How to play the lottery
Playing the lottery is simple once you know the steps. Here’s the whole process from choosing a game to checking your ticket — in plain English.
1. Choose a game
Start by deciding what you want to play. The big national jackpot games, Powerball and Mega Millions, offer the largest prizes but the longest odds. State and regional games often have smaller jackpots and friendlier odds. Our games overview compares the main options, and your state page shows what’s available locally.
2. Pick your numbers
You can select your own numbers — birthdays, lucky numbers, anything within the game’s range — or ask for a quick pick, where the terminal chooses at random. Neither method is luckier than the other, because the draw itself is random. If you’d like a hand, our number generator creates a random set for any game.
3. Buy from an official source
Tickets are always purchased through an official state lottery or the channels it authorises. Confirm the draw you’re entering and the cut-off time, pay, and you’ll receive a printed ticket (or a digital record in states that support it). Keep that ticket safe — it’s your proof of entry.
4. Check the results
After the draw, compare your numbers against the official winning numbers. We explain exactly where to find them in our guide to checking results. Match enough numbers and you’ve won a prize at that tier.
5. Claim responsibly
Small prizes are typically paid at retail; larger ones follow a formal claim process with deadlines set by the state. Whatever the outcome, treat the lottery as entertainment: decide on a budget before you play and stick to it. If it stops being fun, our responsible gambling page lists free, confidential help.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the difference between picking numbers and a quick pick?
You can choose your own numbers or let the terminal pick them at random (a “quick pick”). Both have identical odds — the choice is purely personal.
How old do I have to be to play?
You must be of legal age, which is 18 in most states and 21 in a few. Always check the rule where you live.
Do I have to claim a prize in person?
Small prizes are usually paid at retail; larger prizes follow a formal claim process set by the state lottery, sometimes in person. Deadlines apply, so check promptly.