California Lottery

The California State Lottery, established by voter approval in 1984, is one of the most dynamic and player-centric lotteries in the United States. With a mission to provide supplemental funding to California public schools and colleges, the lottery has contributed over 40 billion dollars to education. This public benefit model, combined with a wide variety of games and responsible gaming policies, has made the California Lottery a trusted and enduring institution.

Mega Millions and Powerball

California offers access to the nation’s two largest multistate lotteries: Mega Millions and Powerball. These games regularly generate jackpots exceeding hundreds of millions of dollars. A unique feature in California is that all non-jackpot prizes for these games are paid on a pari-mutuel basis. This means that the size of second-tier prizes, like matching five numbers without the Mega Ball or Powerball, depends on ticket sales and the number of winners.

This system can sometimes lead to larger-than-usual secondary payouts, especially when jackpots swell and more people are playing. California players have made national headlines multiple times, including recent billion-dollar jackpot winners.

SuperLotto Plus

SuperLotto Plus is a draw game exclusive to California. It has created many millionaires since it launched in 2000. Players pick five numbers from 1 to 47 and a single Mega Number from 1 to 27. Drawings are held every Wednesday and Saturday. The starting jackpot is 7 million dollars, and it rolls over until someone wins. SuperLotto Plus jackpots can grow rapidly, with some reaching over 100 million dollars.

Fantasy 5

Fantasy 5 is a daily game with better odds than the larger national draws. Players choose five numbers from a pool of 39, and prizes are awarded for matching two or more numbers. The jackpot starts around 60,000 dollars and increases if there is no winner. Fantasy 5 offers second-chance opportunities where losing tickets can still win substantial prizes.

Daily Games

The California Lottery also offers several fast-paced daily games that appeal to players who enjoy frequent drawings and simpler formats.

- Daily 3 and Daily 4 allow players to choose a set of digits and select play types like straight or box. These games are drawn twice daily, providing many chances to win small- to mid-size prizes.
- Daily Derby is a unique game that simulates a horse race. Players pick three horses to finish in first, second, and third place, along with a race time. Correct picks can lead to large cash prizes.
- Hot Spot is California’s take on keno, offering drawings every four minutes. Players choose how many numbers to play and how much to wager. The maximum top prize is 100,000 dollars.

Scratchers and Promotions

Scratchers are a key part of the California Lottery’s offerings. Tickets range in price from 1 to 30 dollars and offer top prizes that can go as high as 10 million dollars. Many scratchers offer instant-win prizes, as well as multipliers and second-chance entries.

The Second Chance program allows players to submit eligible non-winning tickets online or through the official CA Lottery mobile app for a shot at exclusive drawings and cash rewards.

Responsible Gaming and Public Benefit

The California Lottery adheres to strict responsible gaming practices. Players must be 18 or older to buy tickets. The organization offers self-exclusion tools, spending limit suggestions, and referrals to support resources.

Approximately 95 percent of every dollar spent on lottery games goes back to the community — through public schools and colleges, player winnings, and retailer commissions. Retailers earn commissions for selling winning tickets and receive bonuses for selling big jackpot winners, helping support small businesses across the state.

Where and How to Play

Lottery tickets can be purchased from more than 23,000 authorized retailers across California. Players can also use the California Lottery mobile app to check winning numbers, enter Second Chance draws, scan tickets, and find nearby retailers.

Online ticket sales for draw games are not currently available. However, CA Lottery is expected to explore future digital platforms in alignment with state regulations.

Prize Claims

Prizes up to 599 dollars can be claimed directly at lottery retailers. Larger prizes must be claimed via mail or in person at one of CA Lottery’s district offices. Players have up to 180 days from the date of the draw to claim their prize, or one year for a jackpot or top prize in a Scratchers game.

California Lottery FAQ

Does California have a state lottery?

Yes, California has a state-run lottery established in 1984. It offers both local games and multi-state draws like Mega Millions and Powerball.

Can I buy California Lottery tickets online?

No, California does not currently offer online ticket sales. All tickets must be purchased from licensed retailers.

What time can I buy lottery tickets in California?

Most retailers begin selling tickets as early as 5:00 AM and stop around 2:00 AM. However, sales cut off for specific draws about an hour before the drawing time.

How late can I buy lottery tickets in California?

Ticket sales typically close at 7:45 PM for SuperLotto Plus and 7:00 PM for most multi-state games. Check the game-specific deadline.

How early can I buy lottery tickets in California?

Sales usually start around 5:00 AM, depending on the retailer's hours of operation.

How much are California Lottery tickets?

Ticket prices vary by game. Draw games like SuperLotto Plus and Fantasy 5 cost $1 per play, while Powerball and Mega Millions cost $2. Scratchers range from $1 to $30.

How old do you have to be to buy a lottery ticket in California?

You must be at least 18 years old to purchase or redeem California Lottery tickets.

How does the California Lottery work?

The CA Lottery offers draw games, scratchers, and second-chance promotions. A portion of all revenue goes to California public schools and colleges.

How long do you have to claim a lottery prize in California?

You have 180 days from the draw date to claim regular prizes and one year to claim jackpots or top Scratchers prizes.

How much tax does California take from lottery winnings?

California does not tax state lottery winnings. However, federal taxes apply—up to 37%, depending on the prize size.

Are lottery winnings in California anonymous?

No. California law requires the CA Lottery to publicly disclose the winner’s name, the prize amount, and the location where the winning ticket was purchased.

Can a trust or LLC claim lottery winnings in California?

Yes, a trust or LLC can be used to claim lottery winnings, but the actual ticket holder's name will still be disclosed publicly.

Where can I cash a winning California Lottery ticket over $600?

Prizes over $600 must be claimed at a Lottery District Office or by mailing a claim form and the winning ticket to the California Lottery.

How long does it take to receive lottery winnings in California?

Processing time varies, but most claims are paid within 6 to 8 weeks after submission and validation.

How to play the California Lottery?

You can play by purchasing tickets at authorized retailers. Choose your numbers or use a quick pick. Each game has different rules, so check specific instructions.

Which California Lottery game has the best odds?

Fantasy 5 and Daily 3 offer some of the best odds of winning smaller prizes. SuperLotto Plus and Scratchers also offer good value with varying odds.

What to do if you win the California Lottery?

Sign the back of your ticket immediately, keep it safe, and claim your prize within the deadline. For larger prizes, consult a financial advisor and submit a claim form to the Lottery.

Where are the most winning tickets sold in California?

High-volume locations such as major gas stations and grocery stores in metro areas like Los Angeles and San Jose often report more winners due to higher ticket sales.

Who won the California Lottery recently?

Recent winners are listed on the official California Lottery website, including the prize amounts and retailer locations.

Why does California seem to win big jackpots frequently?

California has a large population and high ticket sales volume, which naturally increases the chances of producing winning tickets.

How much does a retailer earn for selling a winning ticket in California?

Retailers receive a bonus for selling winning tickets: up to $1 million for a jackpot winner and smaller amounts for other prize levels.

How are California Lottery prizes paid?

Most prizes are paid as lump sums. For larger jackpots, players can choose between a lump sum or annual payments (annuity), depending on the game.