New Jersey Lottery

The New Jersey Lottery is the only legal form of gambling that operates statewide under the regulation of the state government. It is a member of the Multi-State Lottery Association (MUSL), which enables New Jersey residents to participate in nationally renowned games like Powerball and Mega Millions. Over the decades, the NJ Lottery has become a major source of funding for educational and state institutions while offering a diverse portfolio of games with attractive prize structures.

New Jersey's Role in National Lottery Games

New Jersey joined Mega Millions in 1999, back when the game was still called The Big Game. In 2011, the Megaplier feature was introduced, giving players the chance to multiply their non-jackpot prizes for an additional cost. Mega Millions jackpots begin at $20 million and frequently exceed hundreds of millions.

The Powerball was added to the New Jersey Lottery in 2010 as part of the national cross-sell expansion. Remarkably, the first-ever Powerball jackpot offered in the state was won by a local player who walked away with over $211 million. Since then, New Jersey has recorded several major Powerball wins, including a $338 million jackpot claimed by a Dominican immigrant—one of the largest in state history.

New Jersey’s Daily Games and Local Favorites

The NJ Lottery offers a strong selection of daily games that have become a staple for many regular players. These games offer better odds and faster results than national lotteries, making them highly attractive for those who enjoy more frequent participation.

Pick 3 is one of the oldest games in the state, launched more than four decades ago. Players select a three-digit number and choose from multiple bet types, including straight, box, wheel, pair, or split. Wagers start at just $0.50, and top prizes for a straight bet can reach $250.

Pick 4 followed about a dozen years later, offering a similar concept with increased complexity and payout potential. Players choose four digits and can bet straight, box, or a combination of both. While the minimum wager remains at $0.50, a $1 straight bet can return more than $2,000—making it a strong value option.

Pick 6 is a biweekly game (draws every Monday and Thursday) that operates on a 6/49 matrix. Players who match all six numbers win the jackpot, which starts at $2 million and increases with each rollover by at least $200,000. Smaller prizes are available for matching 3, 4, or 5 numbers.

Jersey Cash 5 is a daily draw game using a 5/45 matrix, offering a progressive jackpot that frequently surpasses $500,000. Each play costs $1. The game underwent a format change in 2003 to increase prize tiers and jackpot frequency. It remains one of the most popular in-state games due to its balance of favorable odds and substantial top prizes.

Cash4Life: Win for Life in the Garden State

Cash4Life is one of the most exciting multi-state games offered by the New Jersey Lottery. It provides players with the chance to win $1,000 a day for life as the grand prize or $1,000 a week for life as the second prize.

Each ticket costs $2. Players select five numbers from 1 to 60 and a single Cash Ball number from 1 to 4. Drawings are held every night at 9 PM EST. If a player matches all five numbers and the Cash Ball, they win the top prize, which is paid either as an annuity for life or as a lump sum cash option.

Cash4Life is especially popular in New Jersey because of its life-changing potential and relatively favorable odds compared to larger games like Powerball or Mega Millions. Unlike jackpot games that roll over, Cash4Life prizes remain fixed, offering consistency and long-term financial security.

Where Does the Money Go?

Proceeds from the New Jersey Lottery are allocated to public employee pensions, including those for teachers, law enforcement, and firefighters. This use of funds distinguishes New Jersey from other states that typically direct profits toward education. The NJ Lottery contributes more than $1 billion annually to these pension systems, making it a critical component of state funding.

Retail and Digital Access

While New Jersey does not currently offer full-scale online lottery ticket purchases, the official website and mobile app provide tools such as game information, result lookups, and the ability to scan tickets to check for wins. Players can purchase tickets and claim prizes at over 7,000 authorized retailers across the state. Instant win scratch-off games are also available at these locations, with dozens of themes and prize tiers updated regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I play Powerball and Mega Millions in New Jersey?

Yes, both Powerball and Mega Millions are available through the New Jersey Lottery, with tickets sold at licensed retailers across the state.

What is the Megaplier?

The Megaplier is an optional add-on feature for Mega Millions that increases non-jackpot prizes by 2x, 3x, 4x, or 5x for an extra $1 per play.

How do Pick 3 and Pick 4 work?

In Pick 3, players select three digits and choose how they want to wager—straight, box, or other combinations. Pick 4 is similar but involves four digits and higher potential payouts.

When are Pick 6 drawings held?

Pick 6 drawings are held every Monday and Thursday evening.

What is Jersey Cash 5?

Jersey Cash 5 is a daily draw game where players select five numbers from 1 to 45. It offers a progressive jackpot that increases until someone wins.

Does New Jersey offer online lottery ticket sales?

Currently, New Jersey does not allow full online ticket purchases, but the NJ Lottery app provides tools like ticket scanning and game tracking.

What happens to the money raised by the NJ Lottery?

Lottery proceeds help fund public employee pensions in New Jersey, including those for teachers, police officers, and firefighters.

What are the odds of winning Pick 6?

The odds of winning the Pick 6 jackpot are approximately 1 in 13.98 million. Smaller prizes have better odds.

How old do I have to be to play the NJ Lottery?

You must be at least 18 years old to purchase or redeem lottery tickets in New Jersey.

Where can I buy NJ Lottery tickets?

Tickets are sold at over 7,000 authorized retailers throughout the state, including convenience stores, gas stations, and supermarkets.