With the growing popularity of online gaming, some states are attempting to legalize the sale of online lottery tickets. However, the concept of a legal online lottery is still relatively new in the US. Although only six states have actually offered such services, a number of other states are planning to introduce them in the near future. This guide will cover the basics of what you can expect from an online lottery in the US.
States that offer online lottery ticket sales include Illinois, New York, Maine, Rhode Island, and Michigan. Each of these lotteries has its own games and offerings. Some have a limited scope, while others offer a wide variety of games. Whether you’re looking for an instant win scratch game or a jackpot game, there are options available.
The state of Washington has a lottery system in place. Residents must be at least 18 years of age to participate in the draws. They can also purchase tickets from an official courier, which does not require an in-person purchase. Ticket prices range from $1 to $20. A portion of the revenue goes to the state’s education fund.
The Massachusetts Lottery is in the process of legalizing online ticket sales. Connecticut is currently without an online lottery, and New Jersey is considering it as well. Another Northeastern state, Rhode Island, is experimenting with it. In the meantime, the online lottery sales in Pennsylvania are on the rise.
Wisconsin’s lottery offers multiple draw games. It also features a special promotion called the “second chance drawing.” This is a bonus for customers who regularly buy tickets. There are also multi-state draw games available. Other states offering online lottery games include Delaware, Kentucky, and Georgia.
Illinois launched its website in March 2012. After a few months, it added Powerball lottery tickets. It later expanded to include Daily Lottery Games and Instant Games. For the first time, Illinois was able to offer an online jackpot. These are casino-like games that can be played on the web, or even on a mobile phone.
While the odds are a bit slim, the odds of winning an instant game are comparable to those of a real scratch-off game. You can play these games from your desktop or mobile device, and you can even wager.
While many online lottery games cap at less than $20, the most expensive ones can top $200,000. Some of the most popular lottery draws include Mega Millions, which has a cash value jackpot of $983.5 million. Similarly, you can try your luck at Keno, which has a top prize of $100,000.
Online lottery sales in some states are a success, while in other states, they have yet to take off. Online sales are a potential way to increase revenues for states, while also providing convenience to players. Ultimately, the choice to offer or not to offer an online lottery is up to the individual states. Until more states adopt this option, it may be wise to stick with the lottery in your state.