🎉 California Lottery: Big Games, Bigger Dreams, and a Commitment to Education

The California State Lottery, launched in 1985 after voters approved it in 1984, has since become a powerhouse of entertainment, funding, and opportunity. Known for its wide range of draw games and multi-million-dollar jackpots, the California Lottery is a key player in public education funding and has changed the lives of countless winners along the way.

Today, the Lottery features seven main draw games:

• Daily 3 Midday & Evening – Fast-paced three-number game drawn twice a day with prizes up to $630.

• Daily 4 – A four-digit game offering prizes nearing $8,000.

• Daily Derby – A horse-racing-themed game with cash jackpots and a unique Race Time component.

• Fantasy 5 – A daily draw with jackpots starting around $40,000.

• SuperLotto Plus – California’s homegrown jackpot game with twice-weekly draws and jackpots that start at $7 million.

• Powerball & Mega Millions – Multi-state games where prizes can exceed $1 billion.

The California Lottery also sells a wide variety of Scratchers and seasonal instant-win games, making it one of the most dynamic lottery offerings in the nation.

While California does not currently allow ticket sales online or via phone, tickets can be purchased at any licensed retailer statewide. Players can buy advanced draws for all games, ranging from 7 to 20 draws depending on the game.

🧾 Claiming Your Winnings

The prize-claiming process is straightforward:

• Prizes up to $599: Redeem at any retailer, at a claim center, or by mail.

• Prizes $600 or more: Claim in person at one of California’s Lottery District Offices or by mail. Same-day check processing is available for amounts up to $1,000 (until 4:30 p.m.).

Claims can be submitted to: California State Lottery
730 North 10th Street
Sacramento, CA 95811

Players must claim most prizes within 180 days of the draw date. Powerball and Mega Millions jackpot prizes have a 1-year deadline.

💸 Taxes on Winnings

Unlike many other states, California does not withhold state income tax from lottery prizes. However:

• Federal tax of 24% is withheld on winnings over $5,000.

• Non-U.S. residents face a federal withholding of 30%.

🕵️ Anonymity and Disclosure

California does not permit lottery winners to remain anonymous. Your name, winning amount, retailer location, and draw date become part of the public record. For larger wins, legal professionals may help establish a trust to maintain a layer of privacy when claiming.

📚 Where the Money Goes

The California Lottery commits 87% of every dollar spent to public benefit—prizes, retailer commissions, and most importantly, education. Since its launch, the lottery has generated billions in supplemental funding for California’s K-12 public schools, community colleges, and state universities.

FAQ: ❓ California Lottery

1. Can I buy California Lottery tickets online or by phone?

No. Tickets must be purchased from licensed retailers only.

2. What games can I play in California?

Daily 3, Daily 4, Daily Derby, Fantasy 5, SuperLotto Plus, Powerball, and Mega Millions.

3. Can I remain anonymous if I win?

No. California law requires lottery winners’ identities and winnings to be public, although claiming via a legal trust may help with some privacy.

4. Are lottery winnings taxed?

Yes, but only federally. Winnings over $5,000 are subject to 24% federal withholding. California does not withhold state tax.

5. How long do I have to claim a prize?

180 days for most games, but 1 year for Powerball and Mega Millions jackpots.

6. What is the minimum age to play?

You must be 18 years or older to purchase and redeem tickets.

7. What happens if I lose my ticket?

Lost or stolen tickets cannot be replaced. Sign your ticket as soon as you purchase it to help prove ownership.

8. Can I buy tickets in advance?

Yes. You can purchase up to 7–20 draws in advance depending on the game.

9. What are California’s state-only jackpot games?

SuperLotto Plus, Daily Derby, Fantasy 5, Daily 3, and Daily 4 are all exclusive to California.

10. What are the claim options for $600+ prizes?

Prizes can be claimed by mail or in person at any California Lottery District Office.

11. Can I claim my prize through a trust?

Yes. Consult a legal advisor—trusts are allowed and may offer some anonymity benefits.

12. Where does lottery money go?

A large portion funds California public education, from K-12 schools to state colleges.