Delaware - Guide to DE Lotto Games & Laws

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

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Delaware embraced the world of state-sanctioned gambling by legalizing its lottery in 1974. Managed by the Delaware Lottery Office, this system has, over the years, disbursed billions in prize money to its lucky winners. Revenue generated from lottery operations significantly contributes to the state’s general fund, supporting a myriad of public services and initiatives. As the digital age dawns, the emergence of online scratch-off sites offers a novel way to experience lottery games. Through this Delaware lottery guide, readers will gain insight into the legalities, financial implications, and burgeoning online trends in the First State’s lottery domain.

Delaware Online Lottery

The Delaware online lottery brings the excitement of traditional lottery games right to your fingertips. Launched as an initiative of the Delaware Lottery Office, this digital platform provides a convenient and secure avenue for residents to participate in various games without visiting a physical outlet. The online lottery not only encompasses popular draw games but also integrates instant win games and special promotions. Additionally, with its dedication to responsible gambling, the platform has implemented safeguards to ensure players have a safe gaming environment.

  1. Device compatibility check: Ensure your mobile device, whether Android or iOS, is compatible with the app requirements.
  2. Visit the Delaware Lottery official website: Go to the official Delaware Lottery website using your mobile device’s browser.
  3. Locate the app download link: Navigate to the “Online Lottery” section and find the appropriate link or QR code for your device’s operating system.
  4. Install the app: For Android users, you might need to enable installations from “Unknown Sources” in your device settings due to Google Play restrictions on gambling apps. iOS users can download directly from the App Store if available or follow on-site instructions.
  5. Open and Register: Once installed, open the app, and sign up using your details. Ensure you’re within Delaware state lines when registering and playing.

Engaging with the app, you’ll find a myriad of offerings designed for players like you. Not only does it allow participation in traditional draw games like Powerball and Mega Millions, but it also offers instant win games, which are digital equivalents of scratch-off tickets. Numerous promotions and special offers are frequently updated, ensuring you always have something new to explore. 

Additionally, with user-friendly interfaces and detailed game instructions, both seasoned players and newcomers can navigate effortlessly. And importantly, the app integrates robust security features and responsible gaming tools, ensuring your experience is both enjoyable and safe.

Delaware Multi-State Draw Games

In the world of lotteries, multi-state draw games stand as titans, offering players tantalizing dreams of massive wealth. Delaware, the First State, has wholeheartedly embraced these games, providing residents with avenues to join the nationwide excitement. Here, we explore the multi-state draw games that Delawareans can partake in:

Powerball

The Powerball is undeniably a flagship of lotteries, drawing participants from Delaware and far beyond with its staggering jackpots.

To join the Powerball frenzy, simply visit any authorized Delaware Lottery retailer. You’ll choose five numbers from 1 to 69 for the white balls, and then one number from 1 to 26 for the red Powerball. If number selection isn’t your forte, the Quick Pick is your random number generator.

Powerball-ticket

You can purchase lottery tickets for Powerball at $2 for each play. For an extra $1, you can also opt for the Power Play, a multiplier that can amplify your winnings.

The base jackpot starts at $20 million and can soar into the billions. Apart from the jackpot, there are nine other prize tiers.

In 2016, a lucky Delaware resident pocketed a Powerball prize worth $121.6 million, choosing to take the cash lump sum option.

  • Powerball hosts its draws on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
  • The Power Play option can increase non-jackpot prizes substantially, with multipliers up to 10 times.
  • Securing the jackpot has odds of around 1 in 292.2 million.
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 is another behemoth, known for record-breaking jackpots and nationwide excitement.

Grab a play slip at any Delaware Lottery retailer. Choose five numbers from 1 to 70, and then a Mega Ball number from 1 to 25. The Quick Pick option is available for automatic number selection. You can buy Mega Millions lottery tickets at $2 per game and even add the Megaplier, multiplying non-jackpot prizes with an extra $1.

Mega Millions

Jackpots kick off at $20 million, with potential for enormous growth. There are various prize levels available based on matched numbers. In 2004, a group known as the “Lucky Seven” from Delaware claimed a substantial Mega Millions jackpot worth $214 million, one of the largest in the game’s history.

  • Drawings for Mega Millions take place on Tuesdays and Fridays.
  • The Megaplier can boost non-jackpot prizes by up to 5 times.
  • The odds of bagging the jackpot are approximately 1 in 302.5 million.
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

Distinctive in its offering, Lucky for Life tempts participants with the prospect of daily payouts for the rest of their lives. Visit a participating Delaware Lottery retailer and pick five numbers from 1 to 48 and a single Lucky Ball number from 1 to 18. The Quick Pick option is also available for those who prefer random numbers.

Lucky for Life

Each play costs $2 and the top prize offers $1,000 daily for life. There’s also a second-tier prize of $25,000 annually for life, with additional prize levels depending on matched numbers.

In 2018, a fortunate Delawarean clinched the second-tier prize, ensuring a yearly windfall of $25,000 for life.

  • Lucky for Life has its drawings every Monday and Thursday.
  • It stands out as one of the few games offering lifetime prizes.
  • The odds of winning the top prize are set at 1 in 30.8 million.
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

Delaware Draw Games

Delaware, also known as “The First State,” is not only famous for its historical significance but also for its local draw games. These games offer residents the chance to win big while contributing to the state’s general fund. Whether you’re a seasoned lottery player or a first-timer, these games offer an exciting opportunity to try your luck.

Delaware Multi-Win Lotto

The Delaware Multi-Win Lotto is a popular local draw game with a twist. For just $2, you get three chances to win on a single ticket. The game involves picking six numbers from 1 to 35. Draws take place every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, with jackpots starting at $50,000.

For instance, in 2019, a Wilmington woman won a Multi-Win Lotto jackpot worth $164,472. She purchased her winning ticket from a local grocery store.

  • You can play the same numbers for up to 10 consecutive drawings.
  • Tickets must be purchased before 7:30 PM on draw nights.
  • Winners have one year from the draw date to claim their prizes.

Play 3 and Play 4

Play 3 and Play 4 are Delaware’s daily draw games. For as little as 50 cents, you can participate in these games. In Play 3, you pick three numbers, each from 0 to 9, while in Play 4, you choose four numbers. You can win up to $500 in Play 3 and up to $5,000 in Play 4.

In 2020, a lucky player from Newark won $2,600 in the Play 4 game after purchasing a ticket from a local convenience store.

  • You can play your numbers straight or boxed.
  • Draws take place twice daily, at 1:58 PM and 7:57 PM.
  • You can purchase tickets up to seven days in advance.

Delaware Cash 5

Delaware Cash 5 is a daily game that offers a fixed jackpot of $25,000. For just $1, players select five numbers from 1 to 35. If all five numbers match the drawn numbers, the player wins the jackpot.

A Dover man made headlines in 2018 when he won the Cash 5 jackpot of $25,000. He purchased his lucky ticket from a local liquor store.

  • Tickets must be purchased by 7:30 PM on the day of the draw.
  • You can play the same numbers for up to seven consecutive drawings.
  • All prizes must be claimed within one year of the draw date.

Delaware Number Drawing Schedule

The Delaware 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 Millions10:00 PM10:00 PM
Powerball9:59 PM9:59 PM
Lucky for Life10:38 PM10:38 PM
Lotto America11:00 PM11:00 PM
Multi-Win Lotto7:57 PM7:57 PM7:57 PM
Play 31:58 PM­7:57PM1:58 PM­7:57PM1:58 PM­7:57PM1:58 PM­7:57PM1:58 PM­7:57PM1:58 PM­7:57PM7:57 PM
Time Zone: EST

Delaware Scratch Tickets

Delaware Scratch Tickets beckon with the promise of instant wins and an adrenaline rush in the palm of your hand. These lottery tickets, available across the First State, bring forth a whirlwind of chances with every scratch. Whether you’re a casual player or a lottery enthusiast, there’s something thrilling about revealing what’s beneath that silver coating. To guide your next purchase, here’s a rundown of some of the most sought-after scratch tickets in Delaware:

Scratch off nameTicket PriceMaximum Win
Delaware Dollars$1$5,000
Lucky 7s             $2$20,000
Diamond Dazzler       $3$50,000
Golden Ticket$5$100,000
Mega Cash  $10$500,000
Diamond Millionaire$20$1,000,000

Delaware Laws

Delaware Lottery Laws are set in place to ensure fair play, protect players, and maintain the integrity of the games. While the First State was among the pioneers in legalizing gambling, it ensures strict adherence to the guidelines to safeguard participants’ interests. These laws also dictate the distribution and taxation of winnings. For those considering participating, understanding the key legal aspects is essential.

AspectMississippi Lottery Law
Legal age for lottery game18  years
Tax on winningsState: 6.6%
Anonymity for winnersYes  
Limit to claim win1 year  
Online lotteryYes  

Overview of the Delaware

Delaware’s main lottery has been a cornerstone of gaming in the First State for decades, providing an array of games that entice both residents and visitors alike. As you explore its rich history, you’ll find that it’s not just about winning but also about supporting vital state initiatives. Here’s a brief snapshot of the Delaware Lottery:

AspectDelaware Law
Company NameDelaware Lottery
Founded Date 1975
HeadquartersDover, Delaware 
Website Addresswww.delottery.com
Biggest Win in History$214 million (Powerball, 2004) 

It’s worth noting that the proceeds from the Delaware Lottery play a crucial role in the state budget. Revenue generated is used to fund critical state services, including education, public health, and public safety. Additionally, winners in Delaware face a state tax of 6.6% on their lottery winnings, ensuring a portion of the money returns to benefit the community.

Other Gambling in Delaware

As a resident or visitor in Delaware, you have access to a wide array of legal gambling options. The state offers a robust lottery system, including games like Multi-Win Lotto, Play 3, Play 4, Lotto America, Powerball, and Mega Millions, each with its own unique drawing schedules. Delaware is also one of the few states in the U.S. where online gambling is fully legal. 

This includes online casinos, online poker, and online sports betting. You can also enjoy live gambling at one of the state’s three large casinos, which offer a mix of slot machines, table games, and live horse racing.

Delaware Winners

Delaware Lottery winners are everyday people who have had the luck of winning major prizes in various games offered by the Delaware Lottery. These winners come from different backgrounds and walks of life, and their wins have brought them excitement and life-changing opportunities. Here are some record winners from recent years:

NameDateWin AmountGame
Jasma CollinsDecember 7, 2021$1,000Collect ‘N Win drawing
Anonymous Civil Service Worker 2022$40,000Instant Game FIND $
Lewes Woman2020$25,000WIN! IT! ALL! 

FAQ 

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

Some states have a “Second Chance” drawing that is referenced by the words “Second Chance” on your lottery tickets. If your initial lottery ticket does not win, you might still be eligible to enter a second chance drawing. Some games in the Delaware Lottery, for instance, are eligible for a second chance drawing.

Do lottery laws differ in all US states?

Yes, all states have unique lottery and gambling regulations. For instance, the lottery or gambling age may differ, and some states may offer second-chance drawings. It’s important to check the specific rules for your state’s lottery to understand the laws and regulations that apply.

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

Yes, you can play lotteries for real money at online casinos in Delaware. The Delaware Lottery oversees three online casino sites, allowing eligible players to enjoy a variety of online games for real money. To play at state-licensed online casinos in Delaware, you must be 21 years or older.

Why do Delaware lotteries not offer fixed prizes?

Delaware lotteries do not offer fixed prizes because the lottery is structured to provide many small prizes in fixed amounts of $5, $10, and $20, depending on the amount in the pool and the number of first or second prize winners. This means that the prize amounts can vary depending on the number of winners and the amount of money in the prize pool.

Can winners of the Delaware lottery maintain their anonymity?

In Delaware, you’re in luck when it comes to privacy. The state is one of the few that allows lottery winners to remain completely anonymous, no matter the size of their prize. This means if you hit the jackpot in Delaware, you can enjoy your winnings without the spotlight on your identity.

Is there an app for the Delaware lottery?

Yes, there is an official app for the Delaware Lottery. The app, known as the “Delaware Lottery” app, is available for download on both iOS and Android platforms. It provides players with information on games, winning numbers, locations to buy tickets, and more.

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