Frequently Asked Questions

Licensing

1. What is the cost of a license to conduct games of chance?

   See the Table of Fees.

2. What is the cost of a license to distribute or manufacture supplies for charitable gaming?

   See the Table of Fees.

3. How long does it take to receive a license?

   As long as all required information is submitted to the Office, the entire process, including training, should not take any longer than four weeks.

4. When will my license expire?

   All licenses expire at midnight, June 30th, of each year, except Electronic Video Gaming and Electronic Video Machine licenses, which are on a calendar year and expire Dec. 31st each year.

   (LAC 42:1709(A))

5. Does my organization have a 501(c) status?

   The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has a toll free number (1-877-829-5500) that you may call to verify an organization's 501(c) status.
   You can also go to the IRS web page. You will need your organization's Federal Tax ID number.

6. How many Special (Super) Bingo's can an organization have in a year?

   No more than two (2) super bingo sessions annually. The total amount of prizes for each session shall not exceed $25,000 in cash or other thing or things of value.

   (LA R.S. 4:710(A))

7. How many sessions can an organization have during a month?

   No more than 20.

   (LA R.S. 4:714(A))

8. Who can act in a managerial capacity?

   Only an active bona fide member of an organization or association can act in a managerial capacity.

   (LA R.S. 4:715(B)(1))

9. Is the bingo caller considered to be a managerial position?

   No.

   (LA R.S. 4:715(B)(1))

10. What are the necessary steps to request changes in the gaming location and/or session dates and times?

    The organization needs to complete and submit the form "Location/Session Schedule" five (5) business days before the requested change. For more information, see Glossary under Modification and Session Change.

11. When does an organization have to notify the Office of a session change?
    1. If an organization is adding a session or changing a location, there is a five (5) business days advance notification required.
    2. If an organization is deleting a session, there is a 10 day notification required.
    (LA R.S. 4:718(E))

12. How does an organization make changes in its officers and/or members list?

    The organization must submit an "Organization Official(s) Information Sheet" and/or an "Organization Member(s) Assisting in Gaming Information Sheet".
    The Office requires a 10 day notification to avoid possible penalities.
    You may request a list of the current officers and/or members. The member list is especially helpful at renewal time.

13. What is the cost for a change and/or modification to a license?

    See the Fee Table.

    (LAC 42:1703(B)(5))

14. What information must an organization display during the bingo session?
    1. The organization's current license must be displayed during all games.
    (LA R.S. 4:712) and (LA R.S. 4:714(C))
    2. The owner of the premises must display the Gamblers Anonymous toll-free phone number.
    (LRS 4:738)
    3. If the hall or organization is participating in a Progressive Bingo, the current jackpot must be displayed.
    (LAC 42:1789(K)(3))

15. Can an employee of a Commercial Lessor help the organization in conducting games of chance?

    No commercial lessor, employee, or agent thereof, shall take part in or assist with the holding, operating, or conducting of a game of chance.

    (LA R.S. 4:715(a)(3))