What Are Pull Tabs? A Beginner's Guide
Pull tabs are small paper gaming tickets that players purchase and open to instantly reveal whether they have won a prize. They are one of the most popular forms of charitable gaming in the United States, commonly found in bars, VFW halls, churches, bingo halls and fundraising events.
If you have never played pull tabs before or are curious about how they work, this guide covers everything you need to know.
How Do Pull Tabs Work?
A pull tab ticket is a small folded paper card with perforated tabs on the front. Behind those tabs are hidden symbols or numbers. The player pulls back or tears open the tabs to reveal the symbols underneath. If the symbols match a winning combination printed on the ticket or on the game's display board, the player wins a prize.
The entire process takes just a few seconds. There is no waiting for a drawing and no need to check back later. Pull tabs deliver instant results, which is a big part of why they are so popular.
What Are the Different Types of Pull Tabs?
Pull tab games come in several formats, each offering a slightly different playing experience.
Instant Pull Tabs are the most common type. Each ticket is self-contained and players find out immediately if they have won. These are the classic pull tab format found in most bars and gaming venues.
Seal Card Games work differently. Players purchase tickets and hold them. Once all the tickets in the game have been sold, the operator opens a sealed card that reveals the winning ticket numbers. This format creates a shared sense of anticipation and is popular at bingo nights and community events.
Pull Chips are a variation where players pull a chip from a board rather than opening a paper ticket. The concept is the same but the physical format adds a tactile element that many players enjoy.
Cash Boards are complete game sets that include a large display board and a full set of tickets. The board tracks which prizes have been claimed and adds a visual element to the game that engages the whole room.
What Are Pull Tabs Used For?
Pull tabs serve several purposes depending on the setting.
In bars and taverns, pull tabs are an additional revenue source that keeps customers engaged. Players enjoy the low-cost entertainment and the chance of winning a prize with each ticket.
In charitable organizations such as churches, VFW posts, American Legion halls and civic clubs, pull tabs are a popular fundraising tool. The fixed payout structure makes it easy to predict how much an organization will raise from each game.
At community events, carnivals and fairs, pull tabs attract players of all ages and add to the overall entertainment experience.
Are Pull Tabs Legal?
Pull tab regulations vary by state, county and municipality across the United States. Most states permit pull tabs for charitable gaming purposes, but many require organizations to obtain a gaming license or permit before selling them. Some states restrict who can sell pull tabs and what percentage of proceeds must go to charitable purposes.
It is the responsibility of the buyer and operator to verify that pull tabs are legal in their jurisdiction before purchasing or selling them. Always check with your state's gaming commission for current regulations.
What Is the Difference Between Pull Tabs and Lottery Tickets?
Pull tabs and lottery tickets are similar in concept but differ in a few key ways. Lottery tickets are typically issued by a state government and sold through licensed retailers. Pull tabs are most often sold by charitable organizations and private venues under state gaming regulations.
Pull tabs also tend to be a more social experience. They are often sold in person at bars or events, and players frequently play alongside friends or other patrons. Lottery tickets are more of an individual transaction.
How Much Do Pull Tabs Cost?
Pull tab tickets are available at a range of price points. Common ticket prices include one dollar, two dollars, five dollars and ten dollars per ticket, though pricing varies by game and supplier. Higher priced tickets generally offer larger top prizes and higher overall payout structures.
Where Can You Buy Pull Tabs?
Pull tabs for use at charitable events, bars and gaming venues are available through specialty pull tab suppliers. EZPullTabs.com carries a full selection of instant pull tabs, seal card games, pull chips and cash boards, all shipped fast with no minimum orders.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pull Tabs
What is a pull tab? A pull tab is a small paper gaming ticket with hidden symbols behind perforated tabs. Players open the tabs to instantly reveal whether they have won a prize.
Are pull tabs the same as lottery tickets? They are similar but not the same. Lottery tickets are government-issued while pull tabs are typically sold by charitable organizations and private venues under state gaming regulations.
How do you win at pull tabs? You win by matching the symbols revealed behind the tabs to the winning combinations listed on the ticket or game board.
Are pull tabs legal? Pull tab legality varies by state and municipality. Most states allow pull tabs for charitable gaming purposes with the proper licensing. Always verify the laws in your jurisdiction before purchasing or selling pull tabs.
Where are pull tabs sold? Pull tabs are commonly sold at bars, VFW halls, American Legion posts, churches, bingo halls, fundraising events and community fairs.
What is a seal card pull tab? A seal card game is a type of pull tab where players hold their tickets until all tickets are sold. The operator then opens a sealed card to reveal the winning ticket numbers, creating a shared moment of excitement for all players.
Pull tab games may be regulated in your state. It is the sole responsibility of the purchaser to verify that these products are legal in their jurisdiction before purchasing. Not available in Pennsylvania (PA).