Running a 50/50 draw, prize raffle, or some other fundraising lottery in Ne...
Running a 50/50 draw, prize raffle, or some other fundraising lottery in Alberta? You need to play by the rules — or risk it all getting shut down.
To run an online raffle in Alberta, you have 2 choices:
1️⃣ If you're running a raffle under $20,000 in Alberta, apply online at least 5 business days before the first day of ticket sales.
2️⃣ If you're running a raffle over $20,000 in Alberta, send in the application at least 8 weeks before the first day of ticket sales.
But hey, we suggest you get ahead of the game and apply for your lottery license well before you need it. Rafflebox can't bend time or licensing rules, and we can't launch a raffle without the proper paperwork.
This guide cuts through the noise and lays out everything you need to do to apply for a lottery license in Alberta.
What’s considered a charitable lottery?
If your fundraiser has these ingredients, it’s a lottery, and you’re going to need approval:
✅ A chance to win. Someone’s got to lose.
✅ An entry fee. If they’re paying to play, it counts.
✅ A prize. Cash, cars, or something else people actually want.
Think 50/50 draw, prize raffle, home lottery — you get the idea.
Running a charitable lottery in Alberta?
Provincial laws say you're going to need a license.
It's easy enough to apply, but a little preparation goes a long way with the Alberta Gaming, Liquor, and Cannabis (AGLC). Before applying for a charitable lottery license, make sure:
➡️ You're eligible for the license (19+ and a registered charity or non-profit organization).
➡️ You've finalized your raffle rules, ticket packages, and prize descriptions (you'll need these details for your application).
How to apply for a charitable lottery license in Alberta (under $20,000):
1️⃣ If you're running a raffle over $20,000 in Alberta, first connect with Rafflebox to secure your online raffle agreement and sample ticket (you'll need these for your application).
2️⃣ Read the full instructions before applying (yeah, we know you were going to jump ahead).
3️⃣ Fill out the Eligibility for Raffle License (Total Ticket Value $20,000 and Less Only) application, which includes an Internet Account Request Form to get your AGLC ID Number.
4️⃣ Read the step by step instructions to creating a raffle license online.
5️⃣ Provide the full details — name of your organization, draw dates, and confirm use of electronic technology (Rafflebox).
6️⃣ You'll need the proof of charitable status, the number of tickets for sale, the price per ticket, prize descriptions and retail value of each prize, and the location of the draw(s), and all expenses such as ticket printing or advertising.
How to apply for a charitable lottery license in Alberta (over $20,000):
🚨 If your group has not had a raffle license before, you must complete an Eligibility for Gaming License application and return it to gaming.licensing@aglc.ca or Fax: 780-447-8911.
1️⃣ Read the full instructions before applying (yeah, we know you were going to jump ahead).
2️⃣ Apply online (find the step by step guide).
3️⃣ Provide the full details — name of your organization, draw dates, and confirm use of electronic technology (Rafflebox).
4️⃣ You'll need the proof of charitable status, the number of tickets for sale, the price per ticket, prize descriptions and retail value of each prize, the location of the draw(s), and all expenses such as ticket printing or advertising.
How much does a lottery license cost?
For raffles under $20,000, the AGLC does not charge a license fee for this type of raffle.
For raffles over $20,000, the AGLC charges a fee for a raffle with a total ticket value:
➡️ More than $20,000, but less than $100,000 is $150.
➡️ Equal to or more than $100,000, but less than 1,000,000 is $750.
➡️ Equal or more than $1,000,000 is $1,500.
Along with the application, the group must include a cheque or money order to AGLC for license fees.
Wrapping up your raffle fundraiser in Alberta:
First, pick your winner in the Rafflebox Dashboard.
Then, for raffles under $20,000, a financial report is included with your license. The AGLC does not require you to fill out a yearly financial report for each type of gaming license under $20,000.
For raffles over $20,000, the AGLC requires all groups to complete a yearly financial report for reach type of gaming license. The AGLC mails or emails the yearly financial report to your treasurer once a year, and your report is due within 60 days of the date the AGLC mails or emails it.
On the report, you will record how your group used gaming proceeds. You'll need:
1️⃣ Lottery license number.
2️⃣ Revenue and expenditure numbers.
3️⃣ Copy of bank statements, cancelled cheques, invoices and receipts.
Pro tips before applying for your lottery license in Alberta:
⭐ If you're running a raffle over $20,000 in Alberta, before applying, connect with Rafflebox to secure your online raffle agreement and sample ticket.
⭐ Apply at least 5 business days before you start selling tickets for a raffle under $20,000, and at least 8 weeks before you start selling tickets for a raffle over $20,000. Give yourself time incase you need to reapply or provide more information.
⭐ Use the reports in the Rafflebox Dashboard to help you complete the financial report.
Stick to the rules, file your paperwork, and run a raffle that’s legit. Got questions? We're here to answer them.
Let’s make your fundraiser a success without breaking a sweat — or the law.
