can i write off gambling losses?

Gambling losses are indeed tax deductible, but only to the extent of your winnings. This requires you to report all the money you win as taxable income on your return. However, the deduction for your losses is only available if you are eligible to itemize your deductions. If you claim the standard deduction, then you can't reduce your tax by your gambling losses. The IRS expects you to keep a diary of your winnings and losses as a prerequisite to deducting losses from your income. This diary should record both the losses and the winnings separately. The diary should include the date, type of gambling activity, name and address of the gambling establishment, and the amounts won or lost.