Is organizing an office pool illegal if money is involved?

Answer 1

The type of pool you are talking about is organized in every office nation wide. Most times they are for short money, and it is mostly for fun. Technicaly it is against the law, but I don't remember anyone being arrested for running an office pool. Not much to worry about here.

Answer 2

It certainly depends upon the state. I know that there are exceptions to the gaming laws in my state IF the organizer takes no money in fees for organizing the pool. Then, as others have said, small pool gaming is usually just overlooked and accepted by authorities (i.e. it may technically be illegal, but it's been "decriminalized").

Answer 3

As long as it's not for profit, there should be no problem.
In other words if 10 people put in $10 and the draw is for $100 (or $20 goes to a staff fund for parties, or even given to a charity etc) there should be no problem.
I would check with your HR department to make sure there is no company policy against it.

Also it is illegal to raffle a paycheck. Everyone pays $10, you collect $1500 and the winner gets $500 (or whatever the amount of the cheque is)
Remember the key is NO Profit gambling.

Answer 4

It depends on the laws of your state. Most states it is illegal (Gambling) but is overlooked by authorities. (We even had a pool for the super bowl in the police department I used to work at.)

Answer 5

Yes, even where gambling is legal, you must be licensed. However, there is a very remote chance that you would be charged.

Answer 6

i would think that if gambling is legal in your state, then it would be ok. if not, keep it on the down-low. ; )

Answer 7

I think so!