Is it illegal to host a poker tournament with PRIZES instead of money ?

[NineT9mustang]

If I were to host a Poker tournament, real money buy in , but the payout was NOT real money, it was a prize like a xbox, or tv or something, would that be considered ILLEGAL ? Or legal ?

-Matt

[waldo]

thats legal

[wysimdnwyg]

Depends on the state in question. In TN, that would be illegal. Regardless of the prize (cash or other), buying your way in makes it gambling, and thus, illegal.

[magoo]

I imagine this very much depends on where you are. I was recently in the United Arab Emirates for example where any form of gambling would get you a hefty jail sentence. Things arent so strict in the States but the rules will vary from State to State. I suggest you check with local authorities in your own State

[deadmanshand]

any time that you have to pay real money to win cash or prizes it is illegal

[lukemccoy]

I'd say illegal but I'd check out what the laws in the state you're in.

[pokerphun]

are you making a profit on this?? if so, you might be in trouble for tax violation (assuming it was a hefty amount of money). I had a friend who rakes his 10-20-20-40 stud game for years and then got a HUGE fine and 3 mos. in jail for tax evasion and not having a gaming license.

Here in Michigan if you or the buisness your playing in doesnt make any money from the game not including say the players bought food or drinks from the place its legal. Like my brother owns a deli and we play there sometimes and its legal.

[AceofSpader]

Originally Posted by magoo

I imagine this very much depends on where you are. I was recently in the United Arab Emirates for example where any form of gambling would get you a hefty jail sentence. Things arent so strict in the States but the rules will vary from State to State. I suggest you check with local authorities in your own State

Yeah, its not that strict or what I like to call stupid in the US.

Ill say it once and Ill say it again, nothing is illegal unless you get caught.

AoS