Taxes
In connection with claiming a prize, the CT Lottery might obtain a winner’s Social Security number. Pursuant to Section 7(b) of the Privacy Act of 1974, we note that this disclosure is voluntary, but failure to provide the Social Security number will impact the ability to claim a prize.
Any request for a Social Security number is authorized by the Internal Revenue Code, Informational Publication 2011 (28) and Informational Publication 2015 (23) of the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services and will be used primarily for reporting tax withholdings as required by law.
Any questions regarding tax payments should be directed to the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services at 1-860-297-5962.
- Federal Income Tax: 24%
The CT Lottery is required by law to report and withhold federal income tax (currently 24%) on all gambling winnings valued at more than $5,000. (Under certain circumstances this tax rate may be 30%.) In addition, the Lottery is required to report to the IRS gambling winnings that are $600 or more, and at least 300 times the amount of the wager.
- State Income Tax: 6.99%
The CT Lottery is required by law to withhold Connecticut state income tax (currently 6.99%) on all gambling winnings that are either: 1) subject to federal withholding tax (i.e. proceeds more than $5,000); or 2) reportable for federal tax purposes (i.e. $600 or more and at least 300 times the amount of the wager.) Connecticut state income tax is required on all CT Lottery winnings regardless of state residency.
- Senior citizens are not exempt from having taxes withheld. The CT Lottery is obligated to report the winnings to the IRS and the CT Department of Revenue Services if winnings exceed the above thresholds. You may wish to consult with a tax advisor regarding your tax obligations.
- By law, non-resident aliens are subject to a flat 30% federal tax withholding and a 6.99% Connecticut state tax withholding on lottery winnings. An IRS Form 1042-S will be provided to the non-resident alien at the time the winning ticket is processed.
W2G Forms
If a claimant is to receive a W2G form, it is given at the time the winning ticket is processed at the High-Tier Claim Center or CT Lottery Headquarters.
Requesting a Duplicate W2G Form?
Duplicate W2G forms may be picked up in person at CT Lottery Headquarters with a photo ID. Requests for a duplicate W2G form can also be made in writing, accompanied by two (2) valid forms of signed identification. In your request, include your printed name, Social Security number, address, daytime phone number, your signature and indicate which tax year you are requesting. If your address has changed, include a utility bill or other proof of your new address.
Mail requests to:
CT Lottery Claims Dept.
15 Sterling Drive
Wallingford, CT 06492
