Is Illinois Part of the Lottery Powerball Game?
Powerball has quickly become one of the most beloved multi-state lottery games in North America since it first debuted in 1992, now being available in 45 states plus D.C., Puerto Rico and US Virgin Islands. Typically with jackpots that regularly surpass $900 Million. Players select five white ball numbers ranging from 1 to 69 and one red Powerball number (1 to 26), plus they may add an Extra Shot option for an additional $1 per play to increase non-jackpot prizes – tickets may be purchased from licensed retailers as well as online.
The Illinois Lottery first started operating in 1974 and quickly became a popular option among players. Since then, its offering has expanded to include various drawing games and instant tickets that players can purchase at over 7,000 retailer locations around Illinois or participate in online Powerball draws as well as other lotteries.
IL Lottery also offers several fast-play games and over 70 scratch-offs in addition to its six draw games, with most proceeds going toward supporting local and state projects, such as fighting breast cancer, providing assistance to people living with AIDS or supporting multiple sclerosis research. A portion of revenue also goes toward veterans programs or education initiatives.
No matter the state’s financial circumstances, lottery officials maintain that Illinois remains a winner. Their annual contribution to the Common School Fund supports public education from kindergarten through 12th grade; and its capital improvements program provides funds for projects from library repairs to new water and sewer systems. Furthermore, lottery revenues serve as a major source of income for state employees and contractors.
Lottery winners have up to one year to collect their prizes; however, Illinois law mandates they sign their ticket before collecting it – any unsigned tickets will be considered abandoned and sent directly to either the Common School Fund or Capital Projects Fund for distribution. If you prefer not waiting a year to collect your prize you can always request that your identity remain private by selecting that option on your claim form.
To purchase a Powerball ticket in Illinois Lottery retail outlets, visit and complete a playslip at any licensed Illinois Lottery retailer. At $2 each, you can either pick your own numbers or use Quick Pick for random lines; with Power Play added you could multiply non-jackpot winnings 2x, 3x, 4x or 5x! Furthermore you could enter 25 consecutive drawings by marking off on your slip.
Illinois Lottery also offers the Lotto game with a top prize of up to $516.7 Million! Lotto draws are held every Monday, Thursday, and Saturday night; additionally there is also the Lotto Extra Shot feature which gives you a chance at the jackpot or up to 30 smaller prizes!