Bingo in Washington: Laws, Halls & Online Bingo (2026 Guide)

Is bingo legal in Washington?

Yes. Washington allows bingo in two settings: games run by licensed charitable and nonprofit organizations, and tribal casino bingo run under tribal-state compacts and federal law.

The Washington State Gambling Commission (WSGC) licenses and regulates nonprofit bingo under the Gambling Act, chapter 9.46 RCW. Washington’s starting point is that all gambling is illegal unless state law specifically authorizes it, so bingo outside a licensed or exempt setting is off limits.

Washington stands out for how its nonprofit bingo developed. Instead of small weekly church games, many licensed nonprofits ran large, commercial-style halls with daily sessions and paid staff. Fewer of those halls operate today, and the biggest rooms in the state are now on tribal land.

How old do you have to be to play bingo in Washington?

The general rule is 18. WAC 230-06-010 bars anyone under 18 from gambling, with two bingo exceptions:

• Minors may play licensed bingo when accompanied by an adult immediate family member (spouse, parent or grandparent) or a court-appointed guardian who is at least 18. A babysitter or older friend doesn’t count.
• Minors may play bingo at agricultural fairs and school carnivals.

Tribal casinos set their own age rules. Lucky Eagle Casino, for example, requires bingo players to be at least 18.

Can you play online bingo for real money in Washington?

No. Washington is one of the strictest states on internet gambling. The Gambling Commission’s online gambling FAQ says the state prohibits online gambling, and that buying a raffle ticket online is a violation for both buyer and seller. Transmitting gambling information over the internet can be a felony under RCW 9.46.240.

Free bingo apps that pay no cash or prizes are a safer option. Our online bingo guide explains the main categories.

Are sweepstakes bingo sites legal in Washington?

No, according to the state regulator. The WSGC’s sweepstakes FAQ says that “sweepstakes” as these businesses use the term is a gambling activity, and a sweepstakes that doesn’t meet the rules for raffles or promotional contests isn’t legal in Washington. A separate Commission notice warns that games where players wager virtual currency for a chance to win more are likely illegal.

Washington hasn’t passed a sweepstakes-specific statute like New York or Tennessee. It doesn’t need one: its existing law already covers these sites, and the major dual-currency brands exclude Washington players. We list the status as restricted for that reason. Learn more in our sweepstakes bingo explainer.

Where can you play bingo in Washington?

Tribal casinos host Washington’s best-known bingo rooms:

• Lucky Eagle Casino & Hotel (Rochester), run by the Confederated Tribes of the Chehalis Reservation, lists bingo alongside slots, table games and keno.
• Tulalip Bingo & Slots (Tulalip), a dedicated bingo-and-slots property north of Seattle that runs daily sessions.
• Muckleshoot Bingo (Auburn), a companion venue to Muckleshoot Casino with roughly 1,000 bingo seats.

Nonprofit bingo still runs at some fraternal lodges, veterans’ posts and community halls. The WSGC publishes a map of tribal casino locations, and local organizations can tell you about their own game nights. Schedules change, so call before you drive.

How to run a charity bingo game in Washington

Washington separates licensed games from small activities that don’t need a license:

1. Check whether you need a license. Small, occasional bingo by qualifying organizations may fall under the Commission’s list of activities that don’t require a license, as long as the organization stays under the gross-receipts limits.
2. Apply to the WSGC for larger games. A bona fide charitable or nonprofit organization applies for a license class based on expected gross receipts.
3. Follow the conduct rules. Licensed games must follow the Commission’s rules on card prices, prizes, recordkeeping and who may work the game.
4. Keep minors out unless accompanied by an immediate family member or guardian, and post that rule in any ads aimed at families.
5. Report. Licensees keep detailed records and file reports with the Commission.

Our bingo fundraiser guide covers the planning side. New players can start with how to play bingo.

If bingo or other gambling is causing problems, see our responsible gaming page or call or text 1-800-GAMBLER.