50/50 raffle calculator
Type in your ticket sales and see the total pot, what the winner takes home and what your organization keeps. Works for any split, not just 50/50.
How a 50/50 raffle pays out
Every dollar from ticket sales goes into one pot. When sales close, the pot is split: half to the winner, half to your organization. Sell $2,000 in tickets and the winner takes home $1,000.
The pot is the whole sales pitch. People buy more when they can see it growing, which is why so many groups announce the pot during the event and post updates online.
Running one well
- Announce the pot often. “We’re at $1,400!” sells tickets every single time.
- Use bundles and an arm’s length. They raise the average sale without raising the single-ticket price.
- Sell online too. Online sales add to the same pot, so the jackpot grows faster than the room alone can push it.
- Check your state’s rules. Some states set the split or require a license for 50/50 drawings.
Want the full playbook? See how to run a 50/50 raffle online, and grab our printable 50/50 raffle tickets.
50/50 raffle FAQ
How does a 50/50 raffle work?
Ticket sales go into one pot. One ticket is drawn, and that buyer wins half the pot. The organization keeps the other half.
How do you calculate a 50/50 payout?
Add up all ticket sales and multiply by the winner’s share. With $3,000 in sales and a 50% split, the winner gets $1,500.
Can the split be something other than 50/50?
Some groups run 60/40 or 70/30 in the organization’s favor, and some states regulate the split. Say the split clearly on the tickets and in your rules.
Can you sell 50/50 tickets online?
In many states, yes, with the right license. Online and in-person sales can go into one pot so everyone plays for the same jackpot. Check your state’s rules first.
What if the winner isn’t there?
Follow your written rules. Most 50/50s say the winner need not be present and set a deadline to claim the prize.
More free raffle tools
Grow the pot past the room
Chance2Win runs 50/50 raffles online with the pot on display, and your cash sales at the event go into the same drawing.