Raffles, Sweepstakes, and Giveaways

Raffles, lotteries, and games of chance in which a participant is required to purchase a ticket, make a donation or buy services or products are considered gambling, which is prohibited by the Tennessee Constitution and Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-17-506.

Certain 501(c)(3) organizations may sponsor charitable events featuring games of chance under the Tennessee Charitable Gaming Implementation Law, Tenn. Code Ann. § 3-17-102(8)(B); however, application must be made to hold those and approval must be obtained through the Division of Charitable Solicitations and Gaming Division of the Secretary of State’s Office.

Organizations may sponsor cash or prize giveaways or sweepstakes only if persons wishing to participate are given an opportunity to do so without being required to pay any money, make any donation, or purchase any product or service.