Playing the Lottery Online
Almost every state in the US has its own lottery system. Each system offers a variety of draw games and instant win games. There is also a chance to participate in the Mega Millions and Powerball, the two biggest lottery draws in the US. Generally, the odds are about 1 in 24 for each ticket. The more you buy, the better your chance of winning. There are also multi-state lotteries where you can play in other states. Some states like Nevada have no lottery, but gambling is legal there. Nevertheless, many Nevada residents support a state lottery.
In recent years, several Northeastern states have started to explore the potential of legalizing online lotteries. Pennsylvania, for example, recently passed an online lottery bill, and New Jersey is attempting to do the same. However, most states still do not allow online lottery games. While online lotteries may have the potential to generate significant amounts of revenue for the state, gambling opponents have legitimate concerns about cannibalization and problem gambling. Online lotto sites, however, automatically withhold 24% federal tax on winnings. In the event that the winnings are more than $600, the online lotto site will send the winner a W2-G form.
The legalization of online lotteries got off to a sluggish start. However, online lottery sales continue to increase. For example, Michigan’s retail lottery has sold millions of dollars in tickets online, setting records along the way. In less than 18 months, sales have topped $8 million per week. Despite the growth, the online lottery remains relatively small compared to online casinos.
New Hampshire’s iLottery launched late in 2018. It offers a variety of draw and instant win games, allowing players to play from their mobile devices. In fact, some of these games are similar to scratch-off tickets you would find at a gas station or convenience store. They include Powerball, Mega Millions, and Lucky for Life. These games are played online or from a desktop.
The Connecticut Lottery has been operating for many years. It is one of the oldest lottery organizations in the US, and it has a variety of local and multi-state games. Profits from the lottery go toward the state’s general fund, education, and low-cost prescription programs. Similarly, the Oregon Lottery provides state parks and natural resources with funding, and it provides problem gambling treatment. Lastly, the Rhode Island Lottery provides tax relief, law enforcement, and public safety.
Illinois’ Lottery is a little more exclusive, with four draw games and one exclusive instant win game. The lottery has a variety of draw games and instant win games, including the SuperLotto Plus. In addition, Illinois Lottery is a member of the Multi-State Lottery Association, which provides a variety of lottery draws across multiple states.
New Jersey’s Lottery is another state-based lottery, with seven draw games and an instant win game. In addition to local games, the Lottery offers SuperLotto Plus and a mobile app. The state’s lottery is one of the first to sell lottery tickets online, and has a very good mobile app.