Taxes can be overwhelming enough without considering the complexities of gambling winnings and losses. Whether you’ve tried your luck at a casino, bet on a sports game, or bought a handful of lottery tickets this year, one question naturally arises: “Can you write off gambling losses?” The answer might surprise you because while gambling losses are indeed tax-deductible, the rules and requirements can be tricky. This in-depth guide will walk you through everything you need to know about gambling losses tax rules, how to itemize and prove gambling losses on your taxes, and where to file them on your tax return. By the end, you’ll have a clear path to ensure your gambling-related tax matters are accurate and optimized under current regulations.
Published: January 28, 2025
Introduction
Why This Topic Matters
Most people only realize that any gambling winnings are taxable income at tax time. This shock leads to a second question: “Are gambling losses deductible?” The short answer is yes, but there are necessary restrictions:
- You can only deduct gambling losses to the extent of your gambling winnings.
- You must report all your winnings as taxable income.
- You have to itemize your deductions on Schedule A to claim losses.
In other words, you can’t deduct gambling losses if you take the Standard Deduction. This article will help clarify the ins and outs of these requirements so you’re never caught off guard by tax obligations related to your gambling activities.
Who Should Read This
- Casual bettors who dabble in lotteries, sports pools, or the occasional casino trip.
- Frequent gamblers who regularly visit casinos, engage in online betting, or play poker.
- Individuals who’ve had significant wins or losses and want to manage their taxes properly.
- Tax professionals seeking a comprehensive resource on gambling losses.
Key Takeaways
- You can only claim gambling losses if you also report winnings.
- Losses are deductible only up to the amount of your reported gambling winnings.
- Proper record-keeping is essential to prove gambling losses on your return.
- Recent changes labeled under new tax law gambling losses might affect how you file.
Gambling Losses Tax Basics
What Qualifies as Gambling Income
Gambling income encompasses a broad range of activities, including:
- Casino Winnings (slots, poker, blackjack, roulette)
- Lottery Winnings (state-run lotteries, multi-state lotteries like Powerball, scratch-off tickets)
- Horse Racing (bets placed at the track or online)
- Sports Betting (football, basketball, baseball, any professional or collegiate sports events)
- Online Gambling (virtual casinos, online poker tournaments, e-sports betting)
- Raffles and Contests (prizes that have a wagering element)
Any money or prize you receive from these activities is regarded as gambling income and is taxable. Even small wins—like a $20 scratch-off ticket—should technically be reported.
Definition of Gambling Losses
- The cash or cost of tickets you wager and lose.
- Buy-ins for poker or other table games that don’t result in winnings.
- The cost of raffle or lottery tickets that yield no payout.
Simply put, any money you risk (and do not get back) in a gambling activity can be classified as a gambling loss.
Reporting Your Winnings
All gambling winnings count toward your taxable income, no matter how small. While casinos typically issue a Form W-2G if you surpass certain thresholds (e.g., $1,200 for slot machines), you are still obligated to report lower winnings even if no W-2G is issued.
Significance of Reporting
Since you can only deduct losses up to the amount of reported winnings, failing to declare your winnings correctly can automatically disqualify you from claiming any losses. Transparency and thoroughness are essential to keep everything above board with the IRS.
Tax Forms to Know
- Form W-2G: You’ll receive this for large jackpots or if you win above specific thresholds.
- Form 1040: The standard federal tax form where you report your total income.
- Schedule A (Form 1040): Itemizing deductions, including gambling losses.
Itemizing vs. Standard Deduction
If you opt for the Standard Deduction, you forfeit the opportunity to write off your gambling losses. The only way to claim these losses is by itemizing on Schedule A. Whether or not to itemize depends on whether your total itemizable expenses (charitable contributions, mortgage interest, certain medical expenses, and gambling losses) exceed the Standard Deduction for your filing status.
Casual vs. Professional Gamblers
- Casual Gambler: Most bettors fall into this category, reporting gambling winnings as income and deducting losses (to the extent of winnings) on Schedule A.
- Professional Gambler: A small percentage of individuals can qualify for professional status, treating gambling as a business, with slightly different rules on reporting and deducting losses. However, even professionals cannot deduct losses exceeding their gambling winnings.
Key Takeaway
Your ability to claim losses is directly linked to your willingness to report all winnings and to itemize your deductions. Understanding these gambling losses tax basics sets the stage for proper record-keeping and accurate filing.
Are Gambling Losses Deductible?
The Short Answer
Yes, you can write off gambling losses, but only under these conditions:
- You report all your gambling winnings.
- Your losses do not exceed the amount of your winnings.
- You choose to itemize deductions on Schedule A.
This means you cannot use gambling losses to reduce other types of income, such as wages or self-employment earnings.
Legal Framework
Section 165(d) of the U.S. tax code stipulates that a taxpayer can deduct losses from wagering transactions only up to the amount of wins from those transactions. This prevents someone from using significant gambling losses to offset substantial non-gambling income.
Itemizing vs. Standard Deduction
If you wonder how to deduct gambling losses without itemizing, the answer is that typically, you cannot unless you are a professional gambler filing on a different schedule. For most taxpayers, not itemizing means no chance to deduct losses.
Offsetting Other Income?
You cannot apply gambling losses to your regular employment income or other forms of taxable income. For instance, if you have $10,000 in gambling losses but only $2,000 in winnings, you can only claim $2,000 in losses. The remaining $8,000 cannot be carried forward or used to reduce your salary or business income.
Big Wins Scenario
If you score a large jackpot—say $50,000—and lose $30,000 in the same year, you may deduct that $30,000 from your $50,000 in winnings, ultimately paying taxes on $20,000 of gambling income. Remember that you’ll need solid records to substantiate those $30,000 losses.
Professional Gamblers
Professionals generally report gambling income and losses on Schedule C, treating their betting activity as a business. They might deduct related expenses like travel, lodging, or entry fees. However, even professionals can’t claim more losses than they’ve won. The IRS requires that professional gamblers maintain meticulous records and demonstrate that gambling is their genuine livelihood.
State Tax Implications
Many states follow federal rules, but some disallow or limit gambling loss deductions. Always check your state’s laws. You might face additional forms or experience restrictions on how much of your losses you can subtract from your taxable income at the state level.
Bottom Line
Are gambling losses deductible? Yes—within strict parameters. If considering this deduction, keep your documentation precise and your claims honest. Overstating losses or failing to report winnings can lead to IRS scrutiny and potential penalties.
New Tax Law Gambling Losses Update
Evolving Gambling Landscape
The legalization of sports betting in various states and the explosive growth of online casinos have brought gambling to the forefront of tax policy discussions. Recent changes—often described under new tax law gambling losses—can affect how you file, especially if you frequently gamble or have multiple sources of gambling income.
Increased Standard Deduction
Recent tax reforms significantly increased the Standard Deduction. Many taxpayers no longer itemize because their combined allowable deductions (including gambling losses) may not exceed the Standard Deduction threshold. Consequently, fewer individuals can reap the benefits of deducting gambling losses.
Clarification for Online Gambling
With the proliferation of online gambling and sports betting, the IRS has clarified that online gambling activities must be reported just like their brick-and-mortar counterparts. The same rules apply for reporting if you win money through an online sportsbook or poker site. Losses must also be documented in the same detailed manner.
Thresholds for W-2G Forms
Although the issuance thresholds remain around:
- $1,200 for slots or bingo,
- $1,500 for keno,
- $5,000 for poker tournaments,
These numbers might be updated or adjusted in the future. Keep an eye on any legislative or IRS announcements, especially if you regularly reach these thresholds.
Professional Gambler Scrutiny
The IRS has become more particular about who qualifies as a professional gambler. Demonstrating that you gamble consistently with the intent to make a profit, maintain proper books and records, and treat gambling like a business is crucial. You’re deemed a casual gambler subject to the standard itemizing rules without meeting these criteria.
State-Level Variations
Some states align with the federal approach, but others may have unique stipulations. For instance, certain states do not allow you to deduct losses at all, while others may let you fully or partially offset gambling income with losses.
Why Keep Up with Changes
Staying informed about tax law developments is essential for gamblers. Slight modifications in deduction limits or filing thresholds can alter how you report your gambling activity. This is especially important if you’re on the fence about whether to itemize.
How Do I Prove Gambling Losses on My Taxes?
Record-Keeping Essentials
How do I prove gambling losses on my taxes? The most critical aspect is thorough record-keeping. The IRS wants to see precise, accurate, and contemporaneous records of your bets. Vague references or estimates are not acceptable. You need:
- Original Wagering Tickets (winning and losing)
- Receipts from casinos and other gambling venues
- Bank and credit card statements to support your claims
- A dedicated Gambling Log or Diary
What Counts as a Gambling Log?
Consider maintaining a simple notebook or digital spreadsheet. Each time you gamble, jot down:
- Date
- Location or Website
- Type of Bet (slots, sports, poker)
- Amount Won or Lost
- Running Total for the Session
- Notations on any form received (W-2G, etc.)
This approach provides a running narrative of your gambling activities throughout the year.
When Will I Get a W-2G Form?
You’ll generally receive a Form W-2G from the casino or payer if you:
- Win $1,200 or more on a slot machine or bingo
- Win $1,500 or more on keno
- Win $5,000 or more in poker tournaments (after the buy-in)
However, receiving a W-2G does not exempt you from reporting smaller wins. It provides the IRS with an official record of your larger gambling payouts.
Are Bank Statements Proof of Gambling Losses?
Bank statements alone can help but might not suffice as definitive proof. They show money going in and out, but they won’t necessarily tie each transaction to a specific bet. Coupling bank statements with a gambling diary, ticket stubs, or official receipts from gaming establishments strengthens your case should the IRS ever question your deductions.
Combining Multiple Forms of Evidence
The best approach is to compile different types of documentation:
- Casino Win/Loss Statements: Some casinos provide these annual summaries. They can be a helpful reference but may not satisfy all IRS requirements if they lack specificity.
- Credit Card or Bank Statements: Good supplementary evidence, but not enough.
- Personal Log: Complements other records and provides detailed day-to-day activity.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Relying solely on a casino loyalty program statement with minimal detail.
- Keeping receipts scattered and unorganized makes matching losses to specific sessions challenging.
- Trying to deduct losses for which you have no substantiation (e.g., lost cash wagers with no tickets or logs).
Why Detailed Proof Matters
If you claim significant gambling losses, expect the IRS to ask for documentation. Clear, consistent, and thorough records can quickly quell doubts, while lacking or inadequate records might result in denied deductions or additional scrutiny.
Step-by-Step: How to Deduct Gambling Losses
Report All Gambling Winnings
Make sure you accurately tally every bit of gambling income:
- Gather all W-2G forms.
- Include smaller wins from raffles or scratch-off tickets.
- Sum up your total gambling winnings for the year.
Decide Whether to Itemize
Compare the Standard Deduction to your total itemizable expenses, including gambling losses. Only choose to itemize if:
- Your combined deductions (mortgage interest, charitable contributions, medical expenses, etc.) plus gambling losses exceed the Standard Deduction.
- You want to claim losses that offset your winnings.
If you don’t itemize, you won’t be able to claim gambling losses. That fact alone might push you to consider itemizing if your potential deductions are high enough.
Organize Proof of Losses
Compile every bit of evidence:
- Wagering tickets (both winning and losing)
- Casino receipts
- Thorough gambling diary or log
- Bank and credit card statements
Sorting these by date or venue can help match them to your reported winnings.
Fill Out Schedule A
Use Schedule A (attached to your Form 1040) to itemize deductions. Near the bottom, there’s a section labeled “Other Itemized Deductions,” where you enter your total gambling losses. Ensure the number you input does not exceed your reported gambling winnings.
Check and Recheck
Accurately add up your itemized deductions, ensuring that your gambling losses follow the rule of not exceeding your documented winnings. An error here could trigger an IRS notice or even an audit.
Keep Records Secure
Retain all documentation for at least three to six years. While the IRS generally has a three-year window to audit, it can request further information if there’s any suspicion of underreported income or significant discrepancies.
Example of Filing
Suppose you ended the year with $5,000 in various gambling winnings and $4,000 in losses.
- You report $5,000 as “Other Income” on Form 1040.
- On Schedule A, under “Other Itemized Deductions,” you list $4,000 in losses.
- Net effect: You are taxed on $1,000 of gambling income.
Common Pitfalls
- Forgetting to include small winnings, which still need to be reported.
- Attempting to claim more losses than reported winnings.
- Failing to keep consistent, detailed evidence.
Following these steps and double-checking your figures will minimize headaches and ensure you comply with IRS rules regarding gambling losses and tax deductions.
State-by-State Breakdown of Gambling Tax Laws
Nevada
- No State Income Tax: Nevada famously levies no personal state income tax on residents or nonresidents.
- Gambling Regulations: As the epicenter of U.S. casino gambling (Las Vegas, Reno), Nevada relies heavily on casino licensing fees and taxes on gaming establishments, but individuals do not pay a state tax on gambling winnings.
- IRS Obligations: While Nevada does not tax gambling winnings, you’re still required to report your winnings on your federal tax return. If you itemize, you can deduct gambling losses up to the winnings on your Schedule A (Form 1040).
- Nonresidents: Nonresidents who gamble in Nevada pay federal taxes on any U.S.-based gambling winnings but owe no additional state tax to Nevada.
New Jersey
- State Income Tax Range: New Jersey’s state income tax rates range from around 1.4% to 10.75%, depending on income brackets.
- Casino Hub: Atlantic City is a major gambling destination with numerous casinos, sports betting, and online gambling platforms.
- Reporting Winnings: Residents’ gambling winnings are taxed as part of their regular income. Nonresidents must report New Jersey–sourced gambling winnings if they exceed certain thresholds.
- Deductions: As with federal rules, you can generally deduct gambling losses (up to the total of your winnings) only if you itemize for New Jersey state taxes. Always check if your total itemized deductions surpass the state’s threshold.
Pennsylvania
- Flat State Income Tax: Pennsylvania has a flat personal income tax rate of 3.07%.
- Major Casinos: Several large casinos operate in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and other areas, plus legalized sports betting and online gambling.
- Taxation of Winnings: Residents pay 3.07% of their net gambling income. Nonresidents may owe tax if they have Pennsylvania-sourced gambling income.
- Deductions: Pennsylvania generally follows federal guidelines for gambling losses, but you should review the PA-40 instructions or consult a local professional to confirm if specific losses can be offset at the state level.
Mississippi
- State Income Tax Range: Mississippi’s income tax ranges from 0% to 5% (phasing out the 4% bracket by 2026), depending on income levels.
- Riverboat and Gulf Coast Casinos: Popular gambling hubs include Biloxi, Tunica, and various riverfront locales.
- Gambling Winnings: Residents report gambling winnings under state income. Nonresidents may have to file a nonresident Mississippi return if they have substantial in-state gambling earnings.
- Losses: Mississippi typically allows losses to offset winnings for itemizing taxpayers. However, check the specifics each year, as state-level guidance can shift.
Connecticut
- State Income Tax Range: Connecticut’s income tax rates vary from 3% to 6.99%, depending on income brackets.
- Tribal Casinos: Home to two of the largest tribal casinos in the U.S.—Foxwoods Resort Casino and Mohegan Sun.
- Winnings Reporting: Gambling winnings are included in your Connecticut state income. Nonresidents must generally file a CT nonresident return if they’ve won significant amounts.
- Offsetting Losses: Connecticut typically aligns with federal rules, permitting itemized deductions for gambling losses—but only if you itemize on your federal and Connecticut returns (if required).
New York
- State Income Tax Range: New York’s income tax brackets range from roughly 4% to over 10% for very high earners. New York City residents pay an additional local income tax.
- Casino Expansion: Several commercial and tribal casinos operate upstate, plus sports betting is now legal in physical venues and online apps.
- Winnings for Residents: New York residents include gambling winnings in their taxable income.
- Nonresidents: If you gamble in New York and score large winnings, you might have to file a nonresident tax return (Form IT-203).
- Deductions: If you itemize at the federal level, you generally can itemize losses on your New York return. However, confirm whether your itemized deductions exceed the standard deduction thresholds for New York state.
Michigan
- Flat State Income Tax: Michigan has a flat state income tax rate of around 4.25% (subject to legislative changes).
- Online and Retail Casinos: Detroit hosts major commercial casinos, while tribal casinos are spread throughout the state. Michigan also legalized online casinos and sports betting in recent years.
- Reporting Requirements: Michigan requires residents to report all gambling winnings. Nonresidents must file a nonresident return if they have Michigan-sourced gambling gains.
- Loss Deductions: Generally, you can deduct gambling losses on the MI-1040 if you itemize and the losses do not exceed your reported winnings.
Massachusetts
- State Income Tax: Massachusetts taxes personal income at a flat rate of 5% (recently reduced from 5.05%).
- Major Casinos: The state has several large commercial casinos (e.g., Encore Boston Harbor, MGM Springfield) and a growing sports betting industry.
- Winnings for Residents: Massachusetts residents pay 5% on net gambling winnings.
- Nonresidents: If you win in Massachusetts, you may have to file a nonresident tax return, depending on the total income and residency.
- Itemized Deductions: Massachusetts does not always follow the federal itemized deduction model strictly. The ability to offset gambling losses can be limited. Double-check local guidelines each tax season.
Florida
- No Personal State Income Tax: Florida does not impose a personal state income tax.
- Casinos and Racetracks: These are primarily tribal casinos (Seminole Hard Rock) and pari-mutuel facilities for horse and dog racing. Sports betting regulations are evolving.
- Reporting: Residents and nonresidents do not pay state tax on gambling winnings. You must still report them federally.
- Tribal Considerations: Tribal casinos operate under compacts with the state. From a federal tax standpoint, gambling winnings at tribal casinos are taxed similarly to other U.S. winnings.
California
- State Income Tax Range: California has one of the highest state income tax ranges, from about 1% up to 13.3% for top earners.
- Card Rooms and Tribal Casinos: California has many tribal casinos and licensed card rooms. Online sports betting is not fully legalized (as of this writing), but proposals recur regularly.
- Winnings: California residents report all gambling winnings on their CA state return. Nonresidents who earn significant gambling income in California may be required to file a nonresident return.
- Losses: California follows federal guidelines, so losses can generally offset winnings if you itemize and if your total itemized deductions exceed the standard deduction.
Louisiana
- State Income Tax Range: Approximately 1.85% to 4.25%, depending on income brackets (subject to change).
- Casino Scene: Known for riverboat casinos, tribal establishments, and land-based casinos, with a rising sports betting scene.
- Reporting: Residents list gambling winnings on their state returns. Nonresidents with Louisiana-sourced gambling income might need to file a nonresident return.
- Losses: Typically, you can only deduct losses up to the amount of your winnings, following federal itemizing principles.
Oklahoma
- State Income Tax: Oklahoma imposes a graduated personal income tax ranging up to 4.75%. If you win gambling income in Oklahoma and meet the filing thresholds, you’ll owe state income tax accordingly.
- Gambling Landscape: Known for its numerous tribal casinos operating under gaming compacts, Oklahoma offers slot machines, table games, and more, with each tribal casino subject to both federal and tribal regulations.
- IRS and State Obligations: Even if the casino does not withhold state tax, you must report all gambling winnings on your Oklahoma and federal tax returns. Losses can be deducted up to the amount of your winnings only if you itemize on Schedule A.
- Nonresidents: Visitors who earn gambling income in Oklahoma may need to file a nonresident state tax return (Form 511NR). Credits for taxes paid in Oklahoma can often be claimed in your home state, preventing double taxation.
- Read this comprehensive guide on Gambling Taxes for Oklahoma.
Other Emerging States
- Ohio: Has commercial and racino establishments (combination of racetracks and casinos). A flat tax approach is evolving, and sports betting is newly legalized.
- Illinois: Chicago area casinos and sports betting. Residents pay a graduated state income tax; nonresidents pay on Illinois-source gambling income.
- Arizona: Tribal casinos across the state, plus legalized sports betting. Residents pay a tiered state income tax, and deductions mirror federal guidelines.
- Virginia: Recently embraced casinos and sports wagering, with new venues opening. Deductions for gambling losses may be restricted at the state level.
- Tennessee: Sports betting is legal (online only), but there is no traditional state income tax on earnings; it does impose a tax on certain investment income (the Hall Income Tax, which has been phased out).
Essential Notes on State Laws and Regulations
Always Verify Current Rules
State legislatures frequently update tax laws, especially around newly legalized forms of gambling like sports betting. Check your state’s official Department of Revenue or Taxation website for the most recent information.
Federal Obligation Remains Constant
Regardless of your state, you must report your gambling winnings to the IRS. Your ability to deduct losses at the federal level depends on itemizing on Schedule A.
Nonresident Tax Filings
If you’re traveling for gambling (poker tours, visiting out-of-state casinos, etc.), you may owe taxes in multiple states. In many cases, you file a nonresident return in the state where you won and then apply for a credit in your home state to avoid double taxation.
Tribal Casinos
Many states have tribal casinos operating under compacts with the state government. From the federal perspective, your gambling winnings are taxed like any other winnings. At the state level, however, there can be unique differences in how those winnings are reported or taxed.
Sports Betting and Online Gambling
With the Supreme Court’s decision (Murphy v. NCAA, 2018) allowing states to legalize sports betting, many states have rapidly changed regulations. A few permit statewide mobile betting; others only allow on-site wagers at licensed casinos or racetracks. Online casinos are still less common but growing.
Deductions for Gambling Losses
State tax rules on deducting losses vary widely:
- Some states mirror federal rules allowing you to offset losses against winnings if you itemize.
- Other states completely disallow gambling loss deductions.
- Still, others have unique forms or instructions to limit or track these deductions separately.
Always Verify Current Rules
State legislatures frequently update tax laws, especially around newly legalized forms of gambling like sports betting. Check your state’s official Department of Revenue or Taxation website for the most recent information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Write Off Gambling Losses?
Yes, but you must itemize your deductions and cannot deduct more than your reported gambling winnings.
What Kinds of Records Should I Keep?
Maintain winning and losing tickets, casino receipts, a detailed gambling diary, plus bank and credit card statements to corroborate your wagers.
When Will I Get a W-2G Form?
You typically receive a W-2G if your winnings exceed specific thresholds, such as $1,200 for slots or $5,000 for poker tournaments. Even if you don’t receive a W-2G, you must still report all gambling income.
Are Bank Statements Proof of Gambling Losses?
They’re helpful but not conclusive. Bank statements only show amounts withdrawn or deposited, not how much you bet or lost. Pair these statements with tickets, logs, or casino-issued records for more substantial evidence.
Where Do I File This on My Tax Forms?
Report all gambling winnings on Form 1040. Deduct your gambling losses (up to the amount of those winnings) on Schedule A (Form 1040) under “Other Itemized Deductions.”
How Do I Deduct Gambling Losses Without Itemizing?
Generally, you cannot. Nonprofessional gamblers must itemize if they want to claim gambling losses. Professional gamblers might have different guidelines but must meet strict IRS criteria to qualify.
What If My Gambling Losses Exceed My Winnings?
You can only deduct losses up to your total reported gambling winnings. Excess losses cannot offset other income or be carried forward.
Do I Need to Report Small Winnings?
Yes. Even a $20 lottery win is technically taxable. The thresholds for issuing a W-2G do not change your obligation to report all gambling income.
Conclusion
Recap of Key Points
- Yes, you can write off gambling losses—but only up to your reported winnings.
- You must choose to itemize your deductions instead of taking the Standard Deduction.
- Proper documentation is crucial. Keep tickets, receipts, and a detailed log of your betting activity.
Why It Matters
Failing to understand these tax rules could lead to overpaying your taxes or underreporting income, which can have serious financial repercussions. For those who gamble frequently, the difference between knowing and not knowing these rules could equate to thousands of dollars saved or lost in taxes.
Importance of Record-Keeping
A strong paper trail is your best protection in the event of an audit. Detailed, accurate records assure the IRS that your deductions are legitimate. It also makes life easier for you each tax season.
Staying Updated on New Tax Law Gambling Losses
As states continue to legalize and expand gambling options, keep an eye on federal and state-level legislation changes or IRS guidelines. Minor tweaks in the law can significantly change how much you pay—or save—on your tax return.
Considering Multiple States
If you gamble in different jurisdictions, remember that local rules may vary. You may need to file additional returns or pay special attention to how each state taxes gambling income and allows loss deductions.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a casual bettor, a weekend poker enthusiast, or an experienced gambler, it pays to understand your hobby’s tax regulations. Maintaining detailed records and being honest about your winnings can significantly reduce your tax burden through allowable deductions. If you remain unsure about how these rules apply to your specific circumstances, consider seeking advice from a tax professional.
By following the guidelines in this article, you’ll be in the best possible position to accurately report your gambling activity—and potentially save yourself money at tax time. Good luck at the tables, slot machines, racetracks, sportsbooks, and happy (responsible) betting!