Can I offer contests that involve cash prizes in Missouri? What are the requirements?

Yes, it is possible to offer contests that involve cash prizes in Missouri. However, there are specific requirements that must be met.

According to the Missouri Code of State Regulations, the Missouri Lottery may award prizes other than cash or its equivalent, such as cars, trips, and other merchandise ^[1.2]. However, if you are planning to offer contests that involve cash prizes outside of the state lottery, you may need to consult with legal counsel to ensure that you are in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.

Licensees must sell their tickets in ticket order number within each pack and cannot play or sell games in a manner that provides an advantage ^[2.1]. If the person entitled to a prize is under the age of eighteen years or is a disabled adult person, the payment of the prize shall be made by delivery of a check or draft payable to the order of the minor’s or disabled adult person’s conservator, if any ^[4.2].

It is important to note that fantasy sports contests conducted under Missouri law are exempt from chapter 572 and do not constitute gambling for any purpose. However, a fantasy sports contest operator must apply for and receive a license from the commission prior to offering fantasy sports contests for play in Missouri ^[4.1].

Finally, no prize, nor any portion of a prize, nor any right of any person to a prize awarded shall be assignable, except that a prize may be paid for the use and benefit of the prize winner to the trustee of a revocable living trust established by the prize winner or a personal custodian appointed by the prize winner under the Missouri personal custodian law, chapter 404 ^[4.3].

In summary, if you are planning to offer contests that involve cash prizes in Missouri, you must comply with the specific requirements outlined in the Missouri Code of State Regulations.

Source(s):

• [1.2] Prizes Other than Cash or its Equivalent Authorized
• [2.1] Tickets and Prizes
• [4.1] Fantasy sports contests not gambling — license required, procedure — contests on excursion gambling boats permitted.
• [4.2] Payment of prizes to minors and disabled adults under personal custodian law.
• [4.3] Prizes not assignable except to revokable living trusts or personal custodian, requirements — death of prize winner, how prize is paid.

Jurisdiction

Missouri

• Gaming