American Lottery

State lotteries are popular for a reason. Not only because they are fun, but also because they’re a source of revenue for the states. A few years ago, in 2009, the lotteries raised 17.6 billion dollars in profits for state budgets in total!

Even 11 states collected more revenue from their state lottery than the income tax. The popularity of lotteries also gives some problems. For example, it’s good for the revenue of states but advertising and funding is reduced. The advertising budgets for lotteries are not very high because of the law. Although it gives them revenue, the states are very careful with gambling. They want to prevent that too many people develop a gambling addiction.
Prohibition of lotteries in some states
In some states lotteries are prohibited.

People living in Mississippi, Alabama and Utah cannot participate in the lottery because of regulation. The Mississippi Gaming Commission also sees lotteries as a ‘competition’ for casinos in the state. They are afraid to lose sales because of it. So, it is possible to take a gamble in Mississippi, only not in the lottery.

New technologies
In the last couple of years new technologies have been introduced in lotteries.

It has made organizations like PowerBall and MegaMillions even more popular. Nowadays you play the lottery on your phone, and win the Jackpot from the comfort of your own home. Multiple lotteries organize these games as well. An overview of the several lottery games in the United States:

 

What lotteries are played in the United States?

Powerball

Powerball is one of the best known and most popular lotteries in the United States. It takes place in several states and offers huge prizes. Players choose 5 main numbers from a range of 1 to 69 and a Powerball number from a range of 1 to 26. Draws take place on mONDAY, Wednesday and Saturday. Powerball is known for its eye-catching jackpots, which often attract a lot of media attention.

Mega Millions

Mega Millions is another big national lottery similar to Powerball. Players choose 5 main numbers from a range of 1 to 70 and a superball number from a range of 1 to 25. Draws take place on Tuesday and Friday nights. Mega Millions also offers impressive jackpots and is available in several states.

State lotteries

Each state has the ability to organise and run its own lotteries. State lotteries vary in terms of game design, prizes and draw frequency. Some state lotteries draw daily or weekly, while others offer special promotions or themes for certain seasons or occasions. Lotteries with a special theme and limited duration: States sometimes organise lotteries with a special theme or temporary promotions. These campaigns range from festival scratch tickets to lotteries linked to major sporting events or cultural festivals.

Scratch tickets

Besides number lotteries, most states also offer scratch cards. Players can scratch off the thin layer of foil on these cards to see if they have won a prize. Scratch cards vary in price and prize level, and some have themes such as movies, sports teams or holidays.