You can play the lottery online legally in the U.S. through licensed state platforms or trusted courier services. States like Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Illinois allow direct online ticket purchases, while others use authorized couriers such as Jackpocket to deliver official tickets from local retailers.
Below, we’ll explain how it works, which states are legal, and how to stay safe when playing online.
What is online lottery play?
Online lottery play lets you buy draw tickets (like Powerball or Mega Millions) and instant win games from your phone or computer instead of a retail store.
You can either:
- Buy directly from a state-run lottery site, or
- Use a licensed courier app, which purchases physical tickets on your behalf.
All winnings are credited to your account automatically, and smaller prizes are paid out instantly.
Step-by-step: how to play lottery online
Here’s a quick overview of how to play online in the USA:
| Step | What to Do | Example |
| 1. Check legality | Confirm your state allows online lottery purchases. | e.g., Michigan, Pennsylvania, Illinois |
| 2. Choose a licensed site | Visit your official state lottery site or an approved courier. | Michigan Lottery, Jackpocket |
| 3. Create an account | Verify your age (18+) and location with ID or geolocation. | Simple one-time KYC check |
| 4. Deposit funds | Add money using debit, ACH, or PayPal. | Most sites have $5–$10 minimum |
| 5. Pick your numbers | Choose manually or use “Quick Pick” for random numbers. | Powerball, Mega Millions, state draws |
| 6. Confirm purchase | Review and submit your ticket before cutoff time. | Confirmation receipt emailed instantly |
| 7. Wait for the draw | Watch results live or get notified automatically. | Winning numbers updated in-app |
It’s that simple. No paper tickets, no lines, and no risk of losing your entry.
Where is online lottery play legal in the U.S.?
As of today, legal online lottery sales are available in the following states:
| State | Direct Online Sales | Courier Option |
| Michigan | ✅ Yes | ✅ Jackpocket |
| Pennsylvania | ✅ Yes | ✅ Jackpocket |
| Illinois | ✅ Yes | ✅ Jackpocket |
| Georgia | ✅ Yes | ✅ Jackpocket |
| Kentucky | ✅ Yes | ✅ Jackpocket |
| Virginia | ✅ Yes | ✅ Jackpocket |
| New York | ❌ No | ✅ Jackpocket |
| Texas | ❌ No | ✅ Jackpocket |
| New Jersey | ❌ No | ✅ Jackpocket |
| Ohio | ❌ No | ✅ Jackpocket |
If your state isn’t listed, you can still use a licensed courier app like Jackpocket in select regions.
What lotteries can you play online?
Most legal sites and courier apps offer access to major multi-state draws and local games, including:
- Powerball (multi-state jackpot)
- Mega Millions
- Lotto America
- Cash4Life
- Lucky for Life
- Pick 3 / Pick 4 (state-specific)
- Instant win games (digital scratch-offs)
Each game has different odds, jackpot structures, and ticket prices, typically starting from $1 per play.
Are online lottery sites safe?
Yes, if you play through licensed and regulated operators. Look for the following safety checks before depositing:
✅ Display of your state lottery logo
✅ 18+ age verification
✅ Secure payments via debit or ACH
✅ Account-based prize collection (no third-party handling)
✅ Responsible gaming tools and limits
Never buy tickets from offshore or unlicensed websites because they’re not authorized to sell real U.S. lottery entries.
For verified options, see Lottery Critic’s online lottery reviews.
What are online lottery courier apps?
Courier apps act as middlemen that buy physical tickets from authorized retailers on your behalf.
You choose your numbers online, and they scan and store the ticket securely.
If you win, small prizes are credited directly, while larger jackpots are claimed on your behalf or in person.
The most trusted options include:
- Jackpocket (official partner in over 15 states)
- TheLotter (international lotteries and U.S. access)
- Lotto.com (fully digital ticketing platform)
How to claim lottery winnings online
If you win a prize online, here’s what happens:
| Prize Amount | How You’re Paid |
| Up to $600 | Automatically credited to your account |
| $601–$5,000 | Processed after ID verification |
| Over $5,000 | Claimed through your state lottery office (you’ll be notified and guided through it) |
For multi-state draws like Powerball or Mega Millions, jackpots must be claimed according to the originating state’s rules.
Can you play Powerball or Mega Millions online?
Yes. Powerball and Mega Millions tickets can be purchased online in participating states or through approved couriers like Jackpocket and Lotto.com.
You can even subscribe to recurring draws so you never miss an entry.
Tips for safe and smart online lottery play
- Set limits: Decide your spend before buying tickets.
- Stick to licensed sites: Always verify your operator.
- Avoid scams: Never share payment info outside secure checkout.
- Use auto-check: Enable results notifications to track winnings.
- Play responsibly: The lottery should always be fun, not stressful.
The bottom line
Playing the lottery online is easy, legal, and safe when you use regulated U.S. platforms or approved couriers.
You’ll enjoy the same games and jackpots as in-store players with added convenience and instant notifications.