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Bingo Game Operator

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Bingo Game Operator License Application Checklist

Who Must Have a Bingo Game Operator License?

A Bingo Game Operator license is required if an entity conducts bingo games in which designated numbers or symbols on a card are matched with numbers or symbols selected at random and prizes are awarded. Only organizations raising funds for the promotion of bona fide charitable, educational, scientific, health, religious, and patriotic causes can obtain a Bingo Game Operator license.

This description is only a general explanation of which businesses need to have a Bingo Game Operator license.

Application Requirements

Before You File Your DCWP License Application:

You must obtain the following required documents before filing your application. 

  • You must get a Bingo Identification Number from the New York State Gaming Commission. To apply, complete 1A-Application for Registration and Identification Number, available at http://www.gaming.ny.gov/charitablegaming/
  • You must obtain the following required documents before filing your application. Although DCWP does not require submission of these documents in order to process your application, DCWP reserves the right to request and examine the documents under section 20.104 of the New York City Administrative Code.
    • Nonprofit organizations must register and remain active with the New York State Department of State. Active status will be verified by DCWP prior to license issuance. You can confirm the status of your organization at NYS Web site. If applicable, you must also file an Assumed Name Certificate for your organization.

When You File Your DCWP License Application:

Below are requirements when filing your license application:

  • New York State Gaming Commission Application Materials
    Submit three (3) signed, completed copies of the following New York State Gaming Commission application materials available for download at http://www.gaming.ny.gov/charitablegaming/
    • BC-2 Application for Bingo License. On this form you must provide information about your nonprofit organization, the type of games to be played, the location of games, and the purpose of games.
    • BC-2A Application for Bingo License Schedules 1, 2, 3, 4. On this form you must provide information about staff and members.
    • BC-2B Application for Bingo License Schedules 5, 6, 7. On this form you must provide additional information about the games.
    • Members’ Affidavit Of Good Moral Character.
  • Granting Authority to Act Affirmation (download)
    If this application will be filed by someone other than the license applicant, the license applicant must submit a Granting Authority to Act Affirmation. 
  • Proof of Right to Use Premises
    Submit ONE of the following documents as proof of right to use premises where you will conduct bingo games:
    • A copy of your deed or bill of sale OR
    • A copy of your current lease. Note: The landowner must have a Commercial Lessor license issued by DCWP.
  • License Fee of $18.75 per occasion. The maximum number of occasions you can hold each year is 216. You cannot conduct bingo games on more than 18 days in a three-month period.
    Fees must be paid by credit card or check made payable to NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection. Cards accepted at the DCWP Licensing Center include Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover Card. Credit card payments are subject to a convenience fee. Check must be issued from a bank account that is established solely for bingo game transactions.

    Please note that a convenience fee applies if you submit your license application online. A major credit card is required to submit applications online.

Application Filing Process

File Online

  1. Review requirements and gather all materials.
  2. Click the Apply Online button below to login or create an account to start your online license application.

Apply Online Button

Important: If you need to file another license application, return to the Apply for a DCWP License page to read requirements and proceed to the next online application.

OR

File In Person
Schedule an appointment to file in person at the DCWP Licensing Center or NYC Small Business Support Center

DCWP LICENSING CENTER
42 Broadway, Lobby
New York, NY 10004
By Appointment Only Hours:
Monday-Thursday: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Last appointment: 3:30 p.m.

NYC SMALL BUSINESS SUPPORT CENTER
90-27 Sutphin Blvd, 4th Floor
Jamaica, NY 11435
By Appointment Only Hours:
Monday-Thursday: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Last appointment: 3:30 p.m.

By Email: LicensingAppointments@dcwp.nyc.gov
By Phone*: Call (212) 436-0441. (Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.)

*This number is to schedule an appointment for in-person service only. For general questions, email onlineappsdocs@dcwp.nyc.gov.

Free Interpretation Services are available on-site. To request a disability-related accommodation, visit our Accommodations page.

Additional Resources for Bingo Game Operator

  • New York State Gaming Commission forms are available for download at http://www.gaming.ny.gov/charitablegaming/
    • Application to Amend Bingo License
      After you receive your Bingo Game Operator license, you may conduct bingo game activity. However, if you have any changes to the license application, please file BC-6 Application to Amend Bingo License 10 days before the originally declared occasion date OR within 72 hours after an emergency cancellation (e.g., snowstorm, hall closure).
    • Financial Statements, Cash Control Report, and Additional License Fee
      You must submit BC-7 Financial Statement of Bingo Operations, BC-7B Cash Control Report, and pay an Additional License Fee of 3% of net profits to DCWP within seven (7) days of each bingo occasion. Fees must be paid by check payable to NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection. Check must be issued from a bank account that is established solely for bingo game transactions. Please submit the documents and payment in person OR by mail to:

      Attn: Licensing Center
      New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection
      42 Broadway
      New York, NY 10004
    • Quarterly Summary Statement of Bingo Operations
      You must complete BC-7Q Quarterly Statement of Bingo Operations within 15 days after the end of each calendar quarter. Submit the original to the New York State Racing & Wagering Board (address on form) and one copy to DCWP (address above).
  • For resources to help your business open, operate, and grow, visit nyc.gov/business.

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