Frequently Asked Questions
I recently won some money in Las Vegas on the weekend. Can I recover the taxes withheld now?
You have to wait until after December 31 to start the US tax recovery process. Gambling winnings and losses are reported annually.
How do I prove my gambling losses?
Canadians need to be able to substantiate their gambling losses, as the amount of their refund depends on the amount of gambling losses incurred in the United States throughout the calendar year. The IRS will accept a diary of your winnings and losses. Your diary should contain the following information:
- The date and type of gambling activity
- The location of the gambling establishment
- The names of other persons present with you at the gambling establishment
- The amount(s) you won or lost
Also, keep any wagering tickets, Win/Loss tax statements, receipts from cashing cheques at the casino or withdrawing money from an ATM machine in or near the casino.
Poker players should keep " Buy in receipts" for tournaments and a record of money won and lost in cash games in the USA for the year of taxable wins.
You cannot use losses from the following games to offset your winnings as they are exempt from tax: baccarat, blackjack, craps, roulette and Big-6 wheel. If the casino deducted tax on an exempt game you are entitled to a complete refund without reference to losses.
How long does the process take?
If you do not have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number it takes 12 to 18 weeks. If you already have a number it usually takes 8 weeks.
Why are your fees so much less then your competition?
We charge a flat fee based on the amount of time we estimate the service requires. If you have a large refund, competitors that charge a percentage of your refund can charge hundreds or even thousands of dollars more than we do.
We feel that our fees are fair and make good business sense in the long run. After all, if you feel you have been treated fairly you are more likely to recommend our service.
How many years back can your recover taxes from?
Up until June 15 you can file and recover the casino tax withheld for the current tax year and the prior 3 years. After June 15 you can only recover the current tax year and the prior 2 years.
Do you recover taxes from other gambling activities basides casinos
Yes any U.S.A. gambling activity that involves wagers qualifies. Large lottery winners, however, are not likely to have sufficient wagering losses for a meaningful tax recovery.
