Connecticut - Guide to CT Lotto Games & Laws

Learn everything you need to know about Connecticut's lottery and scratch-offs

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In 1971, Connecticut made a historic move by legalizing its state lottery. Since its inception, the Connecticut Lottery Corporation has overseen the estimated payout of billions of dollars to lucky winners. The Connecticut lottery guide showcases that a significant portion of the revenue is channelled back into the state, supporting various public services and infrastructure projects. 

Additionally, with the advent of technology, the state has seen the emergence of scratch-off online gambling sites, expanding the ways residents can try their luck. In this article, readers will delve deeper into the nuances of the Connecticut lottery system, its contributions to the state, and the growth and regulation of online gambling platforms.

Connecticut Online Lottery

Connecticut’s online lottery platform is an innovative venture that brings the thrill of the lottery to your fingertips. By leveraging modern technology, the state provides a seamless way for you to engage in various lottery games from the comfort of your home or on the go. The platform not only retains the excitement and fairness of the traditional lottery but also adds layers of convenience and security. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just beginning your lottery journey, this platform promises a user-friendly experience tailored to your needs.

  1. Head over to the official Connecticut Lottery website from your device.
  2. Find the “Mobile App” section and tap on it.
  3. Based on your device (iOS or Android), select the corresponding download link.
  4. This will redirect you to the App Store or Google Play Store. Hit “Install” or “Get” to download the app.
  5. Once downloaded, open the app.
  6. Register or log in using your Connecticut Lottery account details.
  7. Follow any additional instructions to set up your payment preferences and any other settings.

Once you’ve got the Connecticut online lottery app, a world of possibilities opens up. You can directly purchase tickets for a range of games, including well-known draws like Powerball and Mega Millions, as well as Connecticut-specific games. With the app’s built-in ticket scanner, checking if you’ve struck gold is only a quick scan away. 

Moreover, you can opt-in for notifications, ensuring you’re always in the loop about upcoming draws, jackpot sizes, and even any winnings you might have secured. For a more streamlined experience, the app’s digital wallet feature allows you to manage your funds, making deposits and withdrawals a breeze. And remember, playing responsibly is crucial; the app offers tools and limits to ensure you can have fun while keeping things in check.

Connecticut Multi-state Draw Games

The thrill of multi-state lottery games isn’t just the vast sum of money that can be won; it’s the shared anticipation, the collective dream of players across state lines. Connecticut offers its residents the opportunity to play in some of the most prominent multi-state draw games. Here’s a closer look at what’s available for those in the Constitution State.

Powerball

Undoubtedly, Powerball is a name recognized across households in the United States. It’s been a beacon of hope for countless individuals dreaming of mega jackpots. To dive into the Powerball excitement, select five numbers from a pool of 69 and one additional number – the Powerball – from a set of 26. If you’re unsure about your picks, there’s a Quick Pick option that lets the machine make the selection for you.

Powerball-ticket

To play this game, you can get lottery tickets for up to $2. With a starting jackpot of $20 million, it’s no surprise Powerball attracts countless participants. There are nine ways to win a prize, ranging from a few dollars to the staggering main jackpot.

A resident of Connecticut hit gold in 2018 by claiming a massive $254 million Powerball prize.

  • The jackpot grows with each draw if there isn’t a winner.
  • For an additional $1, you can activate the Power Play feature, multiplying most prize amounts.
  • Drawings are held on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Matching numbers Prize amountOdds
Matching 5 + Powerball$194,000,0001 in 292,201,338
Matching 5 + $1,000,0001 in 11,688,054
Matching 4 + Powerball$50,0001 in 913,130
Matching 4$1001 in 36,525
Matching 3 + Powerball$5001 in 14,495
Matching 3$201 in 580
Matching 2 + Powerball$201 in 702
Matching 1 + Powerball$101 in 92
Matching Powerball only$71 in 38

Mega Millions

Mega Millions stands as a formidable contender to Powerball, frequently making headlines with its colossal jackpots. To try your luck, pick five numbers from a set of 70, and a Mega Ball from a pool of 25. And if decision-making isn’t your strength, the Quick Pick option is at your service.

Mega Millions

$2 is what it costs to get lottery tickets to play this game. The jackpot starts at a neat $20 million but can roll into mind-boggling figures. Nine prize tiers ensure many winners walk away with a smile.

2012 was a remarkable year for a Connecticut player who bagged a cool $15 million Mega Millions jackpot.

  • To multiply your winnings on non-jackpot prizes, opt for the Megaplier for an extra $1.
  • Jackpots that aren’t won continue to grow.
  • The excitement unfolds every Tuesday and Friday during the draws.
Matching numbers Prize amountOdds
Matching 5 + Mega BallJackpot 1 in 302,575,350
Matching 5 $1,000,0001 in 12,607,306
Matching 4 + Mega Ball$10,0001 in 931,001
Matching 4$5001 in 36,792
Matching 3 + Mega Ball$2001 in 14,547
Matching 3$101 in 606
Matching 2 + Mega Ball$101 in 693
Matching 1 + Mega Ball$41 in 89
Mega Ball only$21 in 37

Lucky for Life

While it might not have the brand recognition of the previous two, Lucky for Life has a unique proposition – consistent winnings for life. Dive in by choosing five numbers from 1 to 48 and a Lucky Ball number from 1 to 18. And if spontaneity is more your style, the Quick Pick option is always there.

Lucky for Life

Lottery tickets go for just $2, and the game lives up to its name by offering $1,000 a day for life as the top prize. But that’s not all – there are ten ways to win, with the second prize doling out $25,000 annually for life.

2019 brought immense joy to a Connecticut resident who secured the second prize, translating to $25,000 every year for life.

  • Prizes outside the top tiers have fixed amounts.
  • The anticipation peaks twice a week with draws on Mondays and Thursdays.
  • If you strike the top prize, there’s an option for a lump-sum payout.
Matching numbers Prize amountOdds
Matching 5 + Lucky Ball$1,000/Day for Life1 in 30,821,472
Matching 5 $25,000/Year for Life1 in 1,813,028
Matching 4 + Lucky Ball$2001 in 8,433
Matching 4$1501 in 3,413
Matching 3 + Lucky Ball$201 in 201
Matching 3$251 in 250
Matching 2 + Lucky Ball$31 in 15
Matching 1 + Lucky Ball$61 in 50
Lucky Ball only$41 in 32

Connecticut Draw Games

While multi-state games often steal the spotlight, Connecticut’s local draw games pack just as much excitement. Tailored to the residents of the Constitution State, these games offer substantial rewards and highlight the local flavor in the lottery landscape. Here’s your guide to Connecticut’s local draw games.

Connecticut Lotto!

Connecticut Lotto! stands as one of the state’s original and most beloved games. Its simplicity combined with the promise of substantial payouts makes it a household favorite. Jump into the game by selecting six numbers from a set of 44. If you’d rather let fate decide, the Quick Pick option allows the computer to choose for you.

Entering the game is a breeze at $1 per play. Jackpots start at $1 million and grow from there until someone clinches the top prize. There are also three more prize tiers, giving you even more chances to win.

In 2016, a Windham resident was over the moon upon winning a substantial $5.2 million Connecticut Lotto! jackpot.

  • Jackpots roll over when not won.
  • The game has been a staple in Connecticut since 1983.
  • Draws take place on Tuesdays and Fridays.

Cash5

Cash5 is another local gem offering players the chance to win cash prizes daily. To get into the Cash5 action, select five numbers from a range of 1 to 35. If number picking isn’t your thing, the Quick Pick option is always there to assist.

For just $1, you can become a part of the game. With top prizes frequently hitting the tens of thousands, Cash5 boasts impressive odds. There are four ways to win, ensuring multiple chances to secure a prize.

A lucky resident from Stamford celebrated 2018 in style after scooping up a $100,000 Cash5 jackpot.

  • Cash5 draws occur daily, heightening the excitement.
  • The game has a Kicker option, which for an extra 50 cents can boost your non-jackpot winnings.
  • Winning combinations offer prizes even if you match just two numbers.

Play3 & Play4

Play3 and Play4 are Connecticut’s daily draw games that offer flexibility in play styles and frequent chances to win. For Play3, you pick three digits, each from 0 to 9. In Play4, you select four digits. Both games allow you to choose the order of the numbers (straight) or any order (box), giving you control over how you want to play.

Wagers can be as low as 50 cents or as high as $5, depending on how you choose to play. With multiple ways to win and varying prize amounts based on your wager, Play3 and Play4 offer exciting rewards that can reach thousands of dollars.

In 2019, a New Haven individual struck gold by matching the Play4 night numbers, walking away with a cool $25,000.

  • Both games have day and night draws, doubling the opportunities to play and win.
  • The variety of betting options (like straight, box, or combination) allows players to strategize their plays.
  • The games are a daily delight, ensuring continual chances to snag a prize.

Connecticut Number Drawing Schedule

The Connecticut Lottery offers a variety of exciting games, each with its own unique drawing schedule. Check out the table below to ensure you never miss a chance to hit the jackpot.

GameMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturdaySunday
Mega Millions11:00 PM11:00 PM
Powerball10:59 PM10:59 PM
Classic Lotto7:05 PM7:05 PM7:05 PM
Lucky for Life10:35 PM10:35 PM
Rolling Cash 57:05 PM7:05 PM7:05 PM7:05 PM7:05 PM7:05 PM7:05 PM
Time Zone: GMT-5:00

Connecticut Scratch Tickets

Welcome to the world of Connecticut Scratch Tickets, where instant excitement and the chance to win big await you! In the heart of the Constitution State, these scratch-offs offer a thrilling way to test your luck and uncover instant prizes. To guide you through the array of choices, here’s a table showcasing some of the most popular scratch-off names, their ticket prices, and the enticing maximum prizes they hold:

Scratch off nameTicket PriceMaximum Win
Lucky 7s Galore$5$50,000
Cash Cascade             $2$20,000
Diamond Dazzle        $10$100,000
Millionaire’s Gold$20$1,000,000

Connecticut Laws

Connecticut Lottery laws oversee the operation and administration of lottery games in the state of Connecticut. Established in 1971, the Connecticut Lottery Corporation ensures the fair play and distribution of its games while contributing significant revenue to the state’s General Fund. Like all state lotteries, there are particular rules and guidelines to follow, both for players and operators, to maintain integrity and transparency. Connecticut’s lottery offerings are varied, and the state continually evaluates its offerings and regulations to cater to its residents.

AspectConnecticut Lottery Law
Legal age for lottery game18  years
Tax on winningsState: 6.99%, Federal: 24%
Anonymity for winnersYes
Limit to claim win180 days from drawing
Online lotteryNo

Overview of the Connecticut Lottery

The Connecticut Lottery Corporation, also known as CT Lottery, is the official lottery in Connecticut. It was established in 1971 and has since been offering a variety of games including draw games, scratch tickets, and Keno. The lottery is operated from its headquarters in Rocky Hill, Connecticut. The biggest win in the history of the CT Lottery was a Powerball jackpot worth $254.2 million in 2011.

AspectConnecticut Law
Company NameConnecticut Lottery Corporation
Founded Date 1971
HeadquartersRocky Hill, Connecticut 
Website Addresswww.ctlottery.org 

The CT Lottery contributes its proceeds to the state’s General Fund, which supports services like public health, libraries, public safety, and education. As for taxes, lottery winnings are subject to both federal and state taxes. The federal tax is 24% for winnings over $5,000, while the state tax is 6.99% for winnings over $5,000 for Connecticut residents.

Other Gambling in Connecticut

In Connecticut, a variety of legal gambling options are available to residents and visitors. The state has two of the world’s largest casinos, Foxwoods Resort Casino and Mohegan Sun, both of which offer a vast array of gambling options including slot machines, table games, poker, and bingo.

Connecticut also operates a state lottery, which offers draw games and scratch-offs. Additionally, pari-mutuel betting on horse and greyhound racing, as well as jai alai, is legal. In 2021, Connecticut legalized sports betting and online gambling, further expanding the range of legal gambling activities within the state.

Connecticut Lottery Winners

The Connecticut Lottery, also known as CT Lottery, has been making dreams come true for players since its inception in 1972. The lottery offers a variety of games, including Powerball, Mega Millions, Lotto, Cash 5, and scratch games, and has created numerous millionaires over the years. These fortunate winners, whose lives were transformed by their luck, are part of the rich history of the Connecticut Lottery.

NameDateWin AmountGame
Anne Noble 2012$32 MillionPowerball 
John and Linda Kutey2011$319 MillionMega Millions
Theresa Sokaitis2005$5.8 MillionPowerball 

FAQ 

What does the phrase “Second Chance” on my ticket mean?

It means that you’ve been given another opportunity, likely after a mishap or oversight the first time around. Perhaps you missed an event or didn’t claim something initially, and “Second Chance” indicates that you have another shot at it. Ensure you make the most of this opportunity, as “Second Chance” offers are often limited.

Do lottery laws differ in all US states?

Laws on gambling and the lottery are not the same in all US states. Each state has its own regulations and guidelines, like gambling age and other specifics, governing the operation and distribution of lottery games. While there may be some similarities, the specifics, such as prize limits, taxation, and the allocation of revenue, can vary widely from one state to another.

Can I play lotteries for real money at online casinos in Connecticut?

Connecticut approves of real money online gambling, including online sports betting and online casinos. However, specific offerings and regulations can change over time. If you’re considering playing lotteries at real money online casinos, you should check the most current regulations and laws governing online gambling in your state. Ensure that any platform you use is licensed and regulated by the appropriate state authorities.

Why do Connecticut lotteries not offer fixed prizes?

Connecticut lotteries, like many other lotteries, often use a pari-mutuel system for prize allocation. In this system, prizes are determined based on ticket sales and the number of winners, rather than offering a fixed amount. This approach ensures that the prize pool is distributed fairly among all winners, especially when there are multiple winners for a particular prize tier. So, by not offering fixed prizes, Connecticut lotteries can adapt the prize amounts based on actual sales and winning tickets, ensuring a more balanced distribution.

Can winners of the Connecticut lottery maintain their anonymity?

Connecticut does not allow lottery winners to remain completely anonymous. When you win a significant lottery prize in Connecticut, your name, town, and prize amount might be made public. This public disclosure is often justified by states for transparency reasons and to build trust among participants. However, if you have concerns about your privacy, it would be wise to consult with legal professionals and the lottery commission for any updated policies or potential protective measures.

Is there an app for the Connecticut lottery?

Yes, there is an app for the Connecticut Lottery. When you download this app, you can check winning numbers, scan tickets to see if they’re winners, and access other useful features related to the state’s lottery games. It’s a convenient tool for keeping up with the Connecticut Lottery on the go.

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