Texas Lottery Online

History of the Texas Lottery

In 1991, following the approval of a constitutional amendment, Texas voters designated the Texas Lottery as the exclusive lawful form of gambling within the state.

Starting in May 1992, the sale of lottery tickets began, resulting in a significant flow of income that has reached billions of dollars for the state. Over the course of the last three decades, more than 25% of the Texas Lottery’s profits have been devoted to supporting education and programs that assist veterans in the Lone Star State.

This argument against the lottery suggests that it disproportionately targets minorities and lower income communities, and statistical data partially corroborates this claim.

During this discussion, we will delve into the diverse selection of games offered by the Texas Lottery, gain insight into the reward claiming process, and acquire knowledge on the steps involved in purchasing lottery tickets.

Texas Lottery multi-state draw games

The Texas Lottery participates in draw-style games organized by the Multi-state Lottery Corporation, offering the popular Mega Millions and Powerball titles. People can buy tickets for these bi-weekly drawings from various lottery retailers across Texas.

In addition to these, Texas offers various other draw-style games. The lottery in the state features a range of titles that have frequent drawings, and some of them even offer significant jackpots.

Powerball

Powerball, recently reaching a groundbreaking achievement, now holds the world record for the largest jackpot ever, an astonishing $2.04 billion. This remarkable feat solidifies Powerball as the most renowned lottery game in the nation.

For just $2, players have the opportunity to buy a ticket and select five numbers from 1 to 69, as well as one Powerball number ranging from 1 to 26. In case players wish to enhance their chances of winning non-jackpot prizes, they can add an additional dollar for the Power Play option. Whether you choose to purchase individual tickets or establish a subscription, you can guarantee that your fortunate numbers will be entered into every drawing.

Massive jackpots worth billions have been accumulated by fortunate winners in the progressive-style Powerball game. The value of the Power Play is determined in every drawing, with the highest multiplier available being 10X.

Matching just the Powerball will earn you a $4 prize, and the same amount is awarded if you match the Powerball along with any one number. However, to win the jackpot, players must match all five numbers in addition to the Powerball. It is not necessary to match the exact order of the draw.

The Powerball drawings occur three times per week, precisely at 09:59 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays. These drawings are carried out at the Florida Lottery studio situated in Tallahassee, Florida.

Tickets for the TX Lottery are available for purchase at numerous retailers throughout the state, as well as conveniently through the Jackpocket lotto app.

How to watch Powerball Drawings

The Powerball drawing will be live-streamed in specific cities across Texas for viewing. These cities include:

  • Houston: KHOU, CBS 11
  • Midland-Odessa: KMID, ABC 2
  • San Antonio’s NBC 4 is WOAI.
  • San Antonio’s Fox 3 channel, KABB.

If you do not reside in those markets, you have the option to watch all the live drawings on Powerball.com.

Mega Millions

Throughout the years, Mega Millions has consistently upheld its position as the original multi-state draw game, standing strong alongside Powerball.

Both games follow a similar format. In Mega Millions, players choose five numbers between 1 and 70, as well as one Mega Ball from 1 to 25. The cost of playing one game is $2, but for an extra $1, participants can select the Megaplier option, which increases their winnings (excluding the jackpot).

For each lottery draw, you have the choice to either buy individual tickets or go for a subscription that incorporates the same set of lucky numbers.

Winning the Mega Millions jackpot necessitates matching the five numbers in addition to the Gold Mega Ball; however, matching the sequence of the numbers is not obligatory for victory.

The Mega Millions drawings occur every Tuesday and Friday, commencing at 10:00 p.m.

Mega Millions tickets are available for purchase at any Texas Lottery retailer or through online platforms.

How to watch Mega Millions drawings

The live streaming of the Mega Millions draw is available on the official Youtube channel.

State draw games in Texas

Although multi-state draw games that offer jackpots exceeding nine figures attract a lot of attention, it is important to mention that Texas provides a much broader range of draw-style games exclusively within the state.

Except for Sundays, the Texas Lottery conducts daily draws six days a week.

Among the featured titles:

  • Make your selection: Pick three numbers between 0 and 9 and determine whether you want to play in exact order, any order, both exact and any order, or combo (all possible combinations in exact order on one ticket). The minimum bet is $0.50 and you can win up to $500 depending on the play style you choose. If you choose the Fireball feature, the ticket price will double and the potential payout will increase. There are four drawings every day.
  • The All or Nothing ticket presents two chances to win $250,000. True to its name, if you either match all 12 numbers or fail to match any, you qualify for the grand prize. With four daily drawings, your odds of breaking even are reasonable at 1 in 11.
  • For just $1, Cash Five presents an opportunity to win up to $25,000 in the daily drawing. With odds of one in eight tickets being a winner, you have a chance to receive a free play by matching a minimum of two numbers. The grand prize is awarded to those who successfully match all five numbers.
  • In the Daily 4 lottery game, you have the opportunity to pick four numbers for each of the four daily drawings. Every distinct combination of four numbers has its own designated rewards, which are accessible at both the 50 cents and $1 play levels. For example, if you opt for two pairs of matching numbers, you can secure a prize of $2,500 with a 50-cent play or double it to $5,000 with a $1 ticket.
  • Players in Lotto Texas can choose to add Extra! to their $1 ticket for an extra dollar. This option increases the value of non-jackpot prizes to a maximum of $10,000. The drawings for this game take place only on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The jackpot gradually increases until someone matches all six numbers and wins it.
  • In order to join the thrilling Texas Two-Step game, simply choose four numbers and a Bonus Ball, pay a dollar, and anxiously wait for the lottery results on Mondays and Thursdays. This exciting game also presents a progressive jackpot that can be won by correctly matching all the numbers on your play slip. Even if you only match one number, you’ll still receive a $5 prize. And if you manage to match only the Bonus Ball, you’ll be rewarded with $7.

Instant win games in Texas

If you’re not a fan of waiting for a drawing, Texas Lottery scratch-off games are perfect for you. They offer instant gratification, allowing you to enjoy the excitement right away. Plus, with ticket prices ranging from $1 to $50, there’s a game to fit every budget.

As expected, the number and value of potential prizes rise relative to the cost of the ticket. For instance, the scratch-off game called 10X The Cash, which costs $1, provides a top prize of $5,000. On the other hand, the $50 $5 Million Fortune card has the potential to be worth the exact sum mentioned in its name.

To ensure ongoing player engagement, the Texas Lottery consistently updates and rejuvenates these games.

Lottery retailers

With numerous locations spread throughout the state, it is highly probable to come across a lottery retailer nearby. Several thousand establishments are authorized to sell tickets, and various types of businesses are eligible to obtain licenses for this purpose. Such businesses include:

  • Convenience stores
  • Grocery stores
  • Gas stations
  • Liquor stores
  • Truck stops

If you are at least 18 years old, you can buy lottery tickets from any licensed retailer in Texas. Kindly ensure responsible play.

Buy Texas Lottery tickets online

Although the Texas Lottery website or app does not allow direct purchase of lottery tickets, Texas lottery players can explore other third-party options to buy tickets online.

Jackpot.com

Jackpot.com launched in Texas in January 2025, with support from prominent sports teams such as the Dallas Cowboys, Houston Rockets, and San Antonio Spurs. The user-friendly mobile app is available on iOS and Android platforms, offering a convenient courier service designed specifically for lottery enthusiasts. This groundbreaking app allows users to easily purchase lottery tickets online, which are then collected by a reliable Jackpot Texas courier. The tickets are securely stored until the lottery draw occurs.

Setting up an account

To create an account on Jackpot.com, players must confirm their identity by providing a scanned copy of a state or federally issued identification document. Alternatively, utility bills, bank statements, and tax returns can also be used for identity verification purposes.

The verification process ensures that every player is a minimum of 18 years old and resides in Texas. The completion of this process typically takes between 48 to 72 hours.

Claiming winning tickets

Players have two options to claim their prizes and emerge as winners.

  • Prizes totaling $599 or less will be directly deposited into the player’s bank account that is linked.
  • You can choose to claim prizes of $600 or more directly from the Texas Lottery, whether you wish to remain anonymous or not.

Jackpot.com may ask jackpot winners to partake in voluntary promotional marketing activities, as stated by the company.

Jackpot offers safe gaming practices

In order to promote responsible gameplay, users of the Jackpot app are given the choice to set deposit limits spanning daily, weekly, or monthly durations.

Furthermore, users can choose to create voluntary self-exclusion lists and activate temporary account pauses to ensure that appropriate cool-down periods are observed.

Moreover, the contact information for the National Council on Problem Gambling is also available on the website.

Jackpocket.com

The mobile application, Jackpocket.com, is specifically designed for Android and iOS devices. It should not be confused with Jackpot.com. Unlike the Texas Lottery, this app acts as a third-party platform that allows you to legally purchase lottery tickets on your behalf. It has recently established partnerships with the Dallas Mavericks and the Dallas Stars, making it their official digital lottery courier.

There is a wide selection of lottery games available on the app.

  • Cash Five
  • Daily 3
  • Mega Millions
  • Powerball
  • Treasure Hunt

In addition to buying tickets through the app, you have the convenience of checking drawing results and personalizing your plays with your preferred numbers. An important benefit of purchasing lottery tickets this way is the opportunity to join public pools for specific games. While the jackpot winnings might be divided among the pool members, your chances of receiving a portion of the prize are greatly increased.

Jackpocket can be used in seven jurisdictions, excluding Texas. The app offers multiple deposit options, including bank accounts and PayPal. Moreover, users are greeted with a $3 discount on their first purchase as a welcome bonus.

  • Colorado
  • Minnesota
  • New Hampshire
  • New Jersey
  • New York
  • Ohio
  • Washington, D.C.

What to do if you win the lottery

It is crucial to follow specific recommended practices if you are lucky enough to win a Texas Lottery game. The accompanying video comprehensively discusses these guidelines.

Texas Lottery app and website

The Texas Lottery website presents an app that aims to elevate your gaming experience through a range of enhanced features. While the app does not allow ticket purchases, it offers numerous convenient functions. Moreover, you have the opportunity to engage in exclusive second-chance drawings for tickets that did not win. Furthermore, the app empowers you to:

  • Kindly confirm your tickets to ascertain if you are a winner.
  • Prepare yourself to strategize your drawing techniques by utilizing your favorite numbers.
  • Find the closest retailer based on your current location.
  • Check on jackpot values
  • Could you please assess the current variety of scratch-off tickets?

Additionally, if any changes are made to the law to allow online transactions, you will already be equipped and ready for such an event.

Who benefits from the Texas Lottery?

The lottery plays a crucial role in funding state programs, specifically in supporting initiatives related to education and assistance for veterans. Without the financial assistance offered by the lottery, many programs in the state would encounter challenges in providing their services.

The Foundation School Fund has received an astounding $27.9 billion from the Texas Lottery since 1997. In the fiscal year of 2021 alone, the fund received a generous donation of almost $2 billion from the lottery.

In recent years, veterans have continued to make significant contributions. Since 2009, an impressive $167 million has been allocated by the state lottery to support programs benefiting veterans. What’s truly remarkable is that approximately 90% of the annual funds for these programs come from specially created scratch games dedicated to aiding veterans’ causes. In the fiscal year 2021 alone, these games generated a substantial payout of $23.4 million for the Texas Veterans Commission.

Timeline of the Texas Lottery

The following timeline presents a detailed account of significant milestones that have played a crucial role in shaping the Texas Lottery, ultimately leading to its present position.

  • Texas approves a ballot measure on November 5, 1991, authorizing a state lottery with a substantial 2:1 majority.
  • GTECH was awarded a contract by the state on March 7, 1992, to manufacture and distribute tickets.
  • The first batch of tickets became available for purchase on May 28, 1992, and an astonishing 102 million tickets were sold within the first week.
  • Governor Ann Richards gave authorization on May 25, 1993, for the establishment of the Texas Lottery Commission. Following this, the Commission held its first meeting in February 1994.
  • Since the initial launch, the total sales surpassed $10 billion on March 10, 1996.
  • As of December 15, 2002, the cumulative amount transferred to the state has surpassed $10 billion since its establishment.
  • The sale of multistate lottery tickets began on December 3, 2003, as initiated by the Texas Lottery.
  • The lottery launched its first-ever scratch-off game on November 9, 2009, with the aim of supporting veterans.
  • The company reached a major milestone on September 27, 2017, when its annual sales surpassed $5 billion for the first time ever.
  • On September 24, 2020, the Texas Lottery achieved yet another milestone, surpassing its previous sales record for the 10th consecutive fiscal year.
  • Effective February 28, 2022, QUICKTICKET sales are now available at Kroger stores in Texas, as part of their continuous expansion of lottery options.

Texas Lottery FAQ

What is the gambling age for the Texas Lottery?

Residents of Texas who are 18 years old or older are qualified to take part in the draw and scratch-off games provided by the Texas Lottery.

Is it possible to play the Texas Lottery online?

Online ticket purchasing options are not available through the Texas Lottery. Their app is solely intended for providing information. However, individuals residing in Texas have the option to utilize the Jackpocket app, a third-party platform, to make online purchases of lottery tickets. It is essential to understand that even when using Jackpocket, the process still entails acquiring a physical ticket. A Jackpocket employee will capture an image of your ticket and ensure its security until the upcoming lottery draw. Consequently, it is important to recognize that online transactions in this scenario do not eliminate the requirement for a physical ticket.

How are lottery winnings taxed?

Federal taxes on lottery winnings are consistent across the board, but the specific amount of state taxes imposed can vary depending on the state.

Federal Taxes

If your lottery winnings surpass $599, a fixed federal tax rate of 24% will be taken out from the original amount. The remaining winnings will then be subject to federal income tax. The specific tax owed will vary based on your choice of receiving the earnings either as a lump sum or annual annuity payment.

State Taxes

The majority of states require lottery winners to pay state income taxes, usually falling between 3-8%. Out of these states, New York imposes the highest tax rate on lottery winnings. However, Texans have a reason to celebrate since Texas is among the eight states that do not impose state income taxes on lottery winnings. Consequently, Texans only need to fulfill their tax obligations to the federal government. The states with no state income tax requirements for lottery winnings include:

  • California
  • Florida
  • New Hampshire
  • South Dakota
  • Tennessee
  • Texas
  • Washington
  • Wyoming

If I win a big jackpot, can I remain anonymous when I claim it?

Absolutely! In Texas, a limited number of states respect the privacy of prize winners. If an individual wins a prize surpassing $1 million and chooses a one-time payment instead of installments, they are granted the opportunity to keep their identity undisclosed. However, it is crucial to understand that winners must explicitly state their preference for anonymity when they come forward to claim their prize, as required by the law.

Can I receive my lottery winnings in different ways?

Please note that the option to select from various payout options is exclusively offered to individuals who win substantial jackpot amounts. Winners of massive jackpots, such as in PowerBall or Mega Millions, have the choice to receive their prize as a lump sum or as an annuity. However, it is important to understand that receiving smaller increments over an extended period, like receiving a $10 scratch-off prize in 33-cent installments for the next 30 years, is not a viable option.

It is recommended to seek advice from a financial advisor in order to find the most suitable approach for claiming your significant jackpot winnings. Generally, selecting a long-term annuity payment option is advisable as it can assist in reducing your tax obligations. Nevertheless, there are other approaches that can be employed to lessen your tax responsibilities. A few alternatives include:

  • By making a one-time or annual charitable donation, you have the option to deduct the corresponding amount from your earnings.
  • As long as your gambling losses do not exceed the value of your winnings, you are allowed to deduct them from your overall winnings.
  • Share your earnings with loved ones to spread the wealth.