How Much Tax on Thai lottery winnings do you pay? Things you should know
When the Lottery Results Are Out…
Many rush to check their tickets with excitement. Winning — whether a large or small prize — can be life-changing. But one thing often overlooked is the tax on Thai lottery winnings. Understanding the tax process is essential before claiming your prize to avoid any surprises or missing out on your full payout.
This article explains everything you need to know after winning (especially the 1st prize), how much tax will be deducted, and how to prepare.
Is Lottery Winnings Considered Income?
Under Thai tax law, income from government lotteries or other chance-based prizes is classified as “Type 8 Income”, or unearned income. It’s considered taxable. Fortunately, taxes are withheld at source, so you don’t need to declare this prize again in your annual tax filing — unless you earn other taxable prizes.
How Much Tax Will Be Deducted?
The tax depends on the type of lottery:
-
Government Lottery (GLO): 0.5% withheld at source
-
Government Savings Bank (GSB) / BAAC Lottery Bonds: 1% withheld
Example:
If you win 6,000,000 THB from the 1st prize in the GLO lottery, 0.5% (30,000 THB) is withheld.
You’ll receive: 5,970,000 THB
If it were a GSB or BAAC prize, 1% (60,000 THB) would be deducted instead.
Lottery Prize Tax Table (GLO Only – 0.5% Rate)
|
Prize Type |
Prize Value (THB) |
Tax Deducted (0.5%) |
Net Amount Received (THB) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
1st Prize |
6,000,000 |
30,000 |
5,970,000 |
|
Adjacent to 1st Prize |
100,000 |
500 |
99,500 |
|
2nd Prize |
200,000 |
1,000 |
199,000 |
|
3rd Prize |
80,000 |
400 |
79,600 |
|
4th Prize |
40,000 |
200 |
39,800 |
|
5th Prize |
20,000 |
100 |
19,900 |
|
3-digit Front/Back |
4,000 |
20 |
3,980 |
|
2-digit Back |
2,000 |
10 |
1,990 |
Note: Savings lotteries and BAAC tickets have a 1% deduction instead of 0.5%.
Where to Claim Your Prize?
After confirming your win, here are your options for claiming your money safely and conveniently:
1. Government Lottery Office (Nonthaburi) https://www.glo.or.th
-
Hours: Mon–Fri, 08:30–15:00 (closed on public holidays)
-
Best for: Large prizes (e.g. 1st prize)
-
Fee: No additional fees besides tax
2. Participating Banks
-
Krung Thai Bank, BAAC, GSB (check for eligible branches)
-
Fee: 1–2% service charge
-
Best for: Convenience and shorter travel
-
Bring: National ID and the original winning ticket
3. Lottery Dealers / Retail Outlets
-
Found in markets or places with “รับขึ้นรางวัล” (Prize Claim Service) signs
-
Fee: Higher percentage cut than banks
-
Caution: Make sure the shop is reputable
Tip: Always sign the back of your winning ticket, take photos for backup, and bring your original ID when claiming. Handle your ticket carefully to avoid scams or rejection.
Do You Need to Report Lottery Winnings on Your Tax Return?
No, because tax is already withheld at source.
Exception: If you receive other large prizes like from competitions or gifts, those may need to be declared.
Smart Ways to Use Lottery Winnings
Winning the lottery can be the start of a new financial journey. Here are some wise uses:
-
Donate a portion to charity, hospitals, temples, or community projects
-
Split the money into spending, saving, and emergency funds
-
Avoid spending it all at once — good fortune may not come every draw
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re checking past results or regularly playing the lottery, knowing your tax rights ensures you receive your full entitlement safely. The amount you actually get depends on how well you prepare.
Winning may be about luck — but understanding the tax rules and claim process ensures you’re fully ready when fortune strikes.
If you’ve just won, congratulations!
And don’t forget to double-check your ticket on our website or Apps on GooglePlayStore and AppStore before heading out to claim
