Idaho Lottery - Guide to ID Lotto Games & Laws

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

Hero image

In 1988, Idahoans voted in favor of a constitutional amendment to legalize the state’s lottery. Ever since, the Idaho Lottery Commission has meticulously overseen the system’s operations, ensuring fair play and transparency. Over the decades, it’s estimated that billions have been paid out to lucky winners, solidifying its place in state history. 

Additionally, the revenues generated from the Idaho lottery have substantially supported Idaho’s public schools and buildings. Recently, the emergence of online scratch-off sites has further diversified Idaho’s lottery offerings. In this Idaho lottery guide, you’ll delve deeper into the legislative intricacies, financial contributions, and the burgeoning world of online lottery play in the state.

Idaho Online Lottery

The Idaho online lottery provides an accessible platform for participating in various lottery games, right at your fingertips. From draw games like Powerball to scratch-off online gambling sites, the official Idaho Lottery app makes it simple and secure to play. With its user-friendly design, the app facilitates ticket purchases, offers access to winning numbers, and even provides insights into how lottery funds are supporting Idaho’s public schools and buildings. It’s more than just a gaming platform; it’s a bridge to the state’s lottery system that embraces both fun and responsibility.

  1. On your smartphone or tablet, open the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).
  2. Search for the official Idaho Lottery app.
  3. Tap on the app icon, then tap “Install” or “Get” to download it to your device.
  4. After downloading, open the app and follow the prompts to create an account or log in if you already have one.
  5. Complete any necessary identity verification as required by law.
  6. You’re now ready to explore the app, buy lottery tickets, and enjoy the various games.

In the Idaho Lottery app, you’ll find a wide array of lottery games to suit your interests. You can purchase lottery tickets for popular draw games or explore scratch-off online gambling sites for instant fun. The app also offers a secure wallet for handling your funds and a ticket scanner to quickly check if you’ve won. 

As you navigate through the app, you’ll discover information on how the lottery supports Idaho’s communities, and you might even find special promotions to enhance your playing experience. With the Idaho Lottery app, you have an entire world of lottery excitement right in the palm of your hand, coupled with the knowledge that your participation helps support vital state initiatives. 

Idaho Multi-State Draw Games

Idaho’s participation in multi-state draw games has enriched the lottery experience for players across the state, providing thrilling opportunities to win substantial prizes. These multi-state lotteries span across numerous jurisdictions, building up larger jackpots and an exciting playing atmosphere. Here, you will explore the popular multi-state draw games available in Idaho, including ways to participate, ticket prices, available prizes, and examples of winners.

Powerball

In Idaho, you can play Powerball by visiting an authorized retailer or through online channels. You’ll need to select five numbers from 1 to 69 and a Powerball number from 1 to 26. A Powerball ticket costs $2. You can also add the Power Play option for an additional $1.

Powerball-ticket

Prizes start at $4 for matching just the Powerball and can go up to the jackpot for matching all five numbers and the Powerball. The jackpot begins at $20 million and grows with each draw. An Idaho family won a $1 million Powerball prize in 2019 by matching all five white ball numbers.

  • The deadline for ticket purchase is 7:55 p.m. MT on draw days.
  • The Power Play option can multiply non-jackpot prizes.
  • Winning numbers can be checked through authorized retailers or online platforms.
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

You can play Mega Millions in Idaho by purchasing a ticket from an authorized retailer or online. Choose five numbers from 1 to 70 and one Mega Ball number from 1 to 25. Each Mega Millions ticket costs $2, with the optional Megaplier available for an extra $1.

Mega Millions

Prizes range from $2 for matching only the Mega Ball to the jackpot for matching all numbers and the Mega Ball. Jackpots start at $20 million and roll over if not won.

An Idaho player won $4 million in Mega Millions by using the Megaplier option in 2018, quadrupling the regular $1 million prize for matching five numbers.

  • Lottery tickets must be bought by 7:55 p.m. MT on the day of the draw.
  • The Megaplier option can multiply non-jackpot winnings.
  • Official results are available at authorized retailers and online.
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

Lucky for Life can be played in Idaho by selecting five numbers from 1 to 48 and a Lucky Ball from 1 to 18. Lottery tickets are available at authorized lottery retailers or online. The cost for a Lucky for Life ticket is $2 per play.

Lucky for Life

The top prize is $1,000 a day for life, won by matching all numbers and the Lucky Ball. A second prize of $25,000 a year for life can be won by matching the five numbers.

A player in Idaho won the second prize of $25,000 a year for life in Lucky for Life in 2020.

  • Tickets must be purchased by 7:30 p.m. MT on draw nights.
  • Winners can choose between a lump sum or annuity payments.
  • Draws and results can be tracked through official sources and online platforms.
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

Idaho Draw Games

Idaho offers an array of local draw games that cater to the interests of lottery enthusiasts within the state. These games are not only exciting to play but also provide essential support to Idaho’s public schools and infrastructure. Below, you’ll discover the popular local draw games exclusive to Idaho, including how to participate, ticket prices, available prizes, and examples of winners.

Idaho Cash

To play Idaho Cash, visit a participating retailer and select five numbers from 1 to 45. Draws are held on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Each play costs $1. Prizes start at a free ticket for matching two numbers and go up to the jackpot, which starts at $20,000 and grows until it’s won.

In 2021, a lucky player from Boise won the Idaho Cash jackpot, taking home over $150,000.

  • You can purchase lottery tickets until 7:55 p.m. MT on draw days.
  • Jackpots roll over to the next draw if not won.
  • Results are available at authorized retailers and online platforms.

Weekly Grand

For Weekly Grand, you can either select four numbers from 1 to 32 or opt for Quick Pick. The game also includes a separate drawing for an additional Grand Number from 1 to 5. Each play costs $2.

Matching all four numbers and the Grand Number wins the top prize of $1,000 per week for a year, all state and federal withholding taxes paid. There are also other prize tiers for partial matches. A player from Meridian won the Weekly Grand top prize in 2020, receiving $1,000 every week for a full year.

  • Tickets must be purchased by 7:55 p.m. MT on draw days.
  • All prizes are paid as cash, including the top prize.
  • Winning numbers can be checked through authorized retailers or online platforms.

Pick 3

Pick 3 offers a daily draw where you select three numbers from 0 to 9. You can choose to play different play types like Straight, Box, or Combination. Play for as little as $1 per play.

Prizes vary depending on the play type and amount wagered, ranging from $40 to $500 on a $1 play. A player from Twin Falls won $500 by playing Pick 3 Straight in 2022.

  • Draws take place daily at 8 p.m. MT.
  • The more you wager, the more you can win.
  • Check the results at authorized retailers and online platforms.

5 Star Draw

In the 5 Star Draw, select five numbers from 1 to 45. Draws are held on Tuesdays and Fridays. Each play costs $5.

The top prize starts at $250,000 and rolls over if not won. Additional prizes are available for partial matches. A Coeur d’Alene resident won over $300,000 in the 5 Star Draw in 2021.

  • Tickets are available until 7:55 p.m. MT on draw days.
  • Non-jackpot prizes are fixed amounts.
  • Winning numbers are available at authorized retailers and online platforms.

Idaho Lottery Number Drawing Schedule

As an avid lottery player in Idaho, you have access to a wide variety of draw games with drawings held throughout the week. These scheduled drawings present you with multiple opportunities to try your luck and win enticing prizes.

GameMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturdaySunday
Powerball8:59 PM8:59 PM
Mega Millions9:00 PM9:00 PM
Lotto America9:00 PM9:00 PM
Lucky for Life8:38 PM8:38 PM
GameMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturdaySunday
Mountain Time (GMT-7:00)

Idaho Scratch Tickets

In Idaho, scratch tickets have become a popular and entertaining way for you to engage in lottery fun. With a simple scratch of a ticket, you can reveal exciting prizes ranging from a few dollars to life-changing sums. Whether you’re drawn to the playful themes, the immediate gratification, or the potential for a big win, Idaho’s scratch tickets have something to offer. For players like you, these tickets provide a convenient and thrilling gaming experience.

Scratch off nameTicket PriceMaximum Win
Sizzlin’ Hot 7s$1$7,000
Wild West Riches              $5$50,000
Emerald Green 8s       $10$88,888 
Silver & Gold$2$20,000
Diamond Mine $5$100,000
Lucky Loot$1$5,000

Idaho Lottery Laws

In Idaho, the lottery is a prominent aspect of the state’s entertainment offerings, governed by specific laws and regulations. These laws define various facets of the lottery, such as the legal age for gambling in each state, the taxation on winnings, anonymity options for winners, the time limit to claim winnings, and the availability of online lottery. As a player in Idaho, understanding these rules will help ensure your lottery experience is both enjoyable and in compliance with the state’s regulations. Here’s a brief overview to guide you:

AspectMississippi Lottery Law
Legal age for lottery game18  years
Tax on winnings6.925% state, plus federal
Anonymity for winnersNo
Limit to claim win180 days
Online lotteryNo

Overview of the Idaho Lottery

Idaho’s main lottery is operated by the Idaho Lottery, an organization that was established to generate revenue for the state’s public schools and buildings. Since its inception, the Idaho Lottery has become a popular source of entertainment, offering a variety of games ranging from scratch tickets to draw games. With a commitment to integrity and responsible gaming, the lottery has paid out millions in prizes, while also contributing significantly to state causes. The biggest win in its history underscores the potential rewards for players, while also benefiting the state’s educational and infrastructure projects.

AspectIdaho Lottery Law
Company NameIdaho Lottery 
Founded Date July 1989
HeadquartersBoise, Idaho 
Website Addresshttps://www.idaholottery.com
Biggest Win in History$220 Million (Mega Millions, 2005)

The proceeds from the Idaho Lottery are directed towards various vital state projects. Specifically, 50% of lottery revenue is directed to the prize fund, while the remainder is distributed to public schools, permanent building funds, and the Bond Levy Equalization Fund. Additionally, winnings from the lottery are subject to a state tax rate of 6.925%, plus federal taxes, ensuring that the lottery also contributes to the state’s fiscal health.

Other Gambling in Idaho

In Idaho, you have access to a selection of legal gambling options that cater to various interests and preferences. The state offers a mix of tribal casinos, where you can engage in gaming machines and off-track betting on horse races. Idaho’s state lottery provides numerous draw games and scratch tickets, allowing you to try your luck for potentially significant rewards. While commercial casinos, online gambling, and sports betting are not permitted in Idaho, you’ll find that the available options, including charitable bingo and raffles, create a diverse and entertaining gambling environment within the state’s legal framework.

Idaho Lottery Winners

Idaho Lottery Winners have become a symbol of dreams come true, achieving remarkable success in various lottery games across the state. From Powerball to scratch-off tickets, Idaho’s diverse range of games has created numerous millionaires and changed lives overnight. These winners not only experience personal triumph but also contribute to Idaho’s community, as a portion of lottery revenues supports public schools and state infrastructure. Their stories of luck and celebration resonate with many, inspiring further participation and adding to the vibrant lottery culture in Idaho.

NameDateWin AmountGame
Linda Alexander2007$1000Cool Moon Cashword
Scott Finney2003$222,400Idaho Cash
Kyle Plankers2005$2 MillionIdaho Cash

FAQ 

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

“Second Chance” in a lotto ticket refers to a special feature where non-winning tickets can be entered into a separate drawing or contest. For you, this means that the initial loss isn’t the end; you have an additional chance to win prizes, making the ticket purchase more appealing and extending the excitement of the game.

Do lottery laws differ in all US states?

Yes, lottery and casino laws differ in all U.S. states. Since the lottery is regulated at the state level, you’ll find variations in rules, regulations, and game offerings from one state to another. If you plan to participate in lottery games, it’s essential for you to understand the specific laws and regulations of the state you’re in, as they dictate the legal age, types of games, and distribution of revenue, among other aspects.

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

No, in Idaho, you cannot play state-run lotteries at real money online casinos. The state’s regulations prohibit online gambling, including playing lottery games through online platforms. To participate in the Idaho Lottery, you’ll need to purchase tickets from authorized brick-and-mortar retailers within the state.

Why do Idaho lotteries not offer fixed prizes?

Idaho lotteries typically offer pari-mutuel prizes rather than fixed prizes for certain games. This means that the prize amount you could win depends on the total sales for that particular drawing and the number of winners. This system allows for the possibility of larger jackpots when fewer people win, making the game more dynamic and potentially more rewarding for you.

Can winners of the Idaho lottery maintain their anonymity?

No, winners of the Idaho lottery cannot maintain complete anonymity. If you win a significant prize in the Idaho lottery, your name and hometown may be released as public information. This policy is in place to ensure transparency and integrity in the lottery system, but it does mean that your win could become public knowledge.

Is there an app for the Idaho Lottery?

Yes, the Idaho Lottery offers an official app that you can download to your mobile device. This app allows you to check winning numbers, scan tickets to see if they’re winners, locate nearby retailers, and even play certain games. It’s a handy tool for you if you’re an Idaho Lottery player, providing convenient access to essential information and features.

Stay Ahead of the Game

Are you ready to take your online gambling experience to the next level? Sign up for the LetsGambleUSA newsletter and get the latest news, exclusive offers, and expert tips delivered straight to your inbox.