🎟️ Connecticut Lottery: Classic Play Meets Online Convenience

The Connecticut Lottery has been a trusted source of games, excitement, and public funding since 1972. With over 50 years of gaming history, the state lottery continues to evolve—now offering digital access to several games while maintaining the excitement of traditional play. From quick-pick dailies to life-changing jackpots, the Connecticut Lottery is where possibility meets progress.

Unlike many other states, Connecticut allows players to purchase tickets online for games like Keno, Play3, Play4, Cash5, Lotto!, Lucky for Life, Powerball, and Mega Millions—either through the official CT Lottery website or mobile app. This puts Connecticut at the forefront of the U.S. digital lottery wave, giving players secure access to ticket purchases from the comfort of their homes.

The state also continues to support in-person ticket sales at retailers across Connecticut, offering a lineup of popular draw games:

• Play3 and Play4 (Day and Night) with top prizes of $500 and $5,000.

• Cash5, with daily draws and a top prize of $100,000.

• Lotto!, Connecticut’s classic six-number jackpot game with prizes starting at $1 million.

• Multi-state jackpots like Powerball and Mega Millions, known for jackpots reaching hundreds of millions.

• Lucky for Life, offering $1,000 a day for life.

Players can take advantage of advanced draw options, with up to 26 consecutive plays available for most games. This ensures you won’t miss a draw, and the convenience of digital play makes staying in the game even easier.

When it comes to claiming prizes, Connecticut makes it simple:

• Prizes $599 or less can be claimed at retailers or by mail.

• $600 to $5,000 can be claimed at high-tier claim centers, headquarters, or by mail.

• $5,001 to $49,999 must be claimed at headquarters or by mail.

• $50,000 or more must be claimed in person at CT Lottery Headquarters in Wallingford.

For taxes, Connecticut withholds 6.99% state tax on certain winnings, and the IRS takes 24% federal tax on amounts over $5,000 (or 30% for non-U.S. citizens). Winnings of $600 or more and at least 300x the wager are subject to reporting and possible withholding.

The Connecticut Lottery’s profits go to the state’s General Fund, which supports human services, education, healthcare, conservation, and more—making every ticket a small investment in the future of the state.

While Connecticut does not allow anonymity for most winners, exceptions exist for those with protective orders or part of the Address Confidentiality Program. Legal trusts may also be an option to shield identity—consult a lawyer for guidance.

Thanks to forward-thinking policy, Connecticut offers one of the most digitally accessible lottery experiences in the country. Whether you’re chasing daily wins or dreaming big, the Connecticut Lottery puts the power to play—literally—in your hands.

FAQ: ❓ Connecticut Lottery 

1. Can I buy Connecticut Lottery tickets online?

Yes! You can play games like Keno, Play3, Play4, Cash5, Lotto!, Powerball, Mega Millions, and Lucky for Life online through the official website or app.

2. What games can I play in Connecticut?

Play3, Play4, Cash5, Lotto!, Keno, Powerball, Mega Millions, and Lucky for Life.

3. How many draws can I purchase in advance?

Up to 7 draws for Play3 and Play4, and up to 26 draws for Cash5, Lotto!, Lucky for Life, Powerball, and Mega Millions.

4. How do I claim my prize?

Prizes under $600: claim at retailers or by mail.
$600–$5,000: high-tier claim center, headquarters, or mail.
$5,001–$49,999: claim at headquarters or by mail.
$50,000+: in person at headquarters only.

5. What’s the tax withholding policy?

Over $5,000: 6.99% state + 24% federal = 30.99% total.
Non-U.S. residents: 6.99% state + 30% federal = 36.99% total.

6. Can I remain anonymous if I win?

Not usually. CT law requires the winner’s name, city, and prize to be public. Exceptions apply for participants in the Address Confidentiality Program or with protective orders.

7. What happens if my ticket is lost or stolen?

Tickets can’t be replaced. Always sign the back of your ticket to prove ownership.

8. How long do I have to claim my winnings?

You have 180 days from the draw date to claim your prize.

9. Are winnings reported to the IRS?

Yes. Winnings over $600 and 300x the wager amount are reported and may be subject to withholding.

10. Can minors play the lottery?

No. Players must be 18 or older to purchase or claim lottery tickets.

11. Where do lottery funds go in Connecticut?

Proceeds go to the General Fund, supporting education, human services, hospitals, and public works.

12. Can I claim through a trust?

Yes, consult a lawyer. Legal trusts may allow some privacy when claiming large prizes.