🎟️ South Carolina Lottery: Big Wins, Big Dreams, Big Education Impact
South Carolina has long held a spot in the hearts of lottery players thanks to its powerful lineup of draw games, legendary wins, and its unwavering commitment to education. Since the South Carolina Education Lottery launched in 2002, it has offered a thrilling mix of opportunities to win life-changing prizes while also making a difference across the state.
South Carolina Lottery players can participate in several popular draw games, including Pick 3 (Midday & Evening), Pick 4 (Midday & Evening), CASH POP, Palmetto Cash 5, Powerball, and Mega Millions. From quick $250 and $500 wins in daily games to multimillion-dollar jackpots in national games, South Carolina caters to every type of player.
One of the most talked-about moments in South Carolina lottery history came in 2018, when a local player won the $1.57 billion Mega Millions jackpot—the largest in U.S. history at the time. Even more remarkable? The winner chose to remain anonymous, a legal right granted to South Carolina players and a rare benefit in the U.S. lottery landscape.
Daily draw games like Pick 3 and Pick 4 offer multiple chances each day to win up to $500 or $5,000, respectively. Games like CASH POP, where a single number between 1 and 15 could earn you $250, bring something fresh and fast-paced to the lineup.
For players dreaming bigger, Palmetto Cash 5 offers top prizes starting around $100,000, while Powerball and Mega Millions jackpots climb into the tens or hundreds of millions.
Although online sales aren’t yet legal in South Carolina, players can buy tickets in advance for up to 40 consecutive draws for games like Palmetto Cash 5 and up to 30 for Powerball, offering plenty of flexibility and control.
Claiming prizes is straightforward. Winnings of $500 or less can be claimed at any retailer. Prizes above that threshold require a visit to the South Carolina Education Lottery Headquarters or can be mailed in with proper documentation. Just remember, prizes over $100,000 must be claimed in person.
The lottery also withholds taxes. Winnings from $500 to $5,000 are taxed at 6.5% state, while winnings over $5,000 face a combined 30.5% tax (including 24% federal).
In terms of impact, the South Carolina Education Lottery lives up to its name. Proceeds from ticket sales have funded billions in scholarships, K-12 programs, and workforce development initiatives. So when you play, you’re not just chasing your dreams—you’re helping others build theirs.
With draws happening daily, exciting game formats, and the option to remain anonymous, it’s easy to see why the South Carolina Lottery is one of the most respected systems in the country.
FAQ: South Carolina Lottery
1. What games can I play in South Carolina?
Pick 3, Pick 4, CASH POP (Midday and Evening), Palmetto Cash 5, Powerball, and Mega Millions.
2. Can I stay anonymous if I win a big prize?
Yes! South Carolina law allows lottery winners to remain anonymous—one of the few states to do so.
3. Can I buy lottery tickets online or by phone?
No. South Carolina lottery tickets must be purchased in person from licensed retailers.
4. How old do I have to be to play?
You must be at least 18 years old to play or redeem any South Carolina Lottery ticket.
5. How long do I have to claim my prize?
You have 180 days from the date of the draw to claim any prize.
6. What taxes are withheld from winnings?
From $500 to $5,000: 6.5% state tax.
Over $5,000: 6.5% state + 24% federal tax = 30.5% total.
7. What if I lose or damage my ticket?
Unfortunately, lost or damaged tickets cannot be replaced or claimed. Always sign the back of your ticket as soon as you buy it.
8. Can I play for multiple draws in advance?
Yes! Most games allow advance play—up to 14 draws for Pick 3 and Pick 4, 6 for CASH POP, 40 for Palmetto Cash 5, and 30 for Powerball.
9. How do I claim my winnings?
Small wins can be claimed at retailers. Larger prizes must be claimed by mail or at the lottery headquarters in Columbia.
10. Where do lottery proceeds go?
Funds from ticket sales support education—college scholarships, K-12 programs, and job training initiatives statewide.
11. Are South Carolina Lottery winnings reported to the IRS?
Yes. Winnings over $600 are reported, and those over $5,000 are subject to federal withholding.
12. Is there a limit to how many tickets I can buy?
No specific limit exists, but responsible play is encouraged. Play what you can afford to lose.
