Inaugurated in 1970, the New Jersey Lottery has been in operation for over 50 years, under the supervision of the New Jersey Division of State Lottery. The New Jersey Lottery also joined the Multi-State Lottery Association in 1996, along with 37 other US lottery jurisdictions.
Over the years, the state lottery has disbursed more than $42 billion in prizes and contributed over $28 billion to support education and institutions in the state. The lottery continues to aid the state, with roughly 66% of all yearly revenues going to beneficiaries.
In this New Jersey lottery guide, we’ll inform you about the availability of online lottery and lottery apps, the range of lottery games you can play, their draw times, additional gambling options, and other crucial information. This guide can also provide you with an understanding of what to expect when you use the best scratch-off online casinos.
The New Jersey Online Lottery, officially sanctioned by the state, offers residents and visitors the convenience of playing traditional lottery games via digital platforms. Participants can engage in a variety of games, from daily draws to instant win games, without the need for a physical ticket. The platform is not only user-friendly but also ensures the highest levels of security, maintaining the trust and integrity synonymous with the state’s lottery legacy. Additionally, it integrates seamlessly with mobile devices, offering a dedicated app for an enhanced gaming experience.
The app lets you participate in a wide array of games ranging from Mega Millions and Powerball to daily numbers games and instant win scratch-offs. You can also scan physical lottery tickets using their phone’s camera to check for winners instantly. Its live update feature keeps you in the know with real-time draw results and notifications if you’ve won without the need to visit a physical outlet.
Other things the app allows you to access include safe and secure payment gateways for purchasing tickets and withdrawing winnings, updated promotions and bonuses, your play history, and account management.
Remember, always ensure you’re downloading the official app and not a third-party version. The specifics of the app’s offerings may change over time, so it’s a good idea to refer to the official website or app store description for the most up-to-date information.
The state of New Jersey is not only renowned for its Atlantic City casinos and iconic boardwalks but also for its active participation in multi-state lottery draw games. By partnering with other states, New Jersey increases the potential jackpot amounts and adds more excitement for its lottery players. Here’s a detailed look at the multi-state draw games available in the Garden State:
Powerball is arguably the most well-known lottery game in the United States, with massive jackpots that can reach into the billions.
Players select five numbers from a set of 69 (white balls) and one number from a set of 26 (the Powerball). They can choose their numbers or opt for the Quick Pick option, where numbers are randomly chosen.
Lottery tickets cost $2 per play. Players can also opt for the Power Play feature for an additional $1, which can multiply non-jackpot prizes by up to 10 times. Apart from the ever-growing jackpot, there are nine ways to win a prize, ranging from your bet back to $1 million. If you match all five white balls (in any order) and the Powerball, you win the jackpot.
In 2018, a New Jersey resident made headlines by clinching a whopping $315 million Powerball jackpot after purchasing a ticket from a local convenience store.
Key Points to Note:
| 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 massive multi-state lottery, known for its sky-high jackpots and wide-reaching player base.
Players choose 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 those who prefer random numbers. The lottery tickets cost $2 per play and the Megaplier feature, available for an extra $1, can multiply non-jackpot winnings by up to five times.
In Mega Millions, the jackpots begin at $20 million and can increase rapidly. There are a total of nine prize tiers, with awards for matching just the Mega Ball right up to matching all five numbers plus the Mega Ball.
In 2020, a group of co-workers from New Jersey shared a massive $202 million Mega Millions jackpot, proving that pooling resources can lead to shared joy.
Key Points to Note:
| 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 |
Offering a unique twist, Cash4Life gives players a chance to win $1,000 a day for life! Players choose five numbers from a set of 60 and a Cash Ball number from a set of 4. The game offers both manual and Quick Pick options. Like the other two, lottery tickets for this one costs $2 per play.
The top prize is $1,000 a day for life, awarded for matching all five numbers and the Cash Ball. The second prize is $1,000 a week for life. There are also smaller prizes for matching fewer numbers.
In 2019, a New Jersey teacher won the second-tier prize of $1,000 a week for life, ensuring a comfortable and stress-free retirement.
Key Points to Note:
| Matching numbers | Prize amount | Odds |
| 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 | $4 | 1 in 28 |
| Matching 1 + Cash Ball | $2 | 1 in 13 |
While the multi-state draw games tend to steal the spotlight due to their colossal jackpots, New Jersey also boasts an array of local draw games that are just as exhilarating. These local offerings capture the essence of the Garden State, providing both frequent draws and enticing prizes for the residents. Here, we delve into the local lottery games exclusive to New Jersey.
Pick-6 is New Jersey’s original jackpot game, with millions up for grabs twice a week. Here, you’ll select six numbers from a pool of 49. You can choose your numbers or allow the system to pick for you using the Quick Draw option. Ticket purchase costs $1 per play.
The jackpot starts at $2 million and rolls over until someone hits all six numbers. There are also prizes for matching three, four, or five numbers.
A retired NJ resident took home a staggering $29.5 million in 2017, becoming one of the largest Pick-6 winners in recent history.
Key Points to Note:
Jersey Cash 5 is a daily draw game offering substantial jackpots and great odds. Players select five numbers from a range of 1 through 45. The XTRA option, available for an additional $1, can increase non-jackpot prizes.
Ticket Price is $1 per play, and jackpots begin at $100,000 and keep growing until someone wins. Players can also win by matching two, three, or four of the numbers drawn.
In 2019, a lucky player from Hudson County bagged $1.8 million, one of the game’s highest jackpots.
Key Points to Note:
These are the Garden State’s daily digit games, offering numerous ways to play and win. For Pick-3, players choose three digits, and for Pick-4, four digits. They can then decide to play straight (exact order), box (any order), straight/box (either order), or a combination.
Prizes vary based on the chosen play style and the amount wagered. A straight play on Pick-3 can win $250 on a 50 cent bet, while a straight play on Pick-4 can win $2,500 on a 50 cent bet.
A loyal player from Camden County, after years of playing the same numbers on Pick-4, pocketed a sweet $5,000 in 2020.
Key Points to Note:
From daily games like Pick-3 and Pick-4 to larger jackpot games such as Pick-6 and Jersey Cash 5, there’s a draw almost every day. Below is a convenient table that details the drawing times for each New Jersey Lottery game throughout the week.
| Game | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday | Sunday |
| Powerball | – | – | 10:59 PM | – | – | 10:59 PM | – |
| Mega Millions | – | 11:00 PM | – | – | 11:00 PM | – | – |
| Cash4Life | 9:00 PM | 9:00 PM | 9:00 PM | 9:00 PM | 9:00 PM | 9:00 PM | 9:00 PM |
| Pick 6 | 7:57 PM | – | – | 7:57 PM | – | – | – |
| Jersey Cash 5 | 7:57 PM | 7:57 PM | 7:57 PM | 7:57 PM | 7:57 PM | 7:57 PM | 7:57 PM |
| Time Zone: EST |
In the vibrant world of the New Jersey Lottery, scratch tickets stand out as instant-win games that promise both thrill and a possibility of immediate reward. These scratch-offs, available in a variety of themes and prize levels, provide players with an exciting and tactile gaming experience. From modest ticket prices to more premium ones, there’s a scratch ticket to suit every budget. The allure of potentially uncovering a fortune beneath the surface keeps these games eternally popular among New Jersey residents.
| Scratch off name | Ticket Price | Maximum Win |
| Lucky 7s | $1 | $5000 |
| Millionaire’s Club | $20 | $1,000,000 |
| Gold Rush | $5 | $250,000 |
| NJ Cash | $2 | $20,000 |
| Diamond Spectacular | $10 | $500,000 |
| Triple Cash | $3 | $50,000 |
The New Jersey Lottery, established in 1970, operates under specific regulations to ensure fair play, integrity, and responsible gaming. These laws are designed to protect both the players and the interests of the state. The lottery system not only provides entertainment for its participants but also contributes significantly to educational and social initiatives in the state. Understanding these laws is essential for anyone who partakes in or is considering playing New Jersey Lottery games.
| Aspect | New Jersey Lottery Law |
| Legal age for lottery game | 18 years |
| Tax on winnings | 5% federal, 24% state |
| Anonymity for winners | No |
| Limit to claim win | 1 year from the draw date |
| Online lottery | Yes |
The New Jersey Lottery, a prominent gaming institution in the state, has been captivating players with its diverse range of games since its inception. Established with the goal of raising funds for crucial state causes, it has not only entertained millions but also played a pivotal role in financial support for education and other institutions. With its headquarters nestled in Lawrence Township, the lottery boasts a rich history of massive jackpot wins and immense statewide participation. Over the years, it has cemented its place as a cornerstone of New Jersey’s recreational activities.
| Aspect | New Jersey Lottery Law |
| Company Name | New Jersey Lottery |
| Founded Date | December 16, 1970 |
| Headquarters | Lawrence Township, NJ |
| Website Address | www.njlottery.com |
| Biggest Win in History | $533 million (Mega Millions, March 30, 2018) |
The New Jersey Lottery’s primary mission, beyond providing entertainment to its players, is to generate revenue for the state. A significant portion of the lottery’s proceeds goes towards supporting education, institutions for veterans, and other state establishments. Regarding taxes, winners are subject to both federal and state tax withholdings. As of 2021, the state tax rate for lottery winnings in New Jersey stands at 5%, while the federal withholding rate is approximately 24%.
US gambling laws are different from state to state, and New Jersey is quite unique. In New Jersey, the realm of gambling is diverse and expansive, offering residents and visitors a wide array of legal gaming options. Atlantic City, often referred to as the East Coast’s gambling capital, is home to multiple world-class casinos that offer a vast range of table games, slots, and poker.
Beyond traditional casinos, New Jersey has been a pioneer in legalizing online casinos and poker sites, allowing players to engage in digital gaming from the comfort of their homes. In addition to casino games, the Garden State permits pari-mutuel horse racing betting, a state-run lottery system, and, more recently, has legalized sports betting at authorized locations and online platforms.
The New Jersey Lottery has been changing lives and creating millionaires for decades. From jubilant jackpot winners to elated entrants who’ve struck gold with smaller sums, the stories of triumph are as varied as they are inspiring. These fortunate few, who’ve had Lady Luck smile upon them, have not only transformed their own lives but have also etched their names in the annals of the state’s lottery history. Below is a table showcasing some of the record-breaking winners from the Garden State.
| Name | Date | Win Amount | Game |
| Richard Wahl | April 13, 2018 | $533 million | Mega Millions |
| Sigrid Endreson | June 16, 2014 | $20 million | Pick-6 XTRA |
| Mario Scarnici | Aug 7, 2013 | $448 million | Powerball |
| Pedro Quezada | March 23, 2013 | $338 million | Powerball |
The phrase “Second Chance” on your lottery ticket refers to a supplementary opportunity provided by many lotteries for players to win prizes even if their ticket didn’t win in the initial drawing. Often, players can enter these non-winning tickets into a separate drawing or promotion. The “Second Chance” drawings can offer various prizes, from cash to merchandise or special event tickets. Participating in “Second Chance” promotions increases your chances of winning something, even if your ticket wasn’t initially a winner.
Yes, you can play lotteries and other real money games at casino sites in New Jersey. The state has legalized online gambling, which includes online lottery games. Gambling age differs by state, but as long as you are within the NJ borders and over the age of 21, you can participate in these games.
New Jersey lotteries do not offer fixed prizes because they operate on a pari-mutuel system. This means the prize amounts are determined by the total sales for each draw and the number of winners. If there are more winners, the prize for each winner is smaller. This system allows for potentially larger jackpots but also means that the prize amounts can vary from draw to draw.
Yes, as a winner of the New Jersey lottery, you can choose to remain anonymous. In January 2020, a law was passed in New Jersey allowing lottery winners to stay anonymous if they wish. This means you can claim your winnings without your name being made public, protecting your privacy. However, it’s always recommended to seek legal advice before claiming large lottery prizes.
Yes, there is an official app for the New Jersey Lottery. The app is available for download on both iOS and Android devices. It allows users to check winning numbers and scan tickets to see if they’ve won, and it provides information on all the lottery games offered by the New Jersey Lottery. The app also offers a store locator to find the nearest lottery retailer.
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