dude who owns bodog cant set foot in the US
he will be looking at prison
lol
and he is a US citizen

**BusinessAdviser** · 06-10-2009 12:35 AM

Naw. You can't. Why? Laws prevent you from running a game like this, "of chance." Games of skill are different, but games of chance - i.e. gambling - are not permitted.

**Lambo** · 06-10-2009 08:23 AM

Originally Posted by chuff1026

the dude who owns bodog cant set foot in the US
he will be looking at prison
lol
and he is a US citizen

that guy is also estimated to be worth a billion dollars

**PsiPro** · 06-10-2009 09:08 AM

Originally Posted by BusinessAdviser

Naw. You can't. Why? Laws prevent you from running a game like this, "of chance." Games of skill are different, but games of chance - i.e. gambling - are not permitted.

That shell game people on the streets always want me to play is legal tho right?

It takes skill.

**chuff1026** · 06-10-2009 11:11 AM

lol
lambo
i am not doubtng is he worth a couple hundred million
but some people are not willing to live in costa rica
i've been there

**bookatechie** · 06-10-2009 11:36 PM

I have thought of a site like this before also. You would have to do a no purchase necessary type of drawing and charge people for membership instead.
PM me if you want to hear more.

**nobody09** · 06-22-2009 03:22 PM

Sounds interesting,I tried to set up a on-line raffle myself but ran into problems(manily the cost of processing online credit card payments),and of course,the various conflicting laws of what was once a free county,I have quite a bit of free and clear property id like to raffle,maybe we can set something up,feel free to contact me at;earthman66666@yahoo.com(I am not very computer literate,so please allow 2-3 days for a for me to get back to you)I also have a friend who has a non-profit set up and is interested in fund raising as well

**pboychuk** · 06-22-2009 03:57 PM

you are walking down the wrong alley.

**chuff1026** · 02-09-2011 07:30 PM

Originally Posted by chuff1026

lol
lambo
i am not doubtng is he worth a couple hundred million
but some people are not willing to live in costa rica
i've been there

this is hella funny
i currently live in costa rica
lol
moved here 2 weeks ago

**tazz702** · 04-12-2012 04:33 PM

An online lottery is illegal.

A lottery is a includes:
1. Consideration;
2. Chance; and
3. Prize

A raffle sounds like it would fit the definition of a lottery.
If you take one of the three elements out, it will no longer be a lottery and allow you to get around this rule (ex. Sweepstake and contest).

Sweepstakes removes consideration (pay for entry, need to purchase something, or perform a task).
contest removes chance and involves skill.

However, you must follow certain rules to run an online sweepstakes or contest. You should consult an attorney before you proceed with either.