Learn about the tax treatment of game shows and lottery winnings in India, and get tips on how to handle these windfalls in a tax-efficient way. Find out about the tax rules that apply and how to minimize your tax liability in this blog.

In India, the tax treatment of game shows and lottery winnings is similar to that in the United States. Any cash prizes won on a game show or through the lottery are considered taxable income and must be reported on your tax return.

Under Indian tax laws, game shows and lottery winnings are taxed as “other sources” of income. This means that they are subject to the same tax rates as other types of income, such as salary or business income. The tax rate applied to game shows and lottery winnings will depend on your total income for the year and your tax filing status.

It is worth noting that game show and lottery winnings may be subject to a different tax treatment if they are considered to be “notional income.” This can occur if the prize is in the form of a non-cash item, such as a car or a vacation. In this case, the fair market value of the prize must be reported as income on your income tax return.

In addition to state income tax, game shows, and lottery winnings may also be subject to state taxes in India. The applicable tax rate will depend on the state in which you reside.

Tax On Winning Of Game Shows & Lottery

Tax on winning of game shows is outlined in Section 56(2)(ib) of the Income Tax Act of 1961 as “income from other sources”. Following the 2000 debut of KBC, the Finance Act of 2001 changed the definition of games for tax purposes to include television and electronic (online) gaming formats. The following winnings are subject to a TDS of 30% under Section 194B:

• Lotteries and raffles
• Races
• Games of chance, betting, or gambling
• Puzzles crossword
• TV or electronic contests for games

On top of this 30% tax, there is a 2% education cess and a 1% secondary and higher education cess. The overall tax rate on earnings from game shows is now 30.9%. If the winning amount exceeds ₹10 lakhs, there is also a 10% additional surcharge that must be paid. The person or organization in charge of disbursing the prize money to the winner must subtract this TDS.

So, how can you handle the game show and lottery winnings in India in a tax-efficient manner? 

Tips to Handle the Winning Amount

Here are a few tips:

• Set aside money to pay taxes: If you win a large sum of money on a game show or in the lottery, it is a good idea to set aside some of the winnings to cover the taxes that will be due. This will help ensure that you have the funds available to pay the taxes when they are due.
• Consider consulting with a financial advisor: A financial advisor can help you develop a tax strategy that takes into account your game show and lottery winnings, as well as your other sources of income. They can help you make informed decisions about how to invest your winnings and how to minimize your tax liability.
• Claim deductions and exemptions: There are various deductions and exemptions available under Indian tax laws that can help reduce your tax liability. For example, you may be able to claim a deduction for any expenses incurred in connection with your game show or lottery winnings, such as travel costs or legal fees. You should consult with a tax professional to determine which deductions and exemptions you may be eligible to claim.
• Consider donating some of your winnings to charity: Donating a portion of your game show or lottery winnings to charity can not only help those in need, but it can also lower your tax bill. Charitable donations are tax-deductible in India, which means that you can claim a tax deduction for the amount that you donate.

Points to Remember

In relation to TDS on prize money, keep in mind the following:

• Everyone must pay a tax of 30.9%, regardless of their regular income, winnings, age, or physical condition.
• The TDS of 30.9% is a flat tax on the prize money; it won’t be added to your income and won’t let you take advantage of your tax bracket.
• Your normal income will be taxed in accordance with your income tax rate bracket even though the prize money will be treated separately from your other income.
• Even if you invest the prize money in one of the savings instruments listed under Sections 80C to 80U, you are not eligible for any tax deductions or exemptions when it comes to game show rewards.
• Before receiving the prize, you must pay the government the TDS of 30.9% if your winnings come in the form of a car, jewellery, apartment, or any other movable or immovable item. For instance, before you can take home a car you won on a game show valued ₹8 lakhs, you must pay ₹2,47,200. You might have to give up the reward if you are unable to pay the required sum.
• The only exception to the taxation of game show winnings is that you are not required to pay tax on any sums donated, in whole or in part, to the government or the organisation running the lottery or game show.

Conclusion

In summary, game shows and lottery winnings are subject to tax in India. The applicable tax rate will depend on your total income for the year and your tax filing status. It is important to properly report your game show and lottery winnings on your tax return and to set aside funds to pay the taxes that will be due. Consulting with a financial advisor and claiming deductions and exemptions can also help minimize your tax liability. Donating a portion of your winnings to charity can not only help those in need, but it can also lower your tax bill.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Did you know?

The first known lottery was held in ancient China to fund the construction of the Great Wall.

Read more 

• Importance of Income Tax Returns Filing
• Process of Filing an ITR in India