Alberta Lottery & Raffle Licence: How to Apply (2026 Guide)

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Before we get into the details, we just want to say that, yes you can use Zeffy's 100% free event management software for nonprofits (we don't even charge transaction fees) to sell tickets online in Alberta. Zeffy is trusted by 100,000+ nonprofits and has helped raise $2B+ for causes across North America.

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Table of Contents

• 1. Alberta Lottery Licence vs. Raffle Licence: What's the Difference?

• 2. Types of Raffles in Alberta

• 3. What is a lottery?

• 4. Do you need a raffle license in Alberta?

• 5. Can nonprofits apply for a raffle license in Alberta?

• 6. To be eligible for a raffle license in Alberta, your nonprofit needs to:

• 7. How to apply to be eligible to host a raffle in Alberta

• 8. Applying for Your Raffle Licence

• 9. Does it cost anything to apply for a raffle license in Alberta?

• 10. Alberta Raffle Licence Fee Comparison

• 11. How long will it take to get your nonprofit's raffle license?

• 12. Can you sell raffle tickets online in Alberta using Zeffy's ticketing forms?

• 13. What needs to be included on a raffle ticket in Alberta?

• 14. Common Reasons AGLC Applications Get Rejected or Delayed

• 15. A few more important details about hosting a raffle in Alberta

• 16. After your nonprofit's raffle has taken place

• 17. Frequently Asked Questions

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Alberta Lottery Licence vs. Raffle Licence: What's the Difference?

When Albertans search for an "Alberta lottery licence," they're often looking for very different things. The term "lottery" is actually an umbrella category under Alberta's Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Act — and the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) regulates several distinct licence types that fall under it. Knowing which licence applies to your organization's fundraiser is the critical first step before you fill out a single form.

Here's a plain-language breakdown of every charitable gaming licence type AGLC issues, who needs it, and where to apply.

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Alberta Charitable Gaming Licence Types at a Glance

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Note: Lottery terminals are operated exclusively by AGLC
— authorized retailers and are not available to charities as a fundraising tool. If you've landed here looking for retailer terminal information, visit the [AGLC Lottery Retailer page](https://aglc.ca/gambling/lottery) directly.

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Which Licence Do Most Alberta Nonprofits Need?

For the vast majority of charitable organizations running a fundraiser — whether it's a ticket draw at a gala, an online 50/50, or a prize raffle — a raffle licence is the correct licence type. Raffle licences are the most accessible entry point into charitable gaming in Alberta, with a two-tier structure based on prize value:

• Under $10,000 in prizes: A simplified Class A licence application

• $10,000 or more in prizes: A Class B licence with additional documentation requirements and fees up to $1,000

Bingo and pull ticket licences involve more complex venue and scheduling requirements through licensed facilities. Casino event licences require coordination with one of AGLC's designated charitable casino venues and are typically reserved for larger organizations with established track records.

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Why This Distinction Matters Before You Apply

Applying for the wrong licence type — or skipping the licensing step entirely — can result in your event being shut down and your organization facing fines or future eligibility restrictions. AGLC takes unlicensed gaming seriously, regardless of how small the fundraiser seems.

If your organization is planning a draw, door prize event, or ticket-based fundraiser of any size, a raffle licence is almost certainly what you need. The rest of this guide walks you through exactly how to obtain one in Alberta — from confirming your eligibility to submitting your application to the AGLC and running a compliant event.

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Types of Raffles in Alberta

Not all raffles are the same under AGLC rules. The format of your raffle affects what you disclose on your licence application, how you structure your tickets, and how draws must be conducted. Before you apply, it's worth knowing which raffle type fits your fundraiser.

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Cash or Merchandise Raffles

This is the most straightforward raffle format. Participants buy tickets for a chance to win a predetermined cash prize or a specific item — a car, electronics, a vacation package, or similar. The prize is fixed before tickets go on sale, and its value must be disclosed on the ticket and in your licence application.

A few things to keep in mind: if the prize is merchandise, you must state its retail value. If you're offering a cash alternative to a merchandise prize, that must also appear on the ticket. The prize can't change after your licence is issued.

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50/50 Draws

A 50/50 draw splits the ticket revenue pool between the winner and your organization. The winner takes half of the total money collected; your nonprofit keeps the other half. Because the prize amount isn't fixed at the start — it grows as more tickets are sold — 50/50 draws have specific disclosure requirements. Your tickets and promotional materials must clearly explain the prize calculation formula rather than stating a prize amount.

50/50 draws are extremely popular for sports events, galas, and community fundraisers. They're eligible for online ticket sales in Alberta for raffles with a total ticket value under $100,000, making them a strong fit for Zeffy's online raffle tools.

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Progressive Raffles

A progressive raffle carries an unclaimed prize forward from one draw to the next, building in value over time. If no ticket wins the jackpot in a given draw, the prize accumulates until it's claimed. These are common in ongoing fundraising programs where an organization runs multiple draws over weeks or months.

Progressive raffles require careful licence planning because each draw cycle must be covered. Your application needs to account for the full structure — number of draws, progression rules, and how the final prize will be paid out if the raffle ends without a winner claiming the jackpot.

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Sports Drafts

A sports draft raffle assigns participants to sports teams or players through a random draw. Participants whose assigned team or player performs best over a season or tournament win a prize. These are popular for hockey, football, and golf pools run as fundraisers.

Sports drafts fall under AGLC's raffle licensing framework because the prize outcome is tied to chance (the initial assignment of teams or players). If your organization runs one of these, you'll need a raffle licence regardless of how small the entry fee is. The format details — number of participants, prize structure, sport, and season — all need to be included in your licence application.

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Which Raffle Format Is Right for Your Event?

The format you choose depends on your fundraising goal, your audience, and your organization's capacity to manage prize payouts. Cash and merchandise raffles are the simplest to administer. 50/50 draws tend to generate excitement because the prize grows in real time. Progressive raffles are best for organizations with ongoing supporter engagement. Sports drafts work well for organizations with a strong connection to a sports community.

Whatever format you choose, identify it clearly on your AGLC licence application — the AGLC raffle FAQ has additional details on each type's specific requirements.

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What is a lottery?

Well, in classic Canadian style, the official definition varies ever so slightly from province to province. In Alberta, raffles are regulated by Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) and AGLC defines a raffle as:

A raffle is a lottery scheme where ticket purchasers pay for a chance to win a prize. - AGLC

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Do you need a raffle license in Alberta?

When it comes to applying for a raffle license, Alberta is unique in that the AGLC has split the process into two steps:

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Step 1:

Your nonprofit needs to apply to be eligible to host a raffle. To do this, you need to submit one of two forms: 1) Eligibility for Raffle License - $20,000 and Less or 2) the Eligibility for Gaming License - $20,000 or more.

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Step 2:

Once the AGLC has granted their approval, your nonprofit can then apply for a raffle license.

Good to know

You do not need a license for AGLC approval for:

• Silent auctions

• Live auctions

• Bottle drives

• Receiving donations

• Free giveaway contests

• Fundraising sales (almonds, popcorn, meats, etc.)

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Can nonprofits apply for a raffle license in Alberta?

Alberta based non-profit, charitable, or religious groups can apply for a raffle license! All you have to do is:

• Have a charitable purpose:

• Relief of poverty.

• Advancement of education.

• Advancement of religion.

• Other purposes beneficial to the community.

• Submit an Eligibility for Gaming License application ( less than $20,000 or more than $20,000) to AGLC.

• Ensure the money earned supports your nonprofit organization's programs.

Good to know

An organization does not need to be registered as a charity with Canada Revenue Agency to be considered a charitable organization in Alberta.

Download our helpful checklist here.

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To be eligible for a raffle license in Alberta, your nonprofit needs to:

• Have a volunteer base that represents the community at large.

• Have volunteers from Alberta who create, control and deliver your nonprofit's charitable programs.

• Have a volunteer based board of directors or executive that has been democratically elected from your volunteer base. (A maximum of 25% of your nonprofit's executive may be appointed and no more than 25% of your executive members can live outside Alberta.)

• Have charitable programs that are available to all members of the public who wish to take part.

• Have a not‐for‐profit objective and bylaws that follow AGLC policy.

• Be incorporated. (If you are applying for an Eligibility for Gaming License for a raffle with a total ticket value more than $20,000.)

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How to apply to be eligible to host a raffle in Alberta:

In Alberta, the online gaming rules are different depending on the total ticket value. The total ticket value is the number of tickets multiplied by the price of each ticket.

To calculate the total ticket value, multiply the price(s) of the ticket(s) by the number of tickets for sale:

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For raffles in Alberta with a total ticket value of $20,000 or less:

To apply for a raffle license in Alberta your nonprofit needs to fill out the Eligibility for Raffle License (Total Ticket Value $20,000 and Less Only) and an Internet Account Request Form (included in the application) to get your AGLC ID Number.

You can return completed forms to AGLC at gaming.licensing@aglc.ca or by fax: 780-447-8911.

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For raffles in Alberta with a total ticket value of more than $20,000:

Complete the Eligibility for Gaming License application and return it to gaming.licensing@aglc.ca or fax it to: 780-447-8911.

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What you'll need to apply to be eligible to host a raffle in Alberta:

• A copy of your nonprofit's meeting minutes authorizing the application.

• A copy of your Incorporation Certificate.

• Your nonprofit organization's operating bylaws.

• A current List of board members or elected executives, including addresses and telephone numbers.

• A current membership list, including addresses and telephone numbers.

• Last year's financial statements.

• The budget for the current year or proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year.

• The land title certificate or lease/rental agreement, if you own or rent a facility for your programs.

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Applying for Your Raffle Licence

For raffles in Alberta with a total ticket value of $20,000 or less:

You can apply for a raffle license online through an AGLC web account. Before you apply, make sure you know:

• The format of the raffle: cash or merchandise; 50/50; progressive, etc. ( See FAQ for additional details.)

• The number of tickets for sale.

• The price per ticket.

• Prize description(s) and retail value of each prize.

• Date and location of the draw(s).

• All expenses, such as ticket printing, advertising etc.

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For raffles in Alberta with a total ticket value of more than $20,000:

If your total ticket value will be more than $20,000, your nonprofit should use the Raffle License Application—More than $20,000 form and, if you're planning on selling raffle tickets online using Zeffy's 100% free ticketing platform, you will also need to fill out the Raffle License Application—More than $20,000—Addendum—Electronic Raffles form.

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Does it cost anything to apply for a raffle license in Alberta?

For raffles in Alberta with a total ticket values of $20,000 or less:

There are no license fees to apply to be eligible to host a raffle in Alberta. However, Alberta registry agents will charge a service fee to issue the license.

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For raffles in Alberta with a total ticket value of more than $20,000:

If your raffle's total ticket value is more than $20,000, the following fees apply:

• A $150 fee if your raffle's total ticket value is more than $20,000 and less than $100,000.

• A $500 fee if your raffle's total ticket value is more than $100,000 and less than $1,000,000.

• A $1,000 fee if your raffle's total ticket value is $1,000,000 or more.

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Alberta Raffle Licence Fee Comparison

AGLC's fee structure is simple once you see it in one place. Here's everything consolidated so you can plan your fundraiser budget without hunting through multiple pages.

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A few things worth knowing before you budget:

Registry agent fees aren't set by AGLC. Individual Alberta registry agents determine their own service fees for issuing the licence. It's worth calling your local registry agent ahead of time to confirm their current rate. Fees typically range from a few dollars to a modest flat fee depending on the agent.

The eligibility step is always free. Whether you're applying under the $20,000 threshold or above it, there's no charge to submit your eligibility application. The AGLC licence fee only applies once you've been approved and are applying for the actual raffle licence (for raffles over $20,000 in total ticket value).

Your biggest cost is often your own time. Gathering documents, coordinating board sign-off, and waiting for processing takes more resources than the fees themselves for most small organizations. Building in at least three to four weeks before your event gives you a buffer if AGLC needs additional information from you.

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How long will it take to get your nonprofit's raffle license?

A complete application takes the AGLC around two weeks to review and, if there is any missing information, they will contact you by letter, email or phone call to let you know.

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Can you sell raffle tickets online in Alberta using Zeffy's ticketing forms?

You can use online payment methods, such as Zeffy's ticketing forms and Zeffy's raffles and lotteries software to help your nonprofit:

• Accept ticket orders and payments.

• Distribute tickets. (Via email, for example.)

• Use a random number generator to select the prize winner(s).

• Distribute prizes.

And, as always, there are just a few things to keep in mind:

• All electronic raffle system software must be certified by an accredited testing facility.

• Compliant with the AGLC Electronic Raffle System Document.

• Approved by AGLC.

• The online medium (e.g. website) must be able to confirm that the ticket purchaser is 18 years or older and present in Alberta at the time of purchase.

Good to know

We suggest you include that you plan to sell and distribute your raffle tickets online using Zeffy platform when applying for your gaming license. For more info. take a look at the Electronic Raffle Standards Document (PDF).

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What needs to be included on a raffle ticket in Alberta?

For more details, take a look at the Raffle Terms & Conditions, section 2.2. But, your raffle tickets will need to include:

• A raffle ticket number that has been generated consecutively as tickets are sold.

• Price categories for discounted tickets (those sold in multiples) must be easily distinguished (e.g., different series numbers).

• Any additional information (such as: advertising, logos, coupons, or barcodes) must not impact or obscure the required information.

• Electronic raffle tickets and ticket stubs must include the issue date and time in 24-hour format showing hours and minutes. Electronic bearer tickets and ticket stubs must also include the raffle sales unit (RSU) identifier from which the ticket was generated.

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Tickets must be in two parts and contain the following information:

Ticket (given to the ticket purchaser):

• Ticket number.

• Ticket price.

• Raffle license number.

• Name of licensed charitable organization.

• Total number of tickets available for sale.

• Date and exact location of draw(s).

• Description and value of prize(s).

• Prize restrictions (if applicable).

• Cash alternatives (if applicable).

• Notice that the ticket purchaser must be at least 18 years of age.

Ticket stub (kept by your nonprofit organization):

• Ticket number.

• Raffle license number.

• Name and contact information of ticket purchaser.

Common Reasons AGLC Applications Get Rejected or Delayed

Getting your application right the first time saves you weeks. AGLC will contact you if information is missing, but that back-and-forth adds time you can't always afford when you've got an event on the calendar. Here are the most common reasons applications stall — and what you can do about each one.

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Missing or Outdated Supporting Documents

The eligibility application requires a current board member list, current membership list, and recent financial statements. "Current" means recent — AGLC reviewers flag lists that appear to be from a prior year or that are missing contact details like addresses and phone numbers. Make sure every document you submit reflects your organization's actual current state.

Your financial statements need to cover the most recent completed fiscal year. If your fiscal year ended recently and statements aren't finalized yet, contact AGLC before submitting to ask how to proceed. Submitting a half-completed document just to meet a self-imposed deadline is one of the most common ways applications get delayed.

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Bylaws That Don't Meet AGLC Policy Requirements

AGLC reviewers check that your bylaws reflect a democratically elected, volunteer-based structure. If your bylaws haven't been updated since incorporation — or if they were copied from a template without adjustment — they may not align with current AGLC requirements. Common issues include unclear election processes, no maximum percentage stated for appointed executives, or language that allows board members outside Alberta to exceed the 25% threshold.

Review the AGLC Charitable Gaming Policy Handbook before you submit. If your bylaws need updating, do it at a properly documented board meeting and include those updated meeting minutes with your application.

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Meeting Minutes That Don't Specifically Authorize the Application

Your application requires board meeting minutes that authorize your organization to apply for gaming eligibility. Generic minutes that say "board approved fundraising activities" aren't sufficient. The minutes should specifically reference the decision to apply for a raffle licence with AGLC, name the authorized signing officer, and include the date of the meeting.

This is an easy fix — just make sure the agenda item is specific before your next board meeting, and get minutes signed and dated promptly.

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Applying for the Wrong Ticket Value Tier

Underestimating your total ticket value is a common error, especially for organizations selling ticket bundles or multiple price categories. If you apply under the $20,000 threshold but your actual total ticket value — calculated as number of tickets multiplied by price per ticket — exceeds that, you'll need to restart with the correct form.

Before you apply, calculate your total ticket value conservatively. Include every ticket at every price point. If you're close to the $20,000 threshold, apply for the higher tier. It's better to have a higher licence than to run out of licence room mid-raffle.

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Not Disclosing Online Ticket Sales

If you plan to sell tickets online — including through Zeffy — and you don't disclose this on your application, your licence won't cover online sales. For raffles over $20,000, you need to submit the Electronic Raffles Addendum alongside your main application. For raffles under $20,000, disclose your intent to use an online platform when you submit.

AGLC takes this seriously because online raffle software must meet specific certification standards. Disclosing it upfront is straightforward; getting caught selling online without proper disclosure is not.

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Errors in Prize Descriptions or Values

Your licence application needs accurate prize descriptions and retail values. Vague entries like "assorted prizes" or incorrect dollar amounts for merchandise prizes are flagged during review. If you're offering a prize from a donor, get confirmation of its current retail value in writing before you submit.

For 50/50 draws, don't list a specific prize dollar amount — list the formula instead (50% of total ticket sales). Listing a fixed number for a variable prize is a common mistake that can cause your application to be returned for correction.

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A few more important details about hosting a raffle in Alberta:

• Each group that plans to hold a raffle must establish raffle rules for each license. Raffle rules must be provided when asked. For guidance, refer to Section E of the Raffle Terms & Conditions.

• Each group must have ticket and financial controls for all raffle licenses. The Raffle Ticket Inventory Control Procedure & Inventory Control Worksheet may be used.

• Each raffle license for a raffle with a total ticket value of $20,000 or more require their own bank account. Raffles with a total ticket value of $20,000 or less can use the general bank account of your nonprofit organization. (But we recommend opening a raffle-specific bank account regardless.)

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After your nonprofit's raffle has taken place.

In Alberta, financial reporting is required for every gaming license and all records must be kept for two (2) years after your license expires.

Make sure to track your expenses, ticket sales, prizes, etc. and keep all of your receipts and invoices. You can use the Raffle Ticket Inventory Control Procedure & Inventory Control Worksheet to help.

For raffles with a total ticket value of $20,000 or more, the AGLC sends financial reports to a specific contact for all gaming licenses and/or bank accounts, so make sure your contact information is accurate.

For raffles with a total ticket value of $20,000 or less, the financial reporting requirements are located on the raffle license and must be returned to AGLC within 60 days of the final draw date.

Good to know

All records must be kept for two years after the license expires and completed financial reports and supporting documentation must be returned to AGLC within 60 days.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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