Legalized in 1989, the Minnesota State Lottery has been an active player in enriching the state’s financial and cultural fabric for over three decades, operating under the governance of the Minnesota State Lottery Commission. In 1990, just a year after its inception, the Minnesota Lottery joined the Multi-State Lottery Association, collaborating with numerous other US lottery jurisdictions.
Throughout its history, the Minnesota State Lottery has proudly awarded over $28 billion in prizes, and made significant contributions to various state causes, notably dedicating over $2.5 billion to support the state’s environmental and natural resources, as well as other beneficial projects. An impressive 85% of the annual revenues from the lottery go back into the state in the form of prizes, retailer commissions, and funds for beneficiary projects.
In this Minnesota lottery guide, we will delve deep into the offerings of online lottery options and lottery apps, the array of lottery games available for enthusiasts, draw schedules, additional gambling opportunities, and other relevant details. This will also offer insights into what to expect if you’re exploring scratch-off online gambling sites in the state.
The Minnesota Online Lottery is a digital platform offered by the Minnesota State Lottery that allows residents to participate in various lottery games directly from their devices. This state-regulated service provides players with a secure and convenient way to purchase lottery tickets, check winning numbers, and claim prizes.
Integrated with user-friendly features, the platform aims to offer an enhanced experience while ensuring responsible gaming practices. With a commitment to transparency, it also keeps players informed about where the lottery proceeds are channeled within the state. You must be of legal gambling age to participate.
Users can access a range of lottery games, including Powerball, Mega Millions, Gopher 5, and various instant win scratch games. The app includes a feature that allows users to quickly scan their physical lottery tickets to check for any winnings. Also, all purchases and prize claims are carried out in a secure digital environment with end-to-end encryption.
Users can view the most recent draw results and opt-in for notifications to stay updated on winnings and special promotions. The app provides tools and settings that help users set limits on their spending, play frequency, and self-exclude if necessary. For those new to the lottery or specific games, the app offers how-to guides, FAQs, and detailed game instructions.
Minnesota is renowned not just for its beautiful lakes and vibrant culture but also for its involvement in some of the country’s biggest multi-state lottery draw games. These games span across multiple states, offering participants a chance to win life-changing sums of money. While the odds might be longer due to a larger pool of players, the potential payouts are significantly higher than state-specific lotteries. Let’s delve into the most prominent multi-state draw games available in Minnesota.
Powerball is arguably the most recognized multi-state lottery game in the United States, with Minnesota being one of its active participants.
Buying a Powerball lottery ticket in Minnesota is straightforward. You choose five numbers from a set of 69 (white balls) and one number from a set of 26 (the Powerball). Alternatively, you can opt for a “Quick Pick,” where numbers are randomly generated for you.
A standard Powerball ticket costs $2. For an additional $1, players can activate the “Power Play” feature, which can multiply non-jackpot winnings. Jackpots start at a whopping $20 million and can roll over to astronomical amounts if no winners emerge. There are also smaller prizes for matching fewer numbers.
In 2018, a Minnesota lottery winner claimed a $1 million Powerball prize after matching all five white ball numbers.
| Matching numbers | Prize amount | Odds |
| Matching 5 + Powerball | $194,000,000 | 1 in 292,201,338 |
| Matching 5 + | $1,000,000 | 1 in 11,688,054 |
| Matching 4 + Powerball | $50,000 | 1 in 913,130 |
| Matching 4 | $100 | 1 in 36,525 |
| Matching 3 + Powerball | $500 | 1 in 14,495 |
| Matching 3 | $20 | 1 in 580 |
| Matching 2 + Powerball | $20 | 1 in 702 |
| Matching 1 + Powerball | $10 | 1 in 92 |
| Matching Powerball only | $7 | 1 in 38 |
Mega Millions is another heavyweight in the multi-state lottery scene and is readily available for Minnesota lottery enthusiasts. Players pick five numbers from a set of 70 and a Mega Ball number from a set of 25. Like Powerball, there’s also a “Quick Pick” option for automatic number generation.
A Mega Millions ticket will set you back $2. The “Megaplier” option, similar to Powerball’s Power Play, costs an extra $1 and can amplify non-jackpot winnings. The minimum jackpot for Mega Millions is also $20 million, with potential rollovers leading to much larger sums. Various other prizes are available based on the number of matched numbers.
In late 2019, a Minnesota couple made headlines when they pocketed a Mega Millions prize of $1 million, having matched all five primary numbers.
| Matching numbers | Prize amount | Odds |
| Matching 5 + Mega Ball | Jackpot | 1 in 302,575,350 |
| Matching 5 | $1,000,000 | 1 in 12,607,306 |
| Matching 4 + Mega Ball | $10,000 | 1 in 931,001 |
| Matching 4 | $500 | 1 in 36,792 |
| Matching 3 + Mega Ball | $200 | 1 in 14,547 |
| Matching 3 | $10 | 1 in 606 |
| Matching 2 + Mega Ball | $10 | 1 in 693 |
| Matching 1 + Mega Ball | $4 | 1 in 89 |
| Mega Ball only | $2 | 1 in 37 |
Lucky for Life might not have the colossal jackpots of Powerball or Mega Millions, but its unique proposition of lifetime prizes makes it a Minnesota favorite. You’ll need to select five numbers from a pool of 48 and an additional Lucky Ball from a set of 18.
Each lottery ticket costs $2, with the top prize being $1,000 a day for life, while the second prize is $25,000 a year for life. Other prizes range from $3 to $5,000, depending on matched numbers.
In early 2021, a Minnesotan walked away with the second prize, securing themselves $25,000 a year for life.
| Matching numbers | Prize amount | Odds |
| Matching 5 + Lucky Ball | $1,000/Day for Life | 1 in 30,821,472 |
| Matching 5 | $25,000/Year for Life | 1 in 1,813,028 |
| Matching 4 + Lucky Ball | $200 | 1 in 8,433 |
| Matching 4 | $150 | 1 in 3,413 |
| Matching 3 + Lucky Ball | $20 | 1 in 201 |
| Matching 3 | $25 | 1 in 250 |
| Matching 2 + Lucky Ball | $3 | 1 in 15 |
| Matching 1 + Lucky Ball | $6 | 1 in 50 |
| Lucky Ball only | $4 | 1 in 32 |
While multi-state draw games undoubtedly attract large audiences due to their colossal jackpots, Minnesota’s local draw games have their own charm and loyal following. These games resonate with Minnesotans, not just for their winning potential, but for their contribution to the state’s development. Let’s explore some of the most popular local draw games available in Minnesota.
Gopher 5 is a Minnesota exclusive that’s been a favorite since its introduction. Players pick five numbers from a pool of 47. They can either select their numbers or opt for a Quick Pick, which generates numbers randomly.
Each Gopher 5 play lottery ticket costs $1 The jackpot starts at $100,000 and grows with every draw until someone wins. There are also prizes for matching two, three, or four numbers.
In mid-2020, a lucky player from Rochester clinched a Gopher 5 jackpot of over $400,000, a testament to the game’s potential for substantial wins.
A daily game with good odds and a fixed jackpot, Northstar Cash is another local favorite. You get to choose five numbers from a set of 31. As with most games, there’s a Quick Pick option for automated number selection. A Northstar Cash ticket costs just $1.
The game boasts a fixed jackpot of $25,000. Lesser prizes range from $1 to $500, depending on the number of matched numbers.
Early in 2021, a Minnesotan from Mankato scooped up the $25,000 Northstar Cash jackpot, making local headlines.
Daily 3 is a straightforward and enjoyable game that offers multiple ways to win. Players pick three numbers, each between 0 and 9. They then choose a play type – straight (numbers in exact order), box (numbers in any order), or straight/box (a combo of the two).
Ticket prices range from $0.50 to $5, depending on the play type and wager amount. Winnings can vary from $40 to $500 for a $1 play, depending on the play type and numbers matched.
In late 2020, a resident from Minneapolis won $500 in Daily 3 by matching all three numbers in the exact order with a straight play.
The Minnesota Lottery conducts regular draws for its numerous games throughout the week. The schedule ensures participants have multiple opportunities to try their luck and win.
| Game | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday | Sunday |
| Powerball | – | – | 9:59 PM | – | – | 9:59 PM | – |
| Mega Millions | – | 10:00 PM | – | – | 10:00 PM | – | – |
| Lotto America | – | – | 10:00 PM | – | – | 10:00 PM | – |
| Lucky for Life | 9:38PM | – | – | 9:38PM | – | – | – |
| Gopher 5 | 6:17PM | – | 6:17PM | – | 6:17PM | – | – |
| Powerball | – | – | 9:59 PM | – | – | 9:59 PM | – |
| Time Zone: GMT-5:00 |
Minnesota Scratch Tickets, often referred to as instant tickets, offer lottery enthusiasts a direct shot at winning without the wait for a draw. These tickets are immensely popular due to their accessibility, variety, and immediate prize revelation. From themes ranging from festive to fantastic, there’s a scratch ticket for everyone. Not only do they provide instant gratification for players, but they also contribute substantially to the state’s revenue.
| Scratch off name | Ticket Price | Maximum Win |
| Gold Rush | $1 | $5000 |
| Minnesota Treasures | $5 | $100,000 |
| Lucky 7s | $2 | $20,000 |
| Platinum Payout | $10 | $500,000 |
| Mega Crossword | $5 | $100,000 |
| Diamond Dazzler | $20 | $1,000,000 |
Minnesota Lottery Laws govern the establishment, operation, and regulation of lottery games within the state. These laws ensure fair play, integrity, and the responsible distribution and use of revenue generated from the lottery. While the laws have evolved over the years, they consistently prioritize player protection and uphold the state’s commitment to fund various beneficial projects. It’s crucial for players and stakeholders to be aware of the key legal provisions associated with the Minnesota Lottery.
| Aspect | Maryland Lottery Law |
| Legal age for lottery game | 18 years |
| Tax on winnings | 7.25% state; federal tax varies |
| Anonymity for winners | Yes |
| Limit to claim win | 1 year |
| Online lottery | Yes |
The Minnesota Lottery, established in the late 1980s, stands as a beacon of entertainment and contribution for the state’s residents. Beyond its purpose of offering thrilling games and substantial prizes, the lottery has a deep-rooted commitment to supporting the state’s economic, environmental, and cultural projects. Through the years, it has been a significant source of revenue, with parts of its proceeds channeled back into initiatives that benefit Minnesotans. The lottery’s reputation is underpinned by its transparency, dedication to responsible gaming, and unwavering community support.
| Aspect | Minnesota Lottery Law |
| Company Name | Minnesota Lottery |
| Founded Date | 1989 |
| Headquarters | Roseville, Minnesota |
| Website Address | www.mnlottery.com |
| Biggest Win in History | $228.9 Million (Powerball, August 10, 2011) |
The Minnesota Lottery’s proceeds play a significant role in benefiting the state’s general fund, with a focus on environmental projects, wildlife habitat preservation, and various other initiatives. Additionally, lottery winnings are subjected to both state and federal taxes, with Minnesota imposing a 7.25% state tax on lottery prizes. This tax is in addition to any federal taxes winners must pay. It’s important for winners to consult with financial professionals to understand their tax obligations thoroughly.
Minnesota offers a diverse range of legal gambling options for its residents and visitors. The state operates a robust lottery system, encompassing multi-state draw games, local draw games, and scratch-offs. Additionally, Minnesota is home to several tribal casinos that offer slots, table games, and poker.
Horse racing enthusiasts can enjoy both live racing and pari-mutuel betting at designated racetracks, while charitable gambling is prevalent in the form of bingo, raffles, and pull-tabs. Although sports betting is not yet legalized, the state’s proactive approach toward gambling suggests that its landscape could evolve further in the coming years.
The Minnesota Lottery, since its inception, has turned dreams into reality for numerous participants. From modest wins to life-changing jackpots, stories of Minnesota Lottery winners resonate with hope, joy, and sometimes disbelief. Each winner’s story is unique, often inspiring others to try their luck, with many becoming part of Minnesota’s rich lottery folklore.
| Name | Date | Win Amount | Game |
| Paul White | August 2013 | $149.4 Million | Powerball |
| Thomas Morris | December 2011 | $228.9 Million | Powerball |
| Mary Beth Wedner | April 2008 | $15 Million | Gopher 5 |
| N. Nguyen | January 2020 | $1 Million | Mega Millions |
The phrase “Second Chance” on your lottery ticket refers to additional opportunities to win prizes beyond the initial drawing. If your ticket didn’t win in the main draw, it could still be eligible for a second chance drawing. These drawings often have fewer participants, which can increase your odds of winning. Make sure to check the rules and deadlines for these drawings on your lottery’s official website.
Gambling laws in the US give states the right to choose what to legalize, and online gambling for real money in any form is not legal in Minnesota yet. The state law allows for physical casinos and a state lottery, but online versions of these games are not permitted. It’s always important to check the most recent laws and regulations in your area, as these can change. Remember, it’s essential to gamble responsibly and within the law.
Minnesota lotteries, like many others, do not offer fixed prizes because the prize amounts are often determined by ticket sales and the number of winners in a particular draw. This system ensures that the prize pool is fairly distributed among the winners. It also creates an element of excitement, as the jackpot can grow significantly when there are no winners for several draws.
In Minnesota, lottery winners cannot remain completely anonymous. The state law requires the lottery to release a winner’s name, city of residence, game won, date won, and amount won to any third party who requests the information. However, the lottery does not release a winner’s street address or telephone number.
Yes, there is an app for the Minnesota Lottery. You can download the Minnesota Lottery’s official app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app allows you to check winning numbers, scan tickets, find a retailer, and even play some games on the go.
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