Kentucky Lottery

The Kentucky State Lottery began operations in 1989, following a 1988 voter referendum. Initially offering only two scratch-off games, the Kentucky Lottery has grown into a robust system featuring draw games, instant win tickets, and multi-jurisdictional jackpots. Over the years, some original Kentucky-only games were phased out due to low participation, but others have remained popular, especially those now available through the Kentucky Lottery online platform.

Today, Kentucky Lottery players can purchase tickets both at authorized retailers and digitally through the official website and mobile app, offering a convenient way to play from home. This includes draw games like Powerball and Mega Millions, instant-play digital scratch-offs, and popular in-state games.

Exclusive KY Lottery Games

Kentucky Cash Ball 225 is one of the signature draw games still offered daily (except Sundays). The game features a 4/35 matrix with an additional Cash Ball drawn from a pool of 25 numbers—hence the updated name “Cash Ball 225.” The top prize remains a fixed $225,000. Players can also add the “EZmatch” feature for an extra $1, giving them a shot at instant cash prizes.

Kentucky 5 Card Cash, introduced in 2014, offers players a poker-themed experience. Each ticket generates a five-card hand, and players can win instantly based on poker rankings. A nightly drawing also offers a second chance to win cash prizes if the hand matches the drawn cards. The blend of lottery and poker makes it a favorite for players looking for something different.

Pick 3 and Pick 4 remain staples of the KY Lottery portfolio. Pick 3 is drawn twice daily, offering players the choice between Straight, Box, or Combo play. With a 50-cent minimum ticket, the top prize is $600. KY Pick 4, also drawn twice daily, offers payouts of up to $5,000 on a Straight play. Both games are among the most played due to their favorable odds and frequency.

Kentucky Lottery and Interstate Jackpots

Powerball: Kentucky was one of the founding members of the Powerball consortium in 1992. As of 2025, Powerball tickets cost $2, and for an additional $1, players can activate the Power Play multiplier. The jackpot starts at $20 million and can climb into the billions, as seen in the record $2.04 billion jackpot won in 2022. Drawings are held three times a week: Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday.

Mega Millions: Kentucky joined Mega Millions on January 31, 2010. Tickets cost $2, and players can add the Megaplier for an extra $1. Drawings take place every Tuesday and Friday. The jackpot starts at $20 million (increased from the old $12 million base), with recent changes including automatic prize multipliers and improved secondary prize payouts—making it one of the most popular games available on the Kentucky Lottery app.

Decades of Dollars: This game was discontinued in 2014 and replaced by **Lucky for Life**, which offers a top prize of $1,000 a day for life and a second prize of $25,000 a year for life. Kentucky remains an active participant in Lucky for Life, with daily drawings and strong ticket sales.

How to Play Kentucky Lottery Online in 2025

The official Kentucky Lottery website and app allow players to register, fund their accounts, and purchase tickets for eligible games. KY Lottery online play includes Mega Millions, Powerball, Lucky for Life, Cash Ball 225, and instant win games. The digital platform also tracks play history and allows for auto-renewals and advance plays—convenient for busy players.

Kentucky was among the first states to legalize online lottery sales, and it continues to expand its offerings in 2025 with improved user interfaces and stronger account protections.

Responsible Gaming and Revenue Use

The Kentucky Lottery has transferred over $6.8 billion to the Commonwealth’s General Fund since its inception. Proceeds support education programs, including the KEES scholarship program. The lottery also promotes responsible gambling through resources like the “Play Responsibly” initiative and voluntary self-exclusion tools available online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy Kentucky Lottery tickets online?

Yes. Residents aged 18 and older can purchase draw game and instant play tickets via the official Kentucky Lottery website or app.

What is KY Cash Ball 225?

Cash Ball 225 is a daily (except Sunday) game where players choose four numbers from 1–35 and one Cash Ball from 1–25. The top prize is $225,000.

Is Lucky for Life available in Kentucky?

Yes. Kentucky offers Lucky for Life, a multi-state game with a top prize of $1,000 a day for life. Drawings occur every night.

What time are Kentucky Pick 3 and Pick 4 results drawn?

KY Pick 3 and Pick 4 are drawn twice daily, typically at 1:20 p.m. ET and 11:00 p.m. ET. Results are posted immediately after the draw.

Are Powerball and Mega Millions jackpots taxed in Kentucky?

Yes. Federal and state taxes apply. As of 2025, Kentucky imposes a 5% state tax on lottery winnings over $5,000, in addition to federal withholding.