Founded in 1974, the Illinois Lottery features a host of draws. Operated by Camelot Illinois, players in the state can purchase tickets daily in the hope of winning big. Meanwhile, our recommended websites offer betting on lotteries in Illinois, as well as number casino games and crypto draws.
On this Illinois lottery page, we will outline just how this method of gambling works. As well as how to buy lotto tickets, we will explain how to place bets online and withdraw winnings. We really do have everything surrounding the Illinois lotto covered!
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Best Illinois Lottery Sites
Offering alternatives to traditional lotteries in Illinois, our top ranked sites are the best platforms for lotto-related gambling. Including cryptocurrency draws, betting on the first ball drawn and lotto-style casino games, there is something for everyone. After extensive testing, it is the following sites that have made the grade:
- LuckyBlock – Our top choice for lotto Illinois!
- BetOnline – First number odd/even on official Illinois lotteries
- BetUS – Entertaining Keno games available
- Bovada – Unique “Numbers Game”
- WildCasino – American, Vegas & Megapays Keno
Quick Illinois Lottery Info
Before you purchase an Illinois lottery ticket, it is important to understand the basics. Below are some of the key areas to consider, including the legality of playing the lottery in Illinois.
Is the Lottery Legal in Illinois?
Yes. The Illinois Lottery is regulated by Camelot Illinois, a respected organization within the industry. Lotteries in Illinois date back to 1974, the year in which draws were confined to the Northeast and Midwest of the United States. Players aged 18 or over can legally purchase Illinois Lottery tickets. Interestingly, Illinois was actually the first state in the US to privatize its lottery system.
What Land-Based Illinois Lottery Games Can You Play?
A number of in-house Illinois Lottery draws take place throughout the week. Let’s take a closer look at available lotteries, including the cost of tickets and jackpots:
- Pick 3 – Illinois Lottery Pick 3 dates back to 1980. Here, three sets of balls, between 0-9, are drawn, with ticket prices and payouts varying. There are now 13 weekly Pick 3 draws, including midday options.
- Pick 4 – Launched in 1982, there are also 13 weekly Pick 4 draws in Illinois. Four sets of ten balls are drawn, with numbers 0-9 again being available. Prices and payouts also vary.
- Fireball – Fireball is another feature of Pick 3 and Illinois Lottery Pick 4 games. The feature makes it possible to form more winning number combinations. The cost of this feature is the equivalent of the player’s base bet. For example, a $0.50 Pick 3 bet will require another $0.50 bet to add Fireball.
- Lucky Day Lotto – Illinois Lucky Day lotto tickets cost $1, with players picking 5 numbers between 1-45. Those matching all five numbers will win a split of the jackpot, which starts at $100,000. An additional $1 will add the EZMatch feature, where five additional numbers are randomly assigned.
- Lotto – The Illinois Lotto costs $2 per ticket, with 6 numbers between 1-50 being selected. The minimum jackpot for matching all 6 numbers is $2 million.
- Lotto Extra Shot – This add-on to Lotto increases the price of a ticket to $3. Selecting this option will add a “quick picked” number from 1-25, increasing the potential payout in the process. The minimum jackpot is $50,000.
- Mega Millions – The first of the multi-jurisdiction lotteries in Illinois is Mega Millions. The minimum jackpot here is $15 million. Five numbers from 1-75 are selected, along with a Mega Ball from 15 numbers. Tickets cost $2, with a $3 ticket featuring a multiplier.
- Powerball – The Illinois Lottery Powerball has been an option for players since 2010. Tickets again cost $2, with a minimum jackpot of $40 million being up for grabs.
Where Can You Play the Lottery in Illinois?
Lotteries in Illinois are available both online and in–person. At licensed retailers, state and national lottery tickets can be purchased. Meanwhile, individual tickets and subscriptions to selected lotteries can also be bought online. If traditional lotto is not what you are looking for, then there are a host of more modern options. This includes betting on the lottery on sportsbooks and playing number casino games, such as Keto, Bingo and Scratchcards.
Can you Buy Lottery Tickets Online in Illinois?
Unlike in some other states, Illinois Lottery tickets can be purchased online. Simply visit the official Illinois Lotto website, with the process being quick and simple. Whether it be Illinois Lottery Cash 3, Illinois Lottery Pick 4 or Powerball, tickets can be purchased 24/7.
Other Illinois Lottery Options to Play Online
Our recommended sportsbooks and casinos offer attractive alternatives to lotteries in Illinois. On some sites, bets can be placed on whether the opening ball drawn will be odd or even. Meanwhile, and arguably offering better entertainment, virtual games can also be found, such as Keno, Bingo and Scratchcards.
What are the Advantages of Playing the Illinois Lottery Online?
It is no surprise that online lotteries in Illinois continue to attract the interest of players. Below are the main benefits of online lottery games:
- Convenience – The majority of people now prefer to operate online, rather than in-person. The same can be said of playing the lottery. With tickets being available to purchase online, bets can also be placed on lotto sportsbook markets, crypto draws and number casino games. Such bets can be placed at any time, anywhere. Simply visit your chosen lottery site and sign up.
- Quick Payouts – Winnings from the Illinois Lottery can take up to 15 days to receive. However, earnings from successful sportsbook bets or casino games will be processed significantly quicker. Depending on the payment method selected, winnings can be with you in a matter of minutes.
- Safety – Our recommended lotto sites are completely safe. With the latest technology being used to keep your personal details secure, there should be no concerns for players in this area. SSL encryption and firewalls are among the most common means of protection.
- Misplaced Tickets – Should you lose your lottery ticket purchased in-person, there is very little that you can do. However, online tickets are accessible at all times. So, players never have to worry about losing their ticket or having it stolen. Meanwhile, bets placed on lotto draws and casino games are stored virtually too.
Illinois Lottery Draw Schedule
Given the number of Illinois lotteries that now take place, there is never a time in which players are short of options. The table below provides key information surrounding lotteries in Illinois, including draw times and when ticket sales close:
Lottery Draw Days Draw Times Ticket Sales Close: Pick3/4/5 (Mid-Day) Daily 12:40 PM Mon-Sun 12:13 PM Pick 3/4/5 (Evening) Daily 9:22 PM Mon-Sun 7:41 PM Lucky Day Lotto (Mid-Day) Daily 12:40 PM Mon-Sun
8:45 PM Lucky Day Lotto (Evening) Daily 9:22 PM Illinois Lotto Monday, Thursday & Saturday 9:22 PM Mega Millions Tuesday & Friday 10:00 PM 10:45 PM Powerball Monday, Wednesday & Saturday 09:59 PM 10:00 PM All times listed are Central Daylight Time.
Where to Find Illinois Lottery Results
Illinois Lottery draws are broadcast live on selected channels. However, if you missed the live draw, results can be viewed immediately after on the Illinois Lottery website. Simply click or tap on the “Results” button at the top of the page, before locating the game in question. The Illinois Lottery mobile app is another platform in which previous results can be viewed. The app is available to download on both iOS and Android devices.
Best Illinois Online Lotteries Reviewed
It is now time to take a closer look at our top ranked Illinois lottery sites. Here, players will learn about available games, markets, bonuses and additional features.
1. LuckyBlock – Our top choice for lotto in Illinois with 200% Bonus
LuckyBlock is a brand new lottery site available to players in Illinois. Specializing in crypto games, LuckyBlock has developed its own digital currency, known as LBlock. Those with such funds to their name will be automatically entered into draws.
Meanwhile, tickets can also be purchased for $5 via the LuckyBlock mobile app, available on both iOS and Android. Many have already joined this gaming revolution, with LuckyBlock delivering a proportion of its income to charity.
What We Like:
- Automatic entry to lotto draws when acquiring LBlock
- Instant payouts
- iOS and Android mobile apps
- Hugely exciting new platform
What We Don’t Like:
- Games not yet available
2. BetOnline – First number odd/even on official Illinois lotteries
If it is betting on the lottery or number casino games you are looking for, BetOnline could well be for you. Dating back to 2004, BetOnline has long offered a host of attractive games and betting markets. Bets on Powerball and Mega Millions draws can be placed on whether the opening number will be odd or even.
Elsewhere, a generous welcome bonus awaits new players, worth 50% up to $1,000. The promo code “BOL1000” is needed in order to qualify. BetOnline is easy to use on desktop and mobile, with Keno, Bingo and Scratchcard games being visually pleasing and entertaining.
What We Like:
- Regular “Bet on Lottery” markets
- Keno casino games also available
- Easy to use site
- Generous welcome bonus
What We Don’t Like:
- Relatively low deposit/withdraw limits
3. BetUS – Host of Keno games on offer
BetUS is another offshore gambling site available to Illinois residents. While no lottery betting markets are available, a variety of Keno games cater for the needs of players instead. Tickets for such games can be purchased for as little as $0.10, with both beginners and high rollers being looked after.
Launched in 1994, BetUS has considerable experience to its name. A welcome bonus worth up to $2,500 is hugely appealing, with the bonus being broken down into both sportsbook and casino rewards.
What We Like:
- Keno tickets from just $0.10
- Various cryptocurrencies accepted
- Attractive welcome bonus
- Large jackpots
What We Don’t Like:
- No “Bet on Lottery” markets
4. Bovada – Unique “Numbers Game”
Another top site for lottery players is Bovada. With a detailed sportsbook and in-depth casino, one of Bovada’s main selling points is its unique “Numbers Game”, which is similar to the lottery in its format. On top of this, Keno Draw and Go-Go Bingo games also help to attract players.
Be sure to take full advantage of Bovada’s $3,000 welcome bonus too. Meanwhile, a rewarding VIP programme is also in place for casino players. A handful of cryptocurrencies are available for depositing and withdrawing cash, with Bovada really being an excellent all-rounder.
What We Like:
- Keno & Bingo games
- Unique Numbers Game
- Top welcome package
- Win of 100,000x your bet available
What We Don’t Like:
- No lottery ticket purchase option
5. WildCasino – American, Vegas & Megapays Keno
Despite having only been established in 2018, Wild Casino has already attracted a large number of lottery players. With Keno and Scratchcard games on offer, tickets start at just $0.10, rising to as much as $200, perfect for both beginners and high rollers. The maximum jackpot from such games is $83,000!
New players can claim a bonus of up to $5,000, while payment methods include various cryptocurrencies. Wild Casino games are accessible on all devices, despite no dedicated app being available at present.
What We Like:
- Significant Keno jackpots
- Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies accepted
- $500,000 deposit limit
- Attractive welcome package
What We Don’t Like:
- No mobile app available
More on gambling in Illinois…
Learn about all types of online gambling in Illinois in our expert guides below:
- Illinois Real Money Online Casinos
- Illinois Online Gambling
- Illinois Sports Betting Apps
- Illinois Sports Betting
- Illinois Online Poker
- Illinois Sportsbook Promos
Illinois Lottery Sites Compared
If you are still weighing up which site to sign up on, then the table below should aid the decision-making process. Below, players will find information on available bonuses and lottery games:
Lotto Site Welcome Bonus Lottery / Bet on Lottery Available Lotteries Crypto Lotto LuckyBlock 200% Bonus up to 10,000 EUR + 50 Free Spins Lottery LBLOCK Jackpot, NFT Draw ✅ BetOnline 50% deposit match up to $1,000 Bet on lottery, Lottery-style casino games Powerball ❌ BetUS 50% casino bonus up to $625 Lottery-style casino games Keno, Bingo ❌ Bovada $250 Sports welcome bonus Bet on Lottery Numbers Game ❌ Wild Casino $5,000 welcome bonus Lottery-style casino games Keno ❌ How to Claim a Illinois Lottery Prize
When looking to claim winnings from an in-house lottery in Illinois, the process will depend on the amount won. Below is a breakdown of the options available to players today:
Prizes up to $600
Licensed Illinois Lottery retailers are able to cash winning tickets up to a maximum of $600. However, some retailers will not be in a position to pay the full amount. In this event, simply complete an e-claim in order to have winnings mailed to your address instead.
Prizes from $601 to $10,000
Winners here have three possible options, coming in the form of the following:
- Arrange an in-person appointment
- Complete the claims form and provide the required documents in order to have winnings mailed to you in the form of a check.
- Complete an e-claim and attach the relevant documents. Documents include a state ID, social security card or driver’s license.
Prizes from $10,000 to $1 Million
Winners of between $10,000 to $1 million have just two options available when it comes to claiming earnings:
- Arrange an in-person appointment
- Complete the claims form and provide the required documents in order to have winnings mailed to you in the form of a check.
Prizes of Over $1 Million
Players winning $1 million or over must immediately contact the Illinois Lottery Claims Department over the phone. The number in question is (217) 524-5147.
Illinois Lottery Rules
US lottery law ranges from state to state. The following are among the most important Illinois lottery rules to consider before getting started:
Can I buy Illinois lottery tickets online?
Yes. Both individual lottery tickets and subscriptions can be purchased on the official Illinois Lottery website. The price is the same as in-person, with all transactions being processed securely.
Do I have to pay tax on lottery wins?
Yes. Both federal and state tax must be paid on lottery winnings in Illinois. The state actually recommends that winners contact a financial planner upon winning significant amounts.
How are Illinois lottery numbers picked?
All lotteries in Illinois are completely fair. Draws are never rigged, meaning that all players have an equal chance of winning.
What do I do if I lose my ticket?
Unfortunately, the state is not responsible for any lost or stolen lottery tickets. As such, there is no way of claiming winnings without your ticket.
Can I remain anonymous if I win an Illinois lotto prize?
This depends on the amount won. In the event of a player winning over $250,000, they can request that their full name and address is kept anonymous. However, winners below this amount do not have such an option.
Lottery Games Available in Illinois
Both online and in-person, players in Illinois can take advantage of a host of lottery games today. Some are only available at our recommended sites, with the following being the standout options for players:
Crypto Lottery Games
Lottery games surrounding cryptocurrencies are increasingly common. Here, tickets bought feature a unique serial number. The ticket that matches the serial number the closest is declared the winner. For crypto lottery, LuckyBlock is the latest site to check out. With their very own cryptocurrency, LBlock, the LuckyBlock mobile app makes purchasing tickets simple. Meanwhile, those with LBlock currency to their name will automatically be entered into draws.
Illinois Specific Lottery Games
The Illinois state lottery has been around since the 1970’s. Draws here take place on Monday, Thursday and Saturday, with tickets costing $2 and the jackpot being worth up to $2 million. Meanwhile, other draws take place during the week, on both a state and national level. Be sure to sign and keep your ticket in a safe place when bought in-person.
Powerball
Illinois was one of the first states to join Powerball, having done so in 2010. Illinois Powerball tickets also cost $2. However, the price rises to $3 when taking advantage of the “Power Play” feature. With a jackpot of $40 million, Powerball has long attracted players in Illinois. However, if you feel that the chances of winning the jackpot are too slim, it is worthwhile placing bets on the draw. BetOnline accepts bets on whether the first number drawn will be odd or even.
Mega Millions
Mega Millions is another national lottery available to players in Illinois. Draws are held on Tuesday and Friday, with the minimum jackpot again being $40 million. Illinois is one of the 44 Mega Millions states. However, if you are looking for an alternative, the “Numbers Game” from Bovada is worth considering. This unique game also offers significant rewards.
Tips for Playing & Betting on Lotteries in Illinois
One of the reasons as to why the Illinois Lottery remains so popular is the potential for large earnings. However, with there being no guarantees that you will win, it is important to take a number of factors into account when playing. Below are our top tips for playing and betting on lotteries in Illinois:
- Consider Available Draws – There are a large number of lottery draws available to players in Illinois today. Each is slightly different, including in terms of ticket prices and jackpots. So, weigh up which game best suits your needs.
- Bet on the Lottery – While traditional lottery games remain popular, an increasing number of players are now betting on the numbers drawn. Such markets are found on selected sportsbooks. This provides an entertaining alternative.
- Buy More than One Ticket – Your chances of winning big will increase if multiple tickets are purchased. Of course, the investment required will grow too. However, it is unlikely that you will be successful on a single ticket.
- Avoid Consecutive Numbers – It is rare that consecutive numbers make up lottery draws. So, spread your selections instead. For example, 9, 17, 26 and 32, rather than 4,5, 14, 15.
- Track Results – Ensure that you track draws as they take place. If you are unable to watch live, head online and view the numbers drawn as quickly as possible. This will mean that you can get your hands on winnings as soon as possible when successful.
Payment Methods at Illinois Lottery Sites
Lottery games in Illinois offering cash prizes require financial investment from players. As such, players operating online must select which method of payment is right for them. Payment options cater for both beginners and high rollers, with traditional and modern methods being accepted on our recommended sites. The following are the leading payment methods when playing the Illinois Lottery:
Mastercard/Visa
Credit and debit cards remain a popular choice for lottery players. Offering excellent security and speed, Mastercard and Visa cards are easily accessible today. There are no fees to worry about, with players simply having to enter their card details on their chosen site after registering.
Bitcoin
Bitcoin is unquestionably the leading cryptocurrency accepted on lottery sites today. While the likes of Ethereum, Litecoin and LBlock from LuckyBlock are also available, Bitcoin stands out from the crowd. All transfers are completed via a blockchain, offering excellent security and usability.
Skrill/Neteller
E-wallets have long been a popular option for those signing up with online casinos and lottery sites. Skrill and Neteller are associated with many operators, offering rapid deposits and withdrawals. E-wallets also deliver convenient mobile payments, via dedicated apps.
Rapid Transfer
Processed via Moneygram in most cases, Rapid Transfer payments will likely appeal to more “old school” players. However, such transfers come with a fee between 5-10%. The main selling point of Rapid Transfer is security.
Other Popular Payment Options
- Ethereum
- Litecoin
- American Express
Illinois Lottery App & Mobile Play
Given the fact that the majority of us now carry our smartphone or tablet with us at all times, it comes as no surprise that the Illinois Lottery can be played on mobile. As such, lottery sites must ensure that they are fully functional on mobile. Our recommended lotto sites have been optimized for mobile use.
However, some have taken the additional step of investing in the development of dedicated apps. Such apps, available on iOS and Android devices, are often more efficient than mobile sites. They also offer unique features, such as Touch/Face ID login and notifications. When it comes to lotteries in Illinois, the following apps will enhance your experience:
Biggest Illinois Lottery Wins
There have been plenty of lucky Illinois Lottery players over the years. In terms of the biggest wins, the table below shows the amount and date, as well as the specific lottery game:
Prize Amount Game Date $656 million Mega Millions March 30, 2012 $393 million Mega Millions August 11, 2017 $265 million Mega Millions January 16, 2015 $262 million Mega Millions June 2, 2015 $163 million Mega Millions December 18, 2007 Information accurate as of May 25, 2022
How We Choose the Best Lotto Sites
A variety of lottery sites are now available to players in Illinois. However, not all are worth signing up on. When choosing our recommended lotto sites, our experts consider the following factors:
Range of Real Money Lottery Games
The top lottery sites offer casino games, such as Keno, Bingo and Scratchcards, as well as betting on lotto markets. Crypto lottery draws are also now available. So, ensure that the type of lottery betting you are looking for is on offer before signing up.
Bonus Offers & Promotions
Casino and sportsbook bonuses help to keep players satisfied. Welcome bonuses provide a platform to build upon, while ongoing promotions aid players in maximizing winnings. While terms and conditions are involved, our top ranked lotto sites ensure that profiting from promos is realistic. So, whether you are playing Keno or placing a bet on the next Powerball draw, there is likely to be a bonus available.
Payout Methods, Transaction Speed & Fees
One of the selling points of lottery sites is that players can withdraw winnings quickly. This is in comparison to successful lottery tickets bought in-person, where it can take up to 15 days for a payout to be processed. Meanwhile, our top ranked sites offer a variety of payment methods, with no fees being involved. So, regardless of which type of lotto you are playing online, a number of options are available for depositing and withdrawing funds.
Availability for Illinois Players
There is certainly no shortage of lotto-related games available to online players in Illinois. Tickets can be purchased on the official Illinois Lottery website. Meanwhile, bets can be placed and games played at any time of day. Our recommended sites are based offshore, meaning that there is nothing stopping those in Illinois from signing up!
Safety & Security
Lottery sites must also be safe and reliable. All markets and games are trustworthy, with random number generators being used to determine results. Meanwhile, SSL encryption and firewalls help to keep your details safe at all times. Before registering, be sure to ask yourself the following questions:
- How long has the site been operating?
- Who is the operator licensed by?
- How quickly are payouts processed?
Read Our Related Pages…
Now that you know all about lotteries in Illinois, we recommend familiarizing yourself with other areas of online gambling in the United States. The pages below provide expert advice and guidance to players:
- Online lotteries – Our guide on the best lottery sites in the US
- Online casinos – Check out the best online casinos in the US
The Overall Best Illinois Lottery Site
Our Illinois Lottery guide has provided a great deal of useful information. However, if it is an alternative to traditional lotteries that you are looking for, our no.1 pick is LuckyBlock. This newly launched site is set to be something of a revolution within the industry.
With regular cryptocurrency lotteries, LuckyBlock is a modern, entertaining and rewarding platform. Whether it be on desktop or via the LuckyBlock mobile app, getting hold of your ticket is simple. So, be sure to take a closer look at LuckyBlock, along with our other recommended sites.
Lotto Illinois FAQs
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Is Illinois a Powerball state?
James Fuller
James Fuller
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