Massachusetts Lottery - Guide to MA Lotto Games & Laws

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

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The legal framework of the lottery in Massachusetts was established in 1971, with the game becoming a vital part of the state’s financial structure. Managed by the Massachusetts State Lottery Commission, the lottery has overseen an estimated payout of over $100 billion to winners, reflecting its popularity and success. The revenue collected has been instrumental in funding various state projects and supporting public welfare. 

In Massachusetts, Scratch-off online gambling sites have become a trendy choice, broadening the gaming spectrum. By referring to this Massachusetts lottery guide, you will explore the legal aspects, payout history, tax implications, and information on scratch-off online gambling sites within the state.

Massachusetts Online Lottery

The Massachusetts online lottery provides a convenient and modern way for residents to participate in various lottery games from the comfort of their homes. Operated by the Massachusetts State Lottery Commission, this digital platform includes traditional lottery games, instant win games, and exclusive online offerings. Secure and user-friendly, the online lottery complies with all state regulations, ensuring a fair and transparent gaming experience. The integration of Scratch-off online gambling sites has further enriched the digital lottery experience, offering exciting opportunities for instant play.

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting the App

  • Visit the Official Website: Navigate to the official Massachusetts State Lottery website on your mobile device or computer.
  • Find the App Link: Look for the designated download link or button for the Massachusetts lottery app.
  • Choose Your Platform: Select the appropriate version of the app based on your device’s operating system (iOS or Android).
  • Download and Install: Click on the download link and follow the on-screen instructions to install the app.
  • Create an Account: Open the app and sign up for an account using your personal information, making sure to comply with age and residency requirements.
  • Verify Your Identity: Follow the prompts to verify your identity, ensuring secure access to your account.
  • Deposit Funds: Add funds to your account using one of the available payment methods to begin playing.

The Massachusetts online lottery app brings a plethora of gaming options to your fingertips. Users can play traditional draw games such as Powerball and Mega Millions, as well as engaging instant win games, some of which are exclusive to the online platform. For those interested in Scratch-off online gambling sites, the app offers various themed scratch-off games, each with different prize levels and play styles. 

The app also provides real-time results, lottery ticket scanning capabilities, personalized notifications, and secure payment options, including withdrawals. Furthermore, the platform’s responsible gambling features and customer support ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all players.

Massachusetts Multi-state Draw Games

Massachusetts Multi-state Draw Games form an exciting aspect of the lottery landscape in the state. These games allow residents to participate in larger, multi-state jackpots that offer potentially life-changing rewards. The thrill of the game, combined with the allure of substantial prizes, continues to draw both seasoned players and newcomers alike. Note that each state’s legal gambling age may differ, so you’ll want to consider that if you’re not a resident and wish to play the lottery. 

Powerball

Powerball is one of the most recognizable multi-state lottery games, available in Massachusetts and across numerous other states. You’ll  select five numbers from 1 to 69 (white balls) and one number from 1 to 26 (the Powerball). Lottery tickets can be purchased at authorized retailers or online platforms for $2 per play. You can also opt for the Power Play feature for an extra $1, which multiplies non-jackpot prizes.

Powerball-ticket

Powerball offers nine ways to win, with prizes ranging from $4 to the jackpot amount, which starts at $20 million and grows until someone wins. Secondary prizes can also be substantial, particularly with the Power Play multiplier. In 2018, a Massachusetts woman won a massive $758.7 million Powerball jackpot, the largest single-ticket jackpot win in U.S. history at that time.

  • Powerball drawings are held on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
  • Ticket sales cut off at least 59 minutes before the drawing.
  • Power Play multiplies non-jackpot prizes by up to 10 times.
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 exciting multi-state lottery game that Massachusetts residents can play, known for its giant jackpots and exciting gameplay. You pick five numbers from 1 to 70 and a Mega Ball number from 1 to 25. Lottery tickets are $2 per play, and the Megaplier option, for an additional $1, can multiply non-jackpot prizes.

Mega Millions

Mega Millions prizes start at $2 and extend to the jackpot, which begins at $20 million. The Megaplier can increase non-jackpot prizes up to five times their normal value. A Massachusetts resident became a millionaire in 2019 after matching all five white-ball numbers but missing the Mega Ball, earning a $1 million prize.

  • Mega Millions drawings occur on Tuesdays and Fridays.
  • The Megaplier can multiply non-jackpot prizes up to five times.
  • Tickets can be purchased online or at authorized retail locations.
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 offers a unique twist on the multi-state lottery game, with a top prize that pays out for the winner’s lifetime. Players select five numbers from 1 to 48 and one Lucky Ball number from 1 to 18. 

Lucky for Life

Tickets cost $2 per play and can be bought from licensed retailers or online. The top prize is $1,000 a day for life, and the second prize is $25,000 a year for life. There are also eight other ways to win, with prizes starting at $2. In 2016, a lucky player from Massachusetts won the second prize of $25,000 a year for life, providing a steady income for the foreseeable future.

  • Drawings for Lucky for Life are held on Mondays and Thursdays.
  • The top two prizes offer lifetime payouts, with minimum guaranteed periods.
  • Prizes must be claimed within 180 days of the drawing.
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

Massachusetts Draw Games

Massachusetts local Draw Games are an integral part of the state’s lottery tradition, offering residents an array of opportunities to win prizes while contributing to state funding. These games, exclusive to Massachusetts, are designed to provide excitement, entertainment, and the chance for financial rewards. In this article, we’ll explore some of the popular local lottery games that are a vital part of the Massachusetts gaming culture.

Mass Cash

Mass Cash is a popular draw game unique to Massachusetts, offering players an opportunity to win substantial prizes. To play, you’ll select five numbers from 1 to 35. The ticket costs $1 per play, and drawings are held daily. Tickets can be purchased at licensed retailers across the state.

The jackpot for Mass Cash is $100,000, and there are also lower-tier prizes for matching fewer numbers. The jackpot remains the same for every draw and can be won multiple times in a single drawing. In 2021, a Massachusetts resident won the $100,000 Mass Cash jackpot after playing the same numbers he had been playing for years.

  • Mass Cash drawings are held daily.
  • Multiple winners can share the $100,000 jackpot in a single draw.
  • Tickets must be claimed within one year of the draw date.

The Numbers Game

The Numbers Game is a longstanding local lottery game in Massachusetts, with several ways to play and win. Players can choose a 3-digit or 4-digit number and select from various play styles, such as Exact Order or Any Order. Drawings are held twice daily, and ticket prices range from $0.50 to $5.00 depending on the play type.

Prizes for The Numbers Game vary widely based on the play style and bet amount, ranging from a few dollars to several thousand. A player from Boston won over $5,000 in 2020 by playing a 4-digit number with a $1 bet in Exact Order.

  • There are both midday and evening drawings, held seven days a week.
  • The variety of play styles and bet amounts allow for customized play.
  • Prizes vary based on the selected play style and wager amount.

Keno

Keno is a fast-paced, exciting game that offers frequent drawings and various ways to win. Players choose a set of numbers from 1 to 80 and decide on a wager between $1 and $25. Drawings are held every four minutes, allowing for continuous play throughout the day.

Prizes are determined by how many numbers are matched, the chosen wager, and additional options like KENO BONUS, which can multiply winnings. In 2019, a Keno player from Massachusetts won $30,000 after selecting 12 numbers and matching all of them.

  • Drawings occur every four minutes, offering nearly constant play.
  • Players can choose from 1 to 12 numbers, allowing for a variety of play strategies.
  • Additional options like KENO BONUS can increase prize amounts.

Massachusetts Lottery Number Drawing Schedule

The Illinois Lottery Number Drawing Schedule provides detailed information on when each of the local and multi-state lottery games has its drawings. It ensures that players have up-to-date information on the exact times to tune in for the live draws, enhancing the excitement and anticipation of possible winning outcomes.

GameMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturdaySunday
Lucky for Life10:38 PM10:38 PM
Mega Millions11:24 PM11:24 PM
Powerball11:20 PM11:20 PM
Mass Cash Lotto10:00 PM10:00 PM10:00 PM10:00 PM10:00 PM10:00 PM10:00 PM
Megabucks Doubler11:20 PM11:20 PM
Time Zone: GMT-5:00

Massachusetts Scratch Tickets

Massachusetts Scratch Tickets, also known as instant tickets, offer lottery players immediate gratification and excitement. Unlike traditional draw games, scratch tickets reveal potential prizes instantly, providing a fun and interactive gaming experience. Ranging from low-cost options to more premium tickets, these scratch-offs cater to various budgets and preferences. Whether you’re seeking a quick thrill or chasing a substantial prize, Massachusetts Scratch Tickets provide a wide array of options, some of which have become particularly popular among residents.

Scratch off nameTicket PriceMaximum Win
$2,000,000 50X Cashword             $10$2.000,000
Win Up to $1,000 a Month for Life$2$100,000/month for Life
$5,000,000 100X Cashword              $20$5,000,000
$1,000,000 Holiday Bonus$5$1,000,000
Supreme Millions $30$15,000,000
$4,000,000 Instant Jackpot$10$4,000,000
$10,000,000 Diamond Millions$30$10,000,000

Massachusetts Lottery Laws

Each state operates under specific gambling laws and regulations to ensure fair play, integrity, and responsible gaming. These laws in Massachusetts, govern various aspects of the lottery, including the legal age to play, taxation on winnings, winner anonymity, claim limits, and online lottery availability. Understanding these laws is essential for anyone participating in the Massachusetts Lottery, as they define the legal framework and obligations for both players and the governing body. Below is a summary table outlining key legal aspects that are central to the Massachusetts Lottery experience.

AspectMassachusetts Lottery Law
Legal age for lottery game18 years
Tax on winnings5% state tax, federal taxes also apply
Anonymity for winnersNo
Limit to claim winGenerally 1 year from draw date
Online lotteryYes 

Overview of the Massachusetts Lottery

The Massachusetts Lottery, officially known as the Massachusetts State Lottery, is one of the most successful lotteries in the United States, offering various games ranging from draw games to scratch tickets. Since its inception, the lottery has provided players with numerous chances to win substantial prizes, contributing billions in revenue to the state. The organization operates transparently, with a focus on enhancing local communities through educational and other public benefits. A summary of the Massachusetts Lottery’s key information is provided below:

AspectMassachusetts Lottery Law
Company NameMassachusetts State Lottery Commission
Founded Date September 27, 1971
HeadquartersBraintree, MA 
Website Addresshttps://www.masslottery.com
Biggest Win in History$758.7 million (Powerball, 2017)

The proceeds from the Massachusetts Lottery contribute significantly to the state’s financial support for cities and towns. In Fiscal Year 2020, the lottery returned over $1 billion in profit to the Commonwealth, benefiting local aid funds. Additionally, winners are subject to a 5% state tax on their prizes, along with applicable federal taxes, further contributing to state revenue and various public programs.

Other Gambling in Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, various forms of legal gambling are available, including the state-run Massachusetts Lottery, which offers draw games, scratch tickets, and Keno. Additionally, the state is home to several licensed commercial and tribal casinos that provide a wide range of gaming options such as slot machines, table games like blackjack and poker, and live poker rooms. Pari-mutuel wagering on horse racing is also permitted at licensed tracks and simulcast centers. 

While sports betting has been a topic of discussion and potential legislation, as of the knowledge cut-off date in September 2021, it has not been legalized in the state. The Massachusetts Gaming Commission oversees the regulation and licensing of the casino industry, ensuring compliance with state laws and maintaining the integrity of gaming operations within the Commonwealth.

Massachusetts Lottery Winners

The Massachusetts Lottery has a rich history of creating millionaires and awarding substantial prizes to lucky winners. From daily games to multi-state jackpot draws, players across the state have claimed life-changing amounts, adding to the excitement and allure of participating in these games. The stories of big wins serve as both inspiration and a testament to the opportunities provided by the lottery. Below is a table showcasing some of the record winners in the Massachusetts Lottery’s history:

NameDateWin AmountGame
Mavis WanczykAug 2017$758.7 millionPowerball 
Geraldine WilliamsJul 2004$294 millionMega Millions
James FreemanJan 2021   $15 million$5,000,000 100X Cashword  
Louise WhiteFeb 2012$336.4 millionPowerball 
Richard NollJun 2011$10 million$10,000,000 Mega Fortune

FAQ 

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

The phrase “Second Chance” on your ticket refers to an additional opportunity for you to win, even if your ticket didn’t yield an instant prize. Many lotteries offer second-chance drawings or games where you can enter the non-winning ticket for a chance to win different prizes, such as cash, merchandise, or even exclusive experiences. It’s a way to give your ticket another shot at bringing you some luck, beyond the initial scratch-off game.

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

Yes, you can play lotteries for real money at online casinos in Massachusetts. The state allows real-money online casinos to offer a variety of gambling options, including lotteries and other casino games. You can enjoy the convenience of playing your favorite lottery games from the comfort of your home through these online platforms.

Why do Massachusetts lotteries not offer fixed prizes?

Massachusetts lotteries do not offer fixed prizes because they prioritize flexibility and variety in their games. By not having fixed prizes, the lottery can create more dynamic and exciting gameplay experiences for you. This approach allows for different prize amounts based on factors like ticket sales, enhancing the overall appeal and potential rewards of the games.

Can winners of the Massachusetts lottery maintain their anonymity?

Yes, winners of the Massachusetts lottery can maintain their anonymity. The state allows winners to keep their identities confidential if they wish, providing them with the option to shield their personal information from public disclosure. This ensures that you have the choice to keep your lottery success private if you prefer.

Is there an app for the Massachusetts Lottery?

Yes, there is an app available for the Massachusetts Lottery. The official app allows you to conveniently check winning numbers, scan tickets to see if you’ve won, and access information about various games and promotions. It’s a handy tool for staying updated on your lottery activities while on the go.

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