Multi-State Games
2024 STRATEGIES
Games and Advanced Draws
The main lottery games you can play in Illinois, click a link for results and more information.
GAME | PRIZE | NUMBER FORMAT | ADVANCED DRAWS |
---|---|---|---|
Pick 3 (Midday) | Fixed | 3 (from 0-9) | up to 7 |
Pick 3 (Evening) | Fixed | 3 (from 0-9) | up to 7 |
Pick 4 (Midday) | Fixed | 4 (from 0-9) | up to 7 |
Pick 4 (Evening) | Fixed | 4 (from 0-9) | up to 7 |
Lucky Day Lotto (Midday) | Jackpot | 5 (from 1-45) | up to 25 |
Lucky Day Lotto (Evening) | Jackpot | 5 (from 1-45) | up to 25 |
Lotto | Jackpot | 6 (from 1-50) | up to 25 |
Lotto Million 1 | Jackpot | 6 (from 1-50) | up to 25 |
Lotto Million 2 | Jackpot | 6 (from 1-50) | up to 25 |
Mega Millions | Jackpot | 5 (from 1-70) + 1 (from 1-25) | up to 25 |
Powerball | Jackpot | 5 (from 1-69) + 1 (from 1-26) | up to 25 |
Games Overview
Pick 3
Prizes are awarded for different combinations of numbers including straight, box, and straight/box plays. With multiple play options and varying prize levels players have a chance to win by selecting three numbers from 0 to 9.
Pick 4
Choose four numbers from 0 to 9 and a play type including straight, box, straight/box and more. The game gives players the opportunity to win prizes based on their chosen numbers and play style.
Lucky Day Lotto
A daily draw game where players select five numbers from a field of 45. With two ways to win players can match all five numbers for the jackpot or match fewer numbers to win smaller prizes.
Lotto
A classic Illinois Lottery game where players select six numbers from a pool of 52. Matching all six numbers guarantees the jackpot prize which can accumulate to substantial amounts.
Mega Millions
A widely recognized multi-state lottery game that Illinois participates in where players choose five numbers from a pool and a Mega Ball number for a chance to win massive jackpots.
Powerball
Players select five main numbers and a Powerball number to participate with enormous jackpots and secondary prizes. Powerball draws held multiple times a week.
Game Schedule Times
Never miss a draw again with all the Illinois lottery draw times. Shown in local time and Sales Stop in ().
GAME | SUN | MON | TUE | WED | THU | FRI | SAT |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Pick 3 (Midday) | 12:40 p.m. (12:35 p.m.) |
12:40 p.m. (12:35 p.m.) |
12:40 p.m. (12:35 p.m.) |
12:40 p.m. (12:35 p.m.) |
12:40 p.m. (12:35 p.m.) |
12:40 p.m. (12:35 p.m.) |
12:40 p.m. (12:35 p.m.) |
Pick 3 (Evening) | 9:22 p.m. (9:15 p.m.) |
9:22 p.m. (9:15 p.m.) |
9:22 p.m. (9:15 p.m.) |
9:22 p.m. (9:15 p.m.) |
9:22 p.m. (9:15 p.m.) |
9:22 p.m. (9:15 p.m.) |
9:22 p.m. (9:15 p.m.) |
Pick 4 (Midday) | 12:40 p.m. (12:35 p.m.) |
12:40 p.m. (12:35 p.m.) |
12:40 p.m. (12:35 p.m.) |
12:40 p.m. (12:35 p.m.) |
12:40 p.m. (12:35 p.m.) |
12:40 p.m. (12:35 p.m.) |
12:40 p.m. (12:35 p.m.) |
Pick 4 (Evening) | 9:22 p.m. (9:15 p.m.) |
9:22 p.m. (9:15 p.m.) |
9:22 p.m. (9:15 p.m.) |
9:22 p.m. (9:15 p.m.) |
9:22 p.m. (9:15 p.m.) |
9:22 p.m. (9:15 p.m.) |
9:22 p.m. (9:15 p.m.) |
Lucky Day Lotto (Midday) | 12:40 p.m. (12:35 p.m.) |
12:40 p.m. (12:35 p.m.) |
12:40 p.m. (12:35 p.m.) |
12:40 p.m. (12:35 p.m.) |
12:40 p.m. (12:35 p.m.) |
12:40 p.m. (12:35 p.m.) |
12:40 p.m. (12:35 p.m.) |
Lucky Day Lotto (Evening) | 9:22 p.m. (9:15 p.m.) |
9:22 p.m. (9:15 p.m.) |
9:22 p.m. (9:15 p.m.) |
9:22 p.m. (9:15 p.m.) |
9:22 p.m. (9:15 p.m.) |
9:22 p.m. (9:15 p.m.) |
9:22 p.m. (9:15 p.m.) |
Lotto | 9:22 p.m. (9:15 p.m.) |
9:22 p.m. (9:15 p.m.) |
9:22 p.m. (9:15 p.m.) |
||||
Mega Millions | 10:00 p.m. (9:45 p.m.) |
10:00 p.m. (9:45 p.m.) |
|||||
Powerball | 9:59 p.m. (9:00 p.m.) |
9:59 p.m. (9:00 p.m.) |
9:59 p.m. (9:00 p.m.) |
How to Buy Illinois Lottery Tickets
Ticket prices can vary across the NJ lottery games so here's a guide. Be sure too look for the lottery logo on participating stores when purchasing.
GAME | COST TO PLAY |
---|---|
Pick 3 | $0.50 - $5 |
Pick 4 | $0.50 - $5 |
Lucky Day Lotto | $1 |
Lotto | $2 |
Mega Millions | $2 (+$1 optional Megaplier) |
Powerball | $2 |
Note: You will need to be over the age of 18 to buy a ticket and claim a prize.
How to Claim Illinois Lottery Prizes
Claim up to $600 win or free plays
- Method 1 – Visit your nearest retailer to claim instantly over the counter.
- Method 2 – Find your closest official claim center and visit to claim.
- Method 3 – Visit the Illinois Lottery website to file an E-Claim online.
Claim over $500 win
- Method 1 – Visit the most convenient Claim Center near you in person.
- Method 2 – Complete a claim form and mail it along with your signed ticket and ID.
- Method 3 – E-Claim your prize on the official Illinois Lottery website.
Claim over $10,000,000 - $1,000,000 win
- Method 1 – Visit a Claim Center from the directory and complete a claim form
- Method 2 – Complete a prize claim form and mail it to the Illinois Lottery along with relevant ID and your signed ticket.
Claim over $1,000,000 win
- Method 1 – You need to call the Illinois Lottery Claims Department on (217) 524-5147 to discuss your options and book an appointment to be seen.
Claim Center & Claim Form
Download a claim form and a copy of a valid ID, then send to or visit:
Illinois Lottery Claims Department
P.O. Box 19080
Springfield, Illinois 62794-9912
Phone: +1 217 524-5147
Open: Mon - Fri, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Web: www.illinoislottery.com
All Illinois Claim Centers
Tips and Strategies
There are many ways to play and win with the IL Lottery. Here are a few practical tips and strategies that could enhance your chances of winning while ensuring a more enjoyable experience.
- Strategic Selection: When it comes to choosing between a lump sum payout and an annuity be sure to understand the pros and cons of each option.
- Online Ease: Embrace the convenience of online ticket purchases whenever available.
- Prompt Prize Claim: Don't miss out on your prize! Remember to claim your winnings within the specified timeframe.
- Diverse Number Choices: Expand your winning possibilities by avoiding predictable number sequences like birthdays. Broaden your number selection horizon for more diverse combinations.
- Post-Win Advantage: After a big win ticket sales surge leading to even larger jackpots. Leverage this trend for potentially bigger rewards in subsequent draws.
- Odds Awareness: Familiarize yourself with the odds of each game as this knowledge will not only heighten your chances of winning but also enhance the thrill of playing.
- Pattern Exploration: Analyzing historical winning numbers and patterns can refine your number choices.
- Stay Updated: Keep abreast of special promotions as these offers can add an extra chance of winning.
- Mindful Play: Set a budget that aligns with your comfort level ensuring that your lottery play remains a form of entertainment.
- Time Management: Avoid excessive play by setting time and frequency limits. Responsible play guarantees a healthy and controlled lottery experience.
- Balanced Investment: Consider higher-priced tickets which often come with improved odds for substantial prizes.
- Game Variety: Each game presents unique odds and gameplay injecting a fresh dimension into your lottery journey.
- Positive Outlook: Approach each ticket purchase with optimism and remember that every ticket holds the potential for a win.
- Second Chances: Engage in second-chance drawings for non-winning tickets and transform a losing ticket into a winning opportunity.
- Prize Tiers Mastery: Familiarize yourself with the prize tiers of each game.
Recent Illinois Lottery Winners' Stories
You could soon be joining the ever-growing list of IL Lottery success stories. Here are just a few recent examples of people winning big:
- $20,000 - Mega Millions - Montgomery:
Shawn won the sizeable amount on the multi-state Mega Millions draw after playing $20 a month towards the bigger jackpot amounts which is a tip he recommends others do. - $2,000 - Pick 3 - Mokena:
Frankie won on the popular Pick 3 game and had some simple advice for others "You can't win if you don't play". Crediting his girlfriend as his lucky charm this win was a welcome bonus. - $25,000 - Pick 4 - Chicago:
Rodrigo visited his local neighbourhoood BP gas station to play the popular Pick 4 game. Upon finding out he had won he immediately told his wife who was in the same room. - $173,000 - Illinois Jackpot - Mokena:
Jenell won this incredible amount after visiting the corner store which is her favorite lottery retailer. She immeidately shared the good news with her husband sitting next to her. - $1,500 - Pick 4 - Willowbrook:
Laura doesn't have a preferred lottery retailer and plays everywhere she gets the chance which paid off with her Pick 4 numbers. She immediately shared the good news with her daughter.
Lottery Tax Guide
IL state taxes apply to all winnigns over $1,000 regardless of residency or citizenship. Federal taxes do vary according to prize amount and residency and the table below explains this in detail.
PRIZE/RESIDENCY | STATE TAX | FEDERAL TAX | TOTAL TAX |
---|---|---|---|
$1,000 - $5,000 U.S. Citizens & Residents |
4.95% | 0% | 4.95% |
More than $5,000 U.S. Citizens & Residents |
4.95% | 24% | 28.95% |
$600 - $1,000 Non-U.S. Citizens & Residents |
0% | 30% | 30% |
More than $1,000 Non-U.S. Citizens & Residents |
4.95% | 30% | 34.95% |
Please Note: All prizes over the value of $600 are reported to the IRS.
About Illinois Lottery
The Illinois Lottery has been an integral part of the state's gaming landscape since its inception offering exciting opportunities for residents to engage in games of chance and win prizes.
History
- July 1974 - The Illinois Lottery is established with the passage of the Illinois Lottery Law.
- February 1975 - The inaugural draw is held.
- March 1975 - The first instant tickets are introduced.
- February 1983 - IL joins the multistate lottery game Lotto America (Powerball).
- October 1985 - The first Lotto drawing takes place.
- March 1989 - Its own in-state jackpot game "Little Lotto" is introduced.
- April 1990 - The "Illinois Instant Riches" game is launched.
- March 1992 - Mega Millions becomes available to play.
- October 2011 - The launch of its official website.
- March 2012 - The first raffle game "St. Patrick's Day Millionaire Raffle" debuts.
- March 2014 - Commemorates its 40th anniversary with special promotions and events.
- March 2020 - Players can now purchase tickets online.
- August 2021 - The launch of the Lucky Day Lotto "Jackpot Bonus" feature.
Charitable Contributions
With the motto "For Fun, For Education" the Illinois Lottery has played a significant role in supporting the state's educational initiatives and public projects.
Since its establishment it has contributed over $21 billion to the Common School Fund which supports K-12 public education across the state. These funds help enhance classroom resources, provide educational opportunities and invest in the future of Illinois students.
The contributions extend beyond education as it has also played a part in funding special causes, community projects and vital state services further enriching the lives of residents.
Location and Unique Features
Illinois is located in the Midwest region of the United States. It is bordered by Wisconsin to the north, Indiana to the east, Kentucky to the southeast, Missouri to the west and Iowa to the northwest.
The state is renowned for its diverse landscapes which include sprawling farmlands, urban centers and the majestic Great Lakes. Illinois is famous for iconic landmarks such as the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower) in Chicago, the picturesque Navy Pier and the historic Route 66.