Poker and taxes: do you pay tax on poker winnings?
Whether you pay tax on poker winnings depends on where you are tax resident, where you play and whether poker is a hobby or your job. This page is a general overview, not tax advice. For your own situation, ask a local tax adviser.
The two big questions
Section titled “The two big questions”- Recreational or professional? Many countries don’t tax occasional winnings, but treat regular income from poker as taxable business income.
- Licensed where? Some countries only exempt winnings from operators licensed in that country or in the EU/EEA.
Examples (general rules, late 2026)
Section titled “Examples (general rules, late 2026)”| Country | General rule for players |
|---|---|
| United Kingdom | Gambling winnings are not taxed for players. |
| United States | Gambling winnings are taxable income. Non-residents who cash in US tournaments can have tax withheld (often 30%) unless a tax treaty applies. |
| Malta | Recreational players don’t pay tax on poker winnings; professionals who make poker their main income may be taxed. |
| Spain | Winnings generally have to be declared as income in your tax return. |
Rules change, and details (thresholds, losses, treaties) matter. Always check the current rules in your country.
Keep good records
Section titled “Keep good records”Even where winnings are tax-free, records help if you are ever asked where money came from:
- Keep a log of deposits, withdrawals and results per session. See tracking your results.
- Save cashier statements and tournament payout confirmations.
- For live events, keep receipts and any tax forms you are given.
Crypto and bonuses
Section titled “Crypto and bonuses”Buying, selling or converting crypto can have its own tax rules. See crypto poker. Bonuses and rakeback are usually counted together with your winnings, but rules differ.
Related: is poker legal? and can you make a living from poker?
Do I pay tax on poker winnings?
Section titled “Do I pay tax on poker winnings?”It depends on your country and whether you play recreationally or professionally. Many countries don’t tax occasional winnings; some tax all winnings.
Are poker winnings taxed in the UK?
Section titled “Are poker winnings taxed in the UK?”No. In the UK gambling winnings are not taxed for players.
Are poker winnings taxed in the US?
Section titled “Are poker winnings taxed in the US?”Yes. Gambling winnings are taxable income, and non-residents can have tax withheld at US events unless a treaty applies.
What records should I keep?
Section titled “What records should I keep?”Session results, deposits and withdrawals, cashier statements and tournament payout confirmations.