🎯 Arizona Lottery: Classic Games, Desert Jackpots, and a Push Toward Digital Future

The Arizona Lottery has been bringing excitement and opportunity to Arizonans since 1981, becoming the first state west of the Mississippi to launch a state-run lottery. With a range of draw games, multi-million dollar jackpots, and a mission to fund essential state programs, it continues to be a key player in Arizona’s public service and entertainment landscape.

Currently, all Arizona Lottery tickets must be purchased in person from authorized retailers. Online ticket sales are not yet permitted, although players can use the Arizona Lottery website or app to check results, locate retailers, and stay updated on draw times and promotions.

Arizona offers an exciting mix of in-state and multi-state games, including:

• Pick 3 – a fast-paced daily game with a $500 top prize.

• Fantasy 5 – daily draws with jackpots starting around $50,000.

• Triple Twist – unique 3-line play for just $2, with jackpots starting at $200,000.

• The Pick – Arizona’s signature game with jackpots starting at $1 million.

• Powerball and Mega Millions – national giants with record-breaking jackpots.

Game draws occur every evening between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM local time. Advance purchases are available for most games—up to 10 or 12 consecutive draws, depending on the game.

Claiming prizes in Arizona is convenient and offers multiple methods:

• Prizes $599 or less can be claimed at retailers, by mail, or by drop box at Phoenix or Tucson claim centers.

• $600 to $49,999 must be claimed in person at a claim center, by mail, or via drop box.

• Over $49,999 must be claimed in person or via drop box at lottery offices, or by mail.

Prizes must be claimed within 180 days of the draw date. Expired tickets are non-redeemable.

When it comes to taxes, the Arizona Lottery withholds 4.8% state tax and 24% federal tax on winnings of $600 or more (for U.S. citizens). For non-U.S. citizens, tax withholding increases to 6% state and 30% federal.

One unique feature of the Arizona Lottery is its winner anonymity policy:

• Winners of $600 or more remain anonymous for 90 days.

• Winners of $100,000 or more can remain anonymous indefinitely. However, the winner’s city and county of residence may be made public. Also, blind trusts are not allowed to claim winnings in Arizona.

Beyond big jackpots, lottery funds support a wide range of state initiatives. Since its launch, the Arizona Lottery has contributed millions of dollars annually to programs including:

• Public health and education

• Wildlife conservation

• Homeless shelters

• Arizona’s General Fund

While Arizona does not currently allow online ticket purchases, growing national adoption of digital lottery platforms suggests a shift could come in the near future. For now, players should continue to purchase tickets from authorized retail outlets across the state.

FAQ: ❓ Arizona Lottery

1. Can I buy lottery tickets online in Arizona?

No. Arizona does not currently permit online lottery ticket purchases. All tickets must be bought in person from a licensed retailer.

2. What games can I play?

Pick 3, Fantasy 5, Triple Twist, The Pick, Powerball, and Mega Millions.

3. How old do I have to be to play?

You must be 21 or older to purchase or redeem Arizona Lottery tickets.

4. Can I buy tickets in advance?

Yes. Depending on the game, you can buy up to 10 or 12 draws in advance.

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

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

6. How do I claim a prize?

Prizes under $600: at retailers, by mail, or drop box.
$600–$49,999: claim center, mail, or drop box.
Over $49,999: claim in person, by drop box, or by mail.

7. What are the tax rates for Arizona Lottery prizes?

For U.S. residents: 4.8% state + 24% federal = 28.8%
For non-residents: 6% state + 30% federal = 36%

8. Can I stay anonymous if I win?

Yes, partially.

• Winnings of $600+: anonymous for 90 days.

• $100,000+: you can stay anonymous forever, though city/county are public.

9. What happens if I lose my ticket?

Tickets are bearer instruments—whoever holds it can claim it. Always sign the back of your ticket to prove ownership.

10. Are blind trusts allowed to claim prizes?

No. Arizona prohibits blind trusts from claiming prizes.

11. What happens to unclaimed prizes?

They are returned to the state to support public programs and additional games.

12. Where does the Arizona Lottery money go?

Proceeds benefit homeless programs, public health, wildlife conservation, education, and other state-supported causes.