The US has a number of lottery games available to play. These include local, state-wide, and multi-state lottery games. Each of the states has its own set of laws for these games, so it is a good idea to familiarize yourself with them before purchasing a ticket. There are several online lottery games available for purchase.
Pennsylvania Lottery: The state of Pennsylvania offers an assortment of lottery games including Mega Millions, Keno, and virtual sports. Profits from these lotteries go to various public benefits, including education, low-cost prescription programs, and transportation services. Additionally, money goes to support the state’s general fund, debt services, and retired employee benefits.
New Jersey Lottery: The state of New Jersey offers seven draw games, including Powerball. Its proceeds are also used to benefit educational and environmental programs, and the state’s law enforcement agencies. However, the state does not offer online Powerball tickets.
Connecticut Lottery: The state of Connecticut has one of the oldest lottery organizations in the country. This lottery also operates online games, like keno, and offers scratch-offs. Some of the state’s proceeds are allocated to a variety of charities, including veterans’ and senior care services, and public school construction.
Hawaii: While the state of Hawaii does not have a legal lottery, players can still participate in a range of games on their own. In addition to the state’s lottery, players can play keno, pull tabs, and scratch-offs. If you win, you may be asked to provide identification documents and an IRS form.
West Virginia: Residents of the state of West Virginia are able to purchase tickets for three multi-state lottery games. Depending on the game, some of the prizes awarded are relatively large. Prizes over $50 must be claimed in person at the lottery’s claim center.
Oregon: Since its inception in 1984, the Oregon lottery has been instrumental in funding community projects. In fact, its aim is to return most of its profits to the public. To date, it has given out more than 50% of its prizes. Even tourists have been encouraged to try their hand at playing the lottery.
Alaska: Unlike most of the other states in the U.S., Alaska does not have a lottery. Players must travel to the nearest lottery retailer to purchase a ticket. Unless you can afford to spend hundreds or even thousands of dollars on tickets, the odds of winning a prize aren’t that great.
Pennsylvania: Pennsylvania Lottery offers an array of lottery games, but does not offer Powerball. Unlike many other lottery games, it is not legal for lottery ticket purchases to be made online. Despite this, the state is considering expanding its online reach.
Minnesota: The state of Minnesota has participated in numerous lottery draws, including the Powerball, Mega Millions, and several other multi-state draws. The state’s profits go to fund the state’s educational system, health and human service programs, and environmental initiatives.
The US Virgin Islands: A group of islands, the US Virgin Islands also runs a state-wide lottery. The lottery’s profits are earmarked for public school construction, natural resources, and wildlife habitats.