In December 2011, the US Department of Justice handed down an opinion stating the Federal Wire Act, which prohibits certain types of gambling, only applied to sports betting. The opportunity for state-operated online lotteries opened up as a result.
Six US states now offer some form of online lottery where players can log on, make a purchase, and play instant games and national draw lotteries, in addition to Keno games and scratch-offs.
The legal requirements and available games vary from state to another, and so do the bonuses available to new players.
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Michigan
Introduced in 2014, the Michigan Online Lottery has quickly grown to offer a vast range of games.
It is only open to Michigan residents aged 18 or over, and players must be located within state borders.
The registration process is similar to other US online lotteries. When registering, potential players must pass a verification process which requires the submission of a name, address, date of birth, and a valid ID, such as a driver’s license. Additionally, potential players must provide the final four digits of their social security number.
The online offering includes:
- 59+ instant games
- Keno
- Mega Millions
- Powerball
- Lotto 47
- Fantasy 5
Deposit methods include:
- Credit/debit cards
- Bank transfers
- PayPal and Neteller
- Michigan Lottery online game cards
Withdrawals are processed using bank transfers, PayPal and Neteller, and debit cards. Credit card withdrawals are not supported.
The Michigan lottery offers a dedicated mobile app and an attractive welcome bonus.
Pennsylvania
Launching in May 2018, the Pennsylvania Online Lottery is available to anyone aged 18 or over, located within state borders, and willing to provide a name, address, date of birth, an ID scan, and SSN. Players don’t have to be a resident of the state to play.
The online offering includes 14+ instant games.
Players can make deposits using debit cards, ACH e-checks, and with 7-Eleven’s PayNearMe slips. Withdrawals can only be processed using ACH.
A welcome bonus and a dedicated app are available.
Illinois
The Illinois Online Lottery was the first to launch, back in March 2012.
Those who wish to play the Illinois iLottery must be at least 18 years of age, an Illinois resident, and be physically located within state borders at the time of ticket purchase. When registering, the website requires a potential player’s full name, address, date of birth, and the final four digits of their SSN.
Illinois’ online offering includes:
- 30+ instant games
- Mega Millions
- Powerball
- Lucky Day Lotto
Deposits can be made using credit and debit cards only, and withdrawals are processed through direct bank deposits and checks.
Georgia
Georgia was the second state to offer an online lottery, launching in November 2012.
Potential players of the Georgia Online Lottery must be 18 or older and residents of Georgia. During registration, players need to provide their name, date of birth, and entire social security number. Georgia residents can play when located outside of the state’s border.
The state’s online offering includes:
- 37+ instant games
- Keno
- Mega Millions
- Powerball
- Fantasy 5
Deposits and withdrawals can be made using the lottery’s iHOPE Discover prepaid card.
Kentucky
It wasn’t until April 2016 when the Kentucky Online Lottery launched. To qualify, players must be 18 years of age or over and provide a name, address, date of birth, valid ID, and the last four digits of their social security number. Players must also be residents and located in Kentucky to participate.
The online offering includes:
- 37+ instant games
- Keno
- Powerball
- Mega Millions
- Cash Ball 225
- Lucky For Life
Deposits can be made using VISA and Mastercard credit and debit cards, as well as iFunds purchased at a licensed Kentucky lottery retailer. Withdrawal methods include a direct bank deposit and check by courier.
New Hampshire
Although New Hampshire’s state legislature legalized the creation of a state-mandated online lottery when they passed Bill H517 on June 22, 2017, it has not yet launched. We expect to see online functionality for New Hampshire’s lottery towards the end of 2018 or early 2019.
For the time being, players are allowed to purchase three, six, and 12-month subscriptions for Powerball, Mega Millions, Lucky For Life, and Tri-state Megabucks. Purchases can be made using credit and debit cards.
In the meantime, New Hampshire’s lottery can be played the old-fashioned way, by purchasing tickets in-person at participating retailers.