Tampa Elks 708 — Queen of Hearts FAQ

Starting jackpot: At least $400, set by the Queen of Hearts committee and announced before the first drawing.

Who can play? Members in good standing, plus their spouse or widow(er). You must present a valid membership (or spouse/widow(er)) card to collect winnings.

How much does it cost? No donation is required to play, but the suggested minimum is $2 per chance.

How do I get a ticket? Tickets are available via machine right after each drawing, up until 6:45 PM the night of the next drawing. Write your full name legibly (visiting Elks: include your lodge number), place it unfolded in the raffle drum, and close the drum right away. Folded, bent, or defaced tickets are invalid. Only one name per ticket.

When is the drawing? Every Thursday (unless changed with at least 24 hours' notice). Last ticket at 6:45 PM; the name is drawn at 7:00 PM sharp, per the clubroom clock. Arrive after 7 PM and you're considered not present.

What happens when my name is drawn? You choose an available card from the board.

Queen of Hearts, and you're present: you win 60% of the jackpot.
Queen of Hearts, but you're not present: you win 30% of the jackpot.
Any other card: payout follows the posted stage schedule.

What if my ticket is invalid or I'm not present at the club? If your ticket is missing required info, it's discarded and a new one is drawn. If you're not present and didn't write a valid card choice, the bartender on duty picks for you.

What if I win but can't show a valid membership card? Another name is drawn — unless the Queen of Hearts was the card uncovered, in which case the money reverts to the club.

Taxes and payout

Winners are responsible for all taxes.
Prizes over $600 require a completed W2-G before payment; no exceptions.
Winnings up to $600 are paid in cash the night of the drawing.
Winnings over $600 are paid by check within 72 hours of receiving the proper forms and ID.

What happens to the jackpot if the Queen isn't drawn? It rolls over and grows each week (total pool minus that week's payout) until someone uncovers the Queen of Hearts.

Questions? Ask a Queen of Hearts Committee member or your bartender on duty. (Based on rules revised 10/27/21)