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Charity fee for break open tickets dropped

Break open tickets are made of paper or cardboard and have tabs that can be torn open to reveal a series of symbols
money

New changes will make life easier and more affordable for charities and the people who support them.

Attorney General Doug Downey announced today the elimination of a provincial fee applied to the sale of break-open tickets that has been tying up dollars that should be dedicated to charitable work.

"The change cuts red tape and will allow charities to contribute an additional $4 million to our communities," says a news release.

As part of their fundraising, many charities rely on revenue from the sale of break-open tickets. 

"When people choose to support a charity with their hard-earned money they want to know that investment is making the maximum impact on a cause they care about," said Downey. "To make life easier for charities and the people who hold them close to their hearts, Ontario's government is no longer charging charities an administrative fee on break open tickets so more revenues can support important causes and local communities."

Break open ticket lottery events conducted by eligible charitable and religious organizations are regulated and licensed by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) in partnership with municipalities.

In 2017/18, the provincial fee on the sale of break-open tickets cost charities approximately $4.7 million.

Break open tickets are made of paper or cardboard and have tabs that can be torn open to reveal a series of symbols. The winning combination of symbols can be found at the back of the ticket.

To qualify for a licence to sell tickets, select winners and distribute prizes, charities need to demonstrate to the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario that they provide a charitable benefit to residents of Ontario.

This March Ontario announced changes allowing Ontario residents to participate in online 50/50 draws at sporting events, regardless of where they live. This initiative allowed the MLSE Foundation to generate more than $6 million during the Toronto Raptors historic playoff run, raising more than three million dollars for MLSE foundation-supported charities and programs that benefit young people and communities.