Last updated:
-by Alexia Zepeda | TaxZerone
Form W-2G due dates at a Glance
- Casinos, lotteries, racetracks, and other entities that pay qualifying gambling winnings are required to file Form W-2G.
- Winner copies must be furnished by January 31, paper filing with the IRS must be completed by February 28, and electronic filing must be submitted by March 31.
- Penalties: IRS penalties ranging from $60 to $680 per return may be imposed for late, incorrect, or missing Form W-2G filings, depending on the timing and circumstances of the failure.
What is Form W-2G?
Form W-2G, is used to report gambling winnings and any federal income tax withheld on those winnings. It must be filed by casinos, racetracks, lotteries, or any other entities that award qualifying gambling prizes
This form helps the IRS and winners accurately track and report gambling income. Winners must include the information from Form W-2G when filing their federal tax returns.
Important Deadline for filing Form W-2G
| Filing type | Deadlines |
|---|---|
| Sending winner’s copy | February 2, 2026 |
| Paper filing | March 2, 2026 |
| IRS e-filing | March 31, 2026 |
Note: If any deadline falls on a weekend or federal holiday, it is extended to the next business day.
Penalties
| Scenario | Penalty per return | Penalty per year |
|---|---|---|
| Failure to file on time | $60 | $683,000 ($239,000 for small business) |
| after 30 days before August 1 | $130 | $2,049,000 ($683,000 for small business) |
| after August 1 or not filed | $340 | $4,098,500 ($1,366,000 for small business) |
| Intentional Disregard | $680 | No limit |
Filing Form W-2G with TaxZerone
Step 1: Login to your TaxZerone Account
Step 2: Choose Form W-2G and the Tax year including details of payers and winner’s name, address and TIN along with the Gambling Winnings information
Step 3: Submit the form to the IRS and issue the winner’s copy via ZeroneVault or send it to the mail.