Virginia Lottery - Guide to VA Lotto Games & Laws

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

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In 1987, the Commonwealth of Virginia witnessed a pivotal change when the Virginia Lottery was legalized, heralding a new era of gaming within the state. Now under the steadfast vigilance of the Virginia Lottery Board, this legal gambling venture has flourished, paying out an estimated over $11 billion in winnings since its inception. Remarkably, a portion of the revenue generated is channeled towards supporting educational initiatives within the state, making the lottery a contributor to the community.

In this Virginia lottery guide, you will delve deeper into the transformative journey of lottery gaming in Virginia, the legislative framework governing it, and the societal implications it harbors. Furthermore, we will shed light on how you, as a participant, can make the most of your experience with insights on scratch-off gambling sites and other exciting lottery options available in Virginia.

Virginia Online Lottery

In the ever-evolving world of online gaming, the Virginia online lottery stands as a beacon of innovation and excitement, offering an expansive array of gaming options from daily draws to jackpot games. Dive deep into this immersive experience, where each click holds a promise of exhilaration and potential windfalls.

Embarking on your Virginia online lottery adventure is simple with the following step-by-step guide to getting the app:

  1. Open your device’s browser and head to the official Virginia Lottery website.
  2. Scroll to find the ‘Download the App’ section, typically highlighted for easy visibility.
  3. Select the appropriate version of the app for your device – Android or iOS.
  4. For Android devices, you might need to authorize installations from unknown sources within your device settings before initiating the download.
  5. After successfully downloading the app, launch it to either log in to your existing account or create a new one to start enjoying a plethora of gaming options.

Within the realms of the Virginia Lottery app, you are welcomed with an extensive selection of offerings designed to elevate your gaming experience. Apart from facilitating participation in prominent lottery games such as Mega Millions and Powerball, the app offers exclusive instant games, often paired with lucrative promotions to enhance your winning opportunities. 

Manage your account with ease, with features allowing you to check winning numbers, scan tickets to check for winners, and even customize alerts to stay abreast of jackpot sizes and draw dates.

Virginia Multi-state Draw Games

In the state of Virginia, lottery enthusiasts have a myriad of opportunities to try their luck not only in state-specific games but also in larger, multi-state draw games. These games, renowned for their substantial jackpots and extensive reach, provide an exhilarating chance for players to win big, while simultaneously contributing to state educational funds. 

In this guide, we delve deep into the multi-state draw games available in Virginia, presenting you with an overview of each, along with insights on how to participate, ticket prices, available prizes, and inspiring winner stories. Let’s explore the enticing world of Virginia’s multi-state draw games together.

Powerball

As one of the most popular lottery games across the US, Powerball is available for play in Virginia, presenting an incredible opportunity for lottery enthusiasts to bag substantial winnings. To participate, you simply need to purchase a ticket priced at $2 and select five white ball numbers from a set of 69, and one Powerball number from a set of 26. For an additional dollar, the Power Play option can increase non-jackpot prizes by up to 10 times. Every Wednesday and Saturday, the numbers are drawn, and prizes are awarded based on the number of matching numbers.

Powerball-ticket

In Virginia, Powerball has been instrumental in creating numerous millionaires. One remarkable example is that of Victor Amole, who won a stunning $1 million by trusting his dream and playing the numbers that appeared in it.

  • You can purchase lottery tickets for $2 (additional $1 for Power Play option)
  • Draw days are wednesdays and saturdays
  • Purchase ticket from authorized retailers or Virginia Lottery’s official website/app
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 thrilling multi-state draw game accessible to Virginia residents, known for its massive jackpots and exciting gameplay. To enter, purchase a ticket for $2 and select five numbers from a pool of 70, and one Mega Ball number from a set of 25. For an extra dollar, the Megaplier feature can multiply non-jackpot winnings by up to 5 times. Draws take place every Tuesday and Friday, bringing a wave of anticipation and excitement to participants.

Mega Millions

In 2019, an anonymous winner in Virginia clinched a massive $1 million Mega Millions prize, proving that dreams can indeed become reality with a simple lottery ticket.

  • You can purchase lottery tickets for $2 (additional $1 for Megaplier option)
  • Draw days are tuesdays and fridays
  • Tickets available at authorized retailers or via the Virginia Lottery’s official website/app
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 proposition to lottery players in Virginia, where for just $2, participants can potentially win $1,000 a day for life. To join, choose five numbers from a range of 1 to 60, and one Cash Ball number from a range of 1 to 4. Draws occur every day, ensuring daily excitement and opportunities to win. 

cash4life

A notable Virginia winner is Thomas McIntyre, who won the second-tier prize of $1,000 a week for life in 2020, transforming his financial future in an instant.

  • Lottery tickets cost $2
  • The draws for this lottery are daily
  • Purchase tickets at authorized retailers or through the Virginia Lottery’s official website/app
Matching numbers Prize amountOdds
Matching 5 + Cash Ball$1,000/Day for Life1 in 21,846,048
Matching 5 $1,000/Week for Life1 in 7,282,016
Matching 4 + Cash Ball$2,5001 in 79,440
Matching 4$5001 in 26,480
Matching 3 + Cash Ball$1001 in 1,471
Matching 3$251 in 490
Matching 2 + Cash Ball$101 in 83
Matching 2 $41 in 28
Matching 1 + Cash Ball$21 in 13
Cash Ball only$21 in 8

Lucky for Life

Lucky for Life is another enticing multi-state game available in Virginia, promising winners $1,000 a day for life for matching all six numbers. Participating in this game involves purchasing a $2 ticket and selecting five numbers from a set of 48, along with one Lucky Ball number from a set of 18. The draws happen every Monday and Thursday, making the beginning and middle of the week a potential source of joy and prosperity.

Lucky for Life

An encouraging tale is that of Rose Jeter, who won the second-tier prize of $25,000 a year for life in 2017, a story that continues to inspire Virginia residents to try their luck.

  • Lottery tickets cost $2
  • Draw days for Lucky for Life are Mondays and Thursdays
  • Buy tickets from authorized retailers or via the Virginia Lottery’s official website/app
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

Virginia Draw Games

In the vibrant state of Virginia, a rich tapestry of local draw games beckons lottery enthusiasts to try their luck and perhaps stumble upon a fortune. The Virginia Lottery is home to a plethora of games that tantalize with substantial prizes and tantalizing chances to win big, all while contributing towards educational initiatives within the state. As you navigate through this guide, we’ll introduce you to a selection of Virginia’s favorite local draw games.

Pick 3/Pick 4

The Virginia Pick 3 and Pick 4 games are a daily source of excitement, offering multiple draws every day. Engage in the game by selecting a three-digit number for Pick 3 or a four-digit number for Pick 4, along with your preferred play type and wager amount. Tickets start from as low as $0.50, creating a window for everyone to join in the fun. With several draws daily, you have numerous opportunities to bag a win.

A Hampton resident, for instance, enjoyed a windfall by matching all the numbers in a recent Pick 4 drawing, walking away with a cool $100,000 prize.

  • You can purchase lottery tickets from $0.50
  • Daily multiple draws
  • Purchase at authorized retailers or via the Virginia Lottery’s official website/app

Cash 5 with EZ Match

The Cash 5 with EZ Match offers you the chance to win up to $100,000 daily. To participate, purchase a $1 ticket and pick five numbers from a set of 1 to 41. If you wish, opt for the EZ Match for an extra $1 to win instant cash prizes. Draws are held nightly, keeping the anticipation alive each day.

An Alexandria resident became a beacon of hope when they scooped a massive $100,000 top prize, showcasing that dreams do come true with the Virginia Cash 5 game.

  • Ticket price are $1 (additional $1 for EZ Match option)
  • There are draws daily 
  • Available at authorized retailers and on the Virginia Lottery’s official website/app

Bank a Million

Venture into the Bank a Million game where, as the name suggests, you can win up to a million dollars. For $2 per ticket, select six numbers from a pool of 1 to 40, with draws held on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The unique feature of this game is that it pays the taxes on the top prize, meaning you actually bank a million dollars!

Not long ago, a resident from Virginia Beach experienced a life-altering moment by hitting the top prize, indeed banking a million dollars to uplift their life’s quality.

  • Lottery game tickets are $2
  • Draw days are Wednesdays and Saturdays
  • Tickets can be bought at authorized retailers or via the Virginia Lottery’s official website/app

Print ‘n Play

Adding a fresh layer of excitement to the Virginia Lottery, the Print ‘n Play games offer instant win opportunities without the need for a drawing. With a variety of games to choose from, ticket prices range from $2 to $10, providing a flexible way to engage in the lottery fun. Simply purchase your ticket, and immediately see if you have won a prize.

For instance, a lucky player from Chesapeake clinched a hefty prize recently, epitomizing the instant joy that Print ‘n Play games can bring to one’s day.

  • Lottery ticket prices range from $2 to $10
  • There are instant winning opportunities 
  • Tickets are available at authorized lottery retailers

Virginia Number Drawing Schedule

Navigating through the diverse landscape of the Virginia Lottery, you will find numerous games each with distinct draw schedules. Here’s a streamlined table to assist you in mapping out your week effectively, ensuring you are always ready for the next exciting draw.

GameMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturdaySunday
Powerball10:59 PM10:59 PM
Mega Millions11:00 PM11:00 PM
Cash4Life9:00 PM9:00 PM9:00 PM9:00 PM9:00 PM9:00 PM9:00 PM
Bank a Million11:00 PM11:00 PM
Cash 51:59 PM 11:00 PM1:59 PM 11:00 PM1:59 PM 11:00 PM1:59 PM 11:00 PM1:59 PM11:00 PM1:59 PM 11:00 PM1:59 PM 11:00 PM
Pick 41:59 PM 11:00 PM1:59 PM 11:00 PM1:59 PM 11:00 PM1:59 PM 11:00 PM1:59 PM 11:00 PM1:59 PM 11:00 PM1:59 PM 11:00 PM
Pick 31:59 PM 11:00 PM1:59 PM 11:00 PM1:59 PM 11:00 PM1:59 PM 11:00 PM1:59 PM 11:00 PM1:59 PM 11:00 PM1:59 PM 11:00 PM
Time Zone: EST

Virginia Scratch Tickets

Embarking on a journey through the vibrant landscape of Virginia Scratch Tickets, you’ll uncover a treasure trove of opportunities awaiting at your fingertips. From the affordable to the premium, Virginia’s scratch tickets offer a range of ticket prices, each promising a different bounty of potential rewards. Let’s navigate through the popular options, guiding you to choose the perfect scratch ticket that aligns with your hopes and dreams.

Scratch off nameTicket PriceMaximum Win
Virginia’s Treasure Hunt $5$150,000
Cash Multiplier       $10$1,000,000
Millionaire Maker$30$10,000,000
Cash Explosion     $20$2,000,000
Extreme Cash   $1$7,777

Virginia Lottery Laws

As you immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Virginia Lottery, it’s imperative to acquaint yourself with the statutory provisions that govern the games in the state. Virginia has established a set of laws that not only regulate the lottery operations but also safeguard the interests of the players. 

These legal nuances dictate several aspects, including the eligibility criteria, taxation on winnings, and the protocols for claiming prizes. To equip you with the knowledge necessary for a secure and enjoyable lottery experience, we’ve outlined the key legal facets you need to be aware of in the table below.

AspectVirginia Lottery Law
Legal age for lottery game18  years
Tax on winningsFederal and state tax applicable
Anonymity for winnersYes
Limit to claim win180 Year
Online lotteryYes

Overview of the Virginia Lottery

In the picturesque state of Virginia, the main lottery stands as a beacon of entertainment and opportunity for its many enthusiasts. Instituted in 1987, the Virginia Lottery has been continuously offering a plethora of games ranging from scratch-offs to multi-state draw games, constantly keeping the excitement alive. Over the years, it has recorded several notable winnings, etching memorable moments in the annals of lottery history. Here is a snapshot of the salient details about the Virginia Lottery that will give you a comprehensive view of its vast operations.

AspectVirginia Law
Company NameVirginia Lottery
Founded Date 1987
HeadquartersRichmond, Virginia
Website Addresswww.valottery.com
Biggest Win in History$230 million (Mega Millions, 2004)

Under the stewardship of this lottery organization, a significant portion of the gaming revenue is channeled towards supporting public education in Virginia. Besides contributing to the educational sector, the state levies both federal and state taxes on lottery winnings, as a means to further support its various initiatives. Before planning your lottery ventures, ensure to acquaint yourself with the tax implications to have a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience.

Other Gambling in Virginia

In the state of Virginia, the realm of legal gambling has been gradually expanding to offer more avenues for enthusiasts. Certainly, the centerpiece remains the Virginia Lottery, which, since its inception in 1987, has been offering a multitude of games from scratch tickets to lucrative jackpot draw games. In recent years, Virginia has welcomed the legalization of sports betting, enabling aficionados to place bets on various sports events through online platforms. 

Furthermore, the state has given the green light to casinos, with plans well underway to launch brick-and-mortar establishments in several cities, promising a surge in gaming opportunities. Hence, residents and visitors can anticipate a vibrant and growing gambling sector, all within a framework that promotes responsible and ethical gaming.

Virginia Winners

In the history of the Virginia Lottery, countless individuals have experienced the sheer joy and life-changing moments that come with hitting the jackpot. From humble beginnings, these lottery games have turned many into millionaires overnight, altering lives with the scratch of a ticket or the drawing of numbers. Let’s take a closer look at some of the record winners who managed to snag massive windfalls, cementing their places in the Virginia Lottery hall of fame.

NameDateWin AmountGame
J. J.June 2020$10 MillionExtreme Millions
Sheelah RyanSep 1988$55.16 MillionLotto South
Steve WilliamsDec 2004$239 MillionMega Millions
Anonymous Oct 2018$3 MillionBank a Million
Richard and Angela MorrisonFeb 2006$230 MillionMega Millions

FAQ 

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

“Second Chance” on a lottery ticket indicates that you have another opportunity to win prizes by entering your non-winning ticket into a special drawing. Don’t miss out on this chance to possibly transform a losing ticket into a winning one.

Do lottery laws differ in all US states?

Absolutely. As you explore the various lotteries available across the US, you’ll notice that lottery and gambling laws can vary significantly from state to state. It’s vital that you acquaint yourself with the specific regulations like the legal gambling age and offerings of the state you’re playing in, ensuring a smooth and lawful gaming experience.

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

While you can participate in lottery games through the official Virginia Lottery website, playing them through online casinos isn’t a sanctioned option at present. It’s always recommended to stick to authorized platforms to play lottery games, ensuring your safety and adherence to state regulations.

Why do Virginia lotteries not offer fixed prizes?

In the Virginia lottery, you’ll find that fixed prizes aren’t typically offered because the winnings are often determined by the sales revenue and the number of winners in each tier, fostering a more dynamic and potentially lucrative prize pool. This structure aims to create an exhilarating and unpredictable gaming experience for you, where the anticipation builds with each ticket purchase.

Can winners of the Virginia lottery maintain their anonymity?

Yes, if you are fortunate enough to win the Virginia lottery, you have the option to maintain your anonymity. The state laws permit winners to protect their identity from the public, offering an additional layer of security and peace of mind. Make sure to clearly express your preference for anonymity when you go to claim your prize, ensuring your personal details remain confidential.

Is there an app for the Virginia lottery?

Absolutely, if you are looking to play the Virginia lottery with convenience, you’ll find an official app to facilitate this. This app, available on various mobile platforms, allows you to not only purchase tickets but also check winning numbers and scan tickets to verify if you have bagged a prize. Ensure to download it from the official Virginia lottery website or from reputable app stores to enjoy a seamless and secure gaming experience.

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