Montana Lottery

The Montana Lottery has been in operation since 1987, making it one of the longer-standing lotteries in the United States. As a founding member of the Multi-State Lottery Association (MUSL), Montana joined forces with other states to offer bigger jackpots and more engaging games. Despite its small population of just over a million, the state offers a surprisingly diverse lineup of games—from national draws to local exclusives and keno-style picks.

Powerball and Mega Millions in Montana

Montana joined the Powerball lineup in 1992 and has remained a consistent participant ever since. The game follows the same format as in other states: players select five numbers from 1 to 69 and one Powerball from 1 to 26. Tickets cost $2, and players can add the Power Play multiplier for an extra $1. Drawings are held every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday, offering jackpots that regularly climb into the hundreds of millions.

Mega Millions became available in Montana in 2010. With drawings every Tuesday and Friday, it gives players the chance to win enormous jackpots starting at $20 million. The standard play costs $2, and the optional Megaplier feature adds $1 per ticket to boost non-jackpot winnings. Montana residents have embraced both games, with sales supporting vital state programs.

Montana-Exclusive and Regional Games

Montana Cash is the state’s flagship local draw game. It’s a straightforward pick-5 format where players select five numbers from 1 to 45. Tickets cost just $1, and jackpots start at $40,000, rolling over until someone hits all five. Drawings take place every Wednesday and Saturday, and winners can choose between annuity payments or a lump sum.

10 Spot is Montana’s unique take on keno, where players pick 1 to 10 numbers out of 80. Twenty numbers are drawn twice daily—at 12:30 PM and 7:30 PM. Prizes vary depending on how many numbers are chosen and matched, with top payouts reaching $25,000. Interestingly, players can also win by matching zero numbers, making it one of the few games where total failure can still be rewarded.

Retired Games

Montana used to offer games like Wild Card 2 and Hot Lotto, both of which were multi-state draws operated in conjunction with MUSL. However, both have been discontinued. Wild Card 2 ended in 2016, and Hot Lotto was officially retired in 2017 to make way for other games such as Lotto America. These removals reflect broader trends in the lottery landscape, where games are streamlined in favor of better odds or more player engagement.

Scratch Games and Online Access

In addition to draw games, the Montana Lottery offers a wide variety of instant-win scratch tickets. These range in price from $1 to $20 and feature various themes, from classic cash prizes to seasonal promotions. While Montana does not offer full online ticket sales for draw games, players can access results, claim forms, and second-chance entry details through the official website or mobile app.

Where Do Montana Lottery Funds Go?

A portion of Montana Lottery proceeds goes directly into the state's General Fund, which supports a variety of public services and initiatives. This includes education, infrastructure, and state employee pension funds. Over the decades, the lottery has contributed hundreds of millions of dollars back into Montana’s economy—proof that every ticket sold plays a role beyond the game itself.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was the Montana Lottery established?

The Montana Lottery was created in 1987 following voter approval.

Can you play Montana Lottery games online?

While you can't purchase tickets online, you can check results and manage second-chance entries through the official mobile app and website.

What is Montana Cash?

Montana Cash is a local draw game where players select five numbers from 1 to 45 for a chance at a jackpot starting at $40,000.

What happened to Wild Card 2 and Hot Lotto?

Both games were discontinued: Wild Card 2 ended in 2016, and Hot Lotto was retired in 2017.

How does 10 Spot work?

In 10 Spot, players choose up to 10 numbers from a pool of 80, and 20 numbers are drawn twice daily. Matching all or even none of your numbers can lead to a prize.

What days are Powerball and Mega Millions drawn?

Powerball is drawn on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday. Mega Millions is drawn on Tuesday and Friday.

Where do lottery proceeds go in Montana?

Lottery funds in Montana go to the General Fund, supporting state programs, public services, and pensions.