TaxVigDo I need to pay estimated tax on betting winnings?
You may. Form 1040-ES says you generally need to pay estimated tax if you expect to owe at least $1,000 after withholding and refundable credits, and your withholding will be less than the smaller of 90% of this year's tax or 100% of last year's tax (2026 Form 1040-ES).
If last year's adjusted gross income was over $150,000 ($75,000 if married filing separately), the prior-year figure is 110% instead of 100%.
Books withhold tax on a sports bet only for large wins at long odds (W-2G instructions), so most bettors have nothing withheld and a good year can leave you owing. The 2026 due dates are April 15, June 15 and September 15, 2026, and January 15, 2027.
A calculator, not tax advice. Show this to your CPA. Compare both counting methods with your own totals.