Lotto

What is Illinois Lotto?

Illinois Lotto is a popular jackpot lottery game offered by the Illinois Lottery. For a $2 ticket, players select 6 numbers from 1 to 50, entering them into three separate drawings: the main Jackpot drawing (prizes from $1 up to the jackpot), and two additional Lotto Million drawings (each offering a fixed $1,000,000 prize). The game provides multiple chances to win big, with an optional Extra Shot add-on for $1 that enhances non-jackpot prizes by drawing an additional number from 1 to 25.

Brief History

The Illinois Lotto game launched on February 19, 1983, as a Saturday-only draw with six numbers plus an "alternate" from 40 balls. It expanded to a 6/44 matrix on May 19, 1984, and added Wednesday drawings on January 15, 1986. The matrix has evolved over time, reaching 6/50 on April 1, 2021, when the base wager increased to $2 (including entry to the two Lotto Million draws), the minimum jackpot was set at $2 million (rolling over by $250,000), and drawings shifted to Monday, Thursday, and Saturday. The Extra Shot add-on was introduced in November 2012 to boost non-jackpot prizes, and since October 1, 2015, drawings use a random number generator with results posted online.

Rules and How to Play

Basic Rules: Players must be 18 or older. Each game costs $2. Select 6 numbers from 1 to 50 (or use Quick Pick for random selection). Optionally add Extra Shot for $1, which draws a bonus number (1-25) to multiply non-jackpot prizes. Tickets can be played for one draw or up to 12 consecutive draws in advance. The Extra Shot number is drawn during the Jackpot drawing and applies only to non-jackpot prizes in the main drawing. Extra Shot does not affect the jackpot or Lotto Million prizes.

How to Play Online:

1. Log in to the Illinois Lottery website and select Lotto.
2. Pick 6 numbers or Quick Pick; add lines if desired ($2 each).
3. Optionally add Extra Shot ($1 per game).
4. Choose number of draws (1-12) or subscribe (up to 12 months).
5. Add to cart, review, and purchase.
6. Check results in My Account or via email confirmation.

How to Play at Retail:

1. Visit an authorized Illinois Lottery retailer or vending machine.
2. Fill out a play slip with 6 numbers or request Quick Pick ($2 per game).
3. Mark for Extra Shot if desired ($1 extra).
4. Select draw dates (up to 12) and pay.
5. Receive your printed ticket and keep it safe.

Drawings close at 9:15 PM CT on draw days. Results are available shortly after on the website, app, or YouTube.

Drawing Schedule

Drawings are held every Monday, Thursday, and Saturday at 9:22 PM CT. The next drawing as of October 15, 2025, would be on Thursday, October 16.

Prize Structure

Every $2 ticket includes entry into the Jackpot drawing and two Lotto Million drawings ($1,000,000 fixed prizes each). Prizes below are for the main Jackpot drawing. Pari-mutuel prizes are approximate and shared among winners. Extra Shot multiplies certain non-jackpot prizes by 25 and adds new tiers, but does not affect the jackpot odds or prizes.

Lotto Million 1 & 2 (Included with Every Ticket)

Where to Play

Illinois Lotto is available only to residents and visitors in Illinois (must be 18+). Buy tickets online at illinoislottery.com or at over 7,000 authorized retailers statewide, including convenience stores, gas stations, and supermarkets. Self-service vending machines are also available at select locations.

Claiming Prizes

Prizes up to $600 can be claimed at any retailer. For $600-$25,000, use e-Claim online, mail, or visit a Claim Center. Jackpots and prizes over $25,000 must be claimed at the Illinois Lottery Claim Center in Chicago or by mail. Online winnings up to $600 are auto-deposited; larger amounts sent by check. All prizes are subject to federal and state taxes. Claim within 180 days (1 year for jackpots).