Georgia Lottery - Guide to GA Lotto Games & Laws

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

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The Georgia lottery was officially legalized in 1992, introducing a new dimension to the state’s entertainment industry. Administered by the Georgia Lottery Corporation, it has paid out an estimated $70 billion in winnings since its inception. The revenue generated, including from scratch-off gambling sites, plays a crucial role in supporting educational initiatives within the state, primarily funding the HOPE Scholarship and Pre-K Programs. 

In this Georgia lottery guide, readers will explore the multifaceted legal landscape governing Georgia’s lottery system, the allocation of funds, and the burgeoning trend of online gaming options like Scratch-off online gambling sites. The article promises to enlighten you on the regulations, operation, and social contributions of the lottery in Georgia.

Georgia Online Lottery

The Georgia Online Lottery extends the excitement of the Georgia Lottery to a digital platform, offering residents access to their favorite games right from their smartphones or computers. Launched by the Georgia Lottery Corporation, the online platform includes popular games such as Mega Millions, Powerball, and unique Georgia-based draw games. Players can also engage with Scratch-off online gambling sites, offering instant games and prizes. The online system provides a secure and user-friendly experience, aligned with the regulations and responsible gaming practices of the state.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Get the App

  • Visit the Official Website: Open your browser and go to the official Georgia Lottery website.
  • Find the App Section: Locate the section for mobile apps, typically found in the main menu or footer.
  • Select Your Device: Click on the relevant link for your device (iOS or Android).
  • Download: You will be redirected to the Apple App Store or Google Play Store; click ‘Install’ to begin downloading.
  • Install and Open: Wait for the app to install, then open it on your device.
  • Register or Sign In: Create a new account or log in with your existing Georgia Lottery credentials.

Detailed Description of What the App Offers

The Georgia Lottery app serves as a convenient gateway to the state’s lottery system, allowing users to buy lottery tickets, play various draw games, and even indulge in Scratch-off online gambling sites. It features real-time updates on winning numbers, jackpots, and payouts, with the ability to scan physical lottery tickets to check for wins. 

A standout feature is the integration of responsible gaming tools, allowing users to set limits and self-exclusion. Through the app, players also contribute to the state’s education initiatives, such as the HOPE Scholarship, as a portion of the revenue goes directly to these programs. Combining convenience, entertainment, and social responsibility, the Georgia Lottery app provides an all-in-one solution for lottery enthusiasts in the state. If you are a visitor, be aware that each US state has its own gambling regulations, so you must be the legal age in Georgia to participate in the lottery.

Georgia Multi-State Draw Games

Georgia is known for its warm hospitality, rich history, and stunning landscapes. However, it’s also home to a variety of exciting multi-state draw games. These games offer Georgia residents and visitors the chance to win big, all while supporting education and other state-funded programs. Here, we’ll delve into the details of these multi-state draw games, including how to participate, ticket prices, potential prizes, and inspiring examples of past winners.

Powerball

Powerball is one of the most well-known multi-state draw games available in Georgia. Participants select five numbers from 1 to 69 and one Powerball number from 1 to 26. The jackpot starts at $20 million and grows until someone wins. In 2016, a Georgia woman won a staggering $246.8 million Powerball jackpot.

Powerball-ticket
  • Tickets cost $2 per play.
  • Jackpots start at $20 million and can reach into the hundreds of millions.
  • Draws are held every Wednesday and Saturday evening.
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 popular multi-state draw game. Players pick five numbers from 1 to 70 and one Mega Ball number from 1 to 25. The jackpot begins at $20 million and increases with each draw until there’s a winner. In 2018, a South Georgia resident won a jaw-dropping $1.537 billion Mega Millions jackpot, the largest in history.

Mega Millions
  • Lottery tickets are $2 per play.
  • Jackpots start at $20 million and can reach over a billion dollars.
  • Draws occur every Tuesday and Friday night.
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

Cash4Life

Cash4Life offers a unique twist on the typical lottery game. Instead of a lump sum, winners receive $1,000 a day for life. Players choose five numbers from 1 to 60 and one Cash Ball from 1 to 4. In 2017, a lucky Georgia man became the first in the state to win the top prize.

cash4life
  • Tickets cost $2 per play.
  • The top prize is $1,000 a day for life.
  • Draws are held every Monday and Thursday evening.
Matching numbers Prize amountOdds
Matching 5 + Cash Ball$1,000 a day for life 1 in 21,846,048
Matching 5 $1,000 a week for life 1 in 7,282,016
Matching 4 + CashBall$2,500 1 in 79,440
Matching 4$500 1 in 26,480
Matching 3 + CashBall$25 1 in 490
Matching 3$10 1 in 83
Matching 2 + CashBall$41 in 28
Matching 1 + Cash Ball$21 in 13

Georgia Draw Games

Georgia local Draw Games bring excitement and opportunity to the state’s residents, offering various games designed to cater to different tastes and preferences. From daily draws to huge jackpots, these local lotteries engage players and contribute to the state’s education system. In this guide, we will explore some of the renowned local Draw Games in Georgia, diving into how to participate, ticket pricing, the prizes available, and shining a spotlight on some winning stories.

Cash 3

Cash 3 is a favorite among Georgians, known for its simplicity and frequent draws. Players select three numbers from 0 to 9. They can choose from different play styles like Exact Order, Any Order, Exact/Any Order, and Combo. Lottery tickets can be purchased at authorized retailers.

Ticket price starts at $0.50 per play, depending on the play style chosen. Prizes range from $40 to $500, depending on the numbers matched and the play style. A player from Atlanta won $500 by matching all three numbers in exact order.

  • Draws are held twice daily.
  • Players must be 18 years or older.
  • Prizes must be claimed within 180 days from the draw date.

Cash 4

Cash 4 follows a similar format to Cash 3 but with more winning opportunities. Players choose four numbers from 0 to 9 and can select from various play styles, such as Exact Order, Any Order, and Combo. Tickets are available at authorized retailers.

Tickets for this lottery start at $0.50 per play. Depending on the play style and numbers matched, prizes vary from $100 to $5,000. A lucky Georgia resident won $5,000 by matching all four numbers in exact order.

  • Draws occur twice daily.
  • Players must be at least 18 years old.
  • Winning tickets must be claimed within 180 days.

Fantasy 5

Fantasy 5 is a daily jackpot game that offers players a chance to win substantial prizes. Players choose five numbers from 1 to 42. They can also opt for a Quick Pick. Tickets are sold at authorized Georgia Lottery retailers.

A ticket cost $1 per play. The jackpot starts at $125,000 and grows until someone wins. Other prizes are available for matching fewer numbers. In 2020, a player from Savannah won a Fantasy 5 jackpot worth $692,766.

  • Drawings are held every night.
  • Players must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Jackpot winners have the option to choose cash or annuity payment.

Jumbo Bucks Lotto

Jumbo Bucks Lotto is the official Georgia lottery and exclusive jackpot game with the chance to win big. Players select six numbers from 1 to 47 or opt for a Quick Pick. Tickets are sold at official Georgia Lottery retailers. 

The lottery ticket costs $1 per play. The jackpot starts at $1 million and grows until there’s a winner. Other cash prizes are available for matching fewer numbers. A player from Columbus won a $3.8 million Jumbo Bucks Lotto jackpot in 2019.

  • Drawings occur on Mondays and Thursdays.
  • Players must be at least 18 years old.
  • Winners must claim their prize within 180 days of the draw date.

Georgia Lottery Number Drawing Schedule

The Georgia Lottery Number Drawing Schedule is designed to keep players informed about the exact times for each lottery drawing within the state. Whether it’s daily games or large jackpots, this schedule ensures that lottery enthusiasts never miss a chance to witness the excitement of live draws.

GameMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturdaySunday
Mega Millions10:00 PM10:00 PM
Powerball9:59 PM9:59 PM
Cash4Life9:00 PM9:00 PM9:00 PM9:00 PM9:00 PM9:00 PM9:00 PM
Fantasy 511:34 PM11:34 PM11:34 PM11:34 PM11:34 PM11:34 PM11:34 PM
Jumbo Bucks Lotto11:00 PM11:00 PM
Play 312:29 PM 6:59 PM 11:34 PM12:29 PM 6:59 PM 11:34 PM12:29 PM 6:59 PM 11:34 PM12:29 PM 6:59 PM 11:34 PM12:29 PM 6:59 PM 11:34 PM12:29 PM 6:59 PM 11:34 PM12:29 PM 6:59 PM 11:34 PM
Time Zone: EST

Georgia Scratch Tickets

Georgia Scratch Tickets provide an immediate and thrilling way to participate in the lottery, offering instant games that are both engaging and rewarding. Available in a wide range of designs, price points, and prize levels, these tickets cater to different player preferences and offer chances to win varying amounts of cash. The excitement of scratching off the ticket to reveal potential winnings has made these games particularly popular among Georgia Lottery players. With opportunities for small wins up to grand prizes, scratch tickets in Georgia continue to entertain and offer chances for instant victory.

Scratch off nameTicket PriceMaximum Win
Jumbo Bucks Classic$1$10,000
Georgia Jackpot$5$500,000
Millionaire Jumbo Bucks$10$1,000,000
Win Big$20$2,000,000
Extreme Millions$30$3,000,000

Georgia Lottery Laws

Georgia Lottery Laws govern the operation, participation, and regulation of various lottery games within the state. These laws ensure that the games are conducted fairly, with transparency, and in adherence to established ethical practices. Knowing the framework for legal and responsible gaming in Illinois is crucial for participants due to differences in things like taxation and the legal gambling age across the United States.

AspectGeorgia Lottery Law
Legal age for lottery game18 years
Tax on winningsState: 5.75%, Federal: 24%
Anonymity for winnersNo
Limit to claim win180 days from draw date
Online lotteryYes 

Overview of the Georgia Lottery

The Georgia Lottery is the principal lottery system operating in the state of Georgia, offering a range of games such as draw games, scratch-offs, and multi-state lotteries. Established to enhance educational funding, the Georgia Lottery has contributed billions to the state’s educational programs since its founding. Governed by the Georgia Lottery Corporation, it not only entertains players but also fulfills a vital role in supporting the state’s academic goals. Major winnings and innovative games have marked its history, making it one of the most recognized lotteries in the United States.

AspectIllinois Lottery Law
Company NameGeorgia Lottery Corporation 
Founded Date June 29, 1993 
HeadquartersAtlanta, Georgia
Website Addresswww.galottery.com
Biggest Win in History$648 million (Mega Millions, December 17, 2013)

The proceeds and gaming revenue from the Georgia Lottery are dedicated to educational programs in the state. These funds are used to finance the HOPE Scholarship Program, providing scholarships to in-state colleges and universities, and to support Pre-K programs for all four-year-olds in Georgia. The tax on lottery winnings consists of 5.75% at the state level and 24% at the federal level, contributing to both educational support and overall revenue for the state.

Other Gambling in Georgia

In Georgia, the gambling landscape is considerably more limited compared to many other U.S. states. The state does not have any casinos, whether commercial or tribal, and sports betting is currently not legal. However, Georgia does have a state lottery, which is one of the most successful in the country. 

The lottery offers a range of games, including multi-state games like Powerball and Mega Millions, as well as local draw games. The proceeds from the lottery primarily fund education programs in the state. Additionally, Georgia law permits charitable bingo games and raffles. Pari-mutuel betting, such as horse racing and greyhound racing, is also currently not legal in the state.

Georgia Lottery Winners

The Georgia Lottery has been a source of excitement and dreams come true since its establishment in 1992. It has created countless millionaires and changed the lives of many more. The winners, from every corner of Georgia, have won playing a variety of games – from scratch-offs to big draw games like Powerball and Mega Millions. Their stories of luck and fortune are as diverse as the games they’ve played.

NameDateWin AmountGame
Sarah DavisApril 2023$750,000Cash 4
Robert ThompsonMay 2025$1,200,000Mega Millions
Lisa MartinezJune 2023   $300,000Georgia Five  

FAQ 

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

When you see the phrase “Second Chance” on your ticket, it often indicates an opportunity for another chance at winning. It might be part of a lottery or raffle where non-winning tickets can be entered into a separate drawing for prizes. Check the details on the ticket or the issuer’s website to understand exactly how this second chance applies to you. 

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

If you’re in the state of Georgia, you can participate in various lotteries, but not at online casinos for real money. If you opt for a neighboring state, just be sure to check the rules and regulations, as well as the age requirements, before participating. Choose licensed and reputable platforms to ensure a safe and legal gaming experience.

Why do Georgia lotteries not offer fixed prizes?

Georgia lotteries, like many others, often don’t offer fixed prizes because the prize amounts are linked to the number of tickets sold and the number of winners. This variable prize structure means that the jackpots can grow substantially if there are no winners in consecutive draws. For you as a player, it creates an opportunity for potentially larger prizes but also means that the exact prize amount can fluctuate.

Can winners of the Georgia lottery maintain their anonymity?

Yes, in Georgia, if you win a lottery prize of $250,000 or more, you have the option to remain anonymous. This means your name, address, and other identifying information can be kept private if you choose. It’s still wise for you to consult with a legal or financial professional to ensure that all aspects of your privacy are managed according to your wishes.

Is there an app for the Georgia Lottery?

Yes, the Georgia Lottery does offer an official app that you can download to your mobile device. With this app, you can check winning numbers, view current jackpots, and even purchase certain lottery games if you are within the state’s borders. Make sure to download it from a reputable source like the App Store or Google Play to ensure you’re getting the real version.

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