A Guide to the Best Illinois Online Lottery Sites
People will always associate the Illinois lottery project with the legalization of online gambling in the United States. Americans have been playing lottery tickets since as far back as the 1930s, but it was Illinois’ interest in the introduction of online ticket sales that set the ball rolling for online gambling in the US. The Federal Wire Act of 1961 was set up to curb interstate betting activities, but it was unclear how it applied to non-sports betting events. Following an inquiry sent to the Department of Justice by New York and Illinois lottery officials, the DOJ concluded that “…interstate transmissions of wire communications that do not relate to a “sporting event or contest,” 18 U.S.C. § 1084(a), fall outside of the reach of the Wire Act.”
This did not just open the door to online lottery games, but also an online casino and poker gambling, with states like New Jersey, Nevada and Delaware quickly taking advantage. Illinois became the first state to launch online lottery ticket sales in March 2012 when they started selling Lotto and Mega Millions tickets. The Lottery Control Board is the governing body for lottery games in the state and determines laws and policies.
How to Play at Illinois Lottery Online
To start playing these lottery games, you must first register. The process is safe and straightforward, and the only requirement is that you reside within the state and are at least 18 years old. From their website, click on the “Register” button at the page’s top right corner. It will redirect you to a page where you will need to fill in some personal information. Once they confirm your details, your account is set up, and you can start playing.
There are six games available on their website, and once your account is set up, you can select “Play” on any of them and choose a “single purchase” for a select number of draws or “subscribe” for a specific duration. There are a few banking methods available to make deposits and withdrawals once you want to start playing and cashing out respectively. And all these are accessible via their mobile apps.
Bonus Offers and Promotions at The Illinois Online Lottery
We didn’t notice any welcome bonus offer for new players while we checked through the Illinois lottery website. However, we noted the “Road to $1 million” promotional offer that is currently running. You can enter non-winning holiday tickets to the Second Chance Drawing and stand the chance of winning a trip to Los Angeles. The promotion does not require a bonus code, and each ticket costs $20.
Safety Measures and Information Required on Illinois Lottery Website
For each player’s safety, every account has its unique password. You must keep this password safe. The Illinois lottery online also has some safety measures in place to ensure any information you provide remains private. The following are the necessary details required of you while registering:
- Email address
- Password
- Security question and answer
- Your full name
- Date of Birth
- Gender
- Your residential address.
Games That Can Be Played Online With the Illinois Lottery
There are two types of games currently available at the Illinois lottery online.
- Jackpot Games – Powerball, Mega Millions, Lotto, Lucky Day Lotto
- Daily Games – Pick 3 Plus Fireball, Pick 4 Plus Fireball
Illinois Lottery Mobile Apps
The Illinois online lottery is available on the go. From the comfort of your Android or iOS devices, wagering on your favorite lottery games has never been easier. The new and improved app has a sleek design and is easily navigable. You can register your account from the app, and there is a new “Touch ID” feature for more comfortable and safer logins. Push notifications ensure you never miss a draw on any of the games and alert you whenever you hit the jackpot! Interestingly, when you purchase paper tickets from the store, you can now scan them on your phone to see if you won. As easy as it gets.
iOS users can download the app via the apple store, however, Android users have to go through the website as Google’s restriction on gambling apps means it inaccessible via the Google play store.
How to Claim Your Online Lottery Winnings
The primary goal of the Illinois online lottery is to give you a chance to win. When you win Prizes below $600, you can cash this ticket directly, and your winnings can be credited instantly into your account.
For prizes above $600, you can visit any of the 4 Claim Centres, although winners are encouraged to reach out and process their winnings via mail.
Banking Options for Online Lottery
Options for making financial transactions are pretty limited at the online gaming site. You can make deposits via a Credit card or a Debit card (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) You can withdraw winnings below $600 directly into your Checking or Savings account, or you can request a check. All claims above $600 require further processing by the Illinois Lottery Claims Department.
Conclusion
We have covered the significant aspects of online casino gambling in the United States. Provided you confirm that your provider operates legally and suits your needs, there are too many options not to find one that fits your preferences and your pocket.
Read more about legal optinos for online betting in Illinois:
FAQ
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Does Illinois allow online gambling?
- Yes, Online sports betting is the only form of online gambling permitted in Illinois
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What is the legal age for an online lottery in Illinois?
- All players at the Illinois online lottery must be at least 18 years old.
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Can I play the Illinois lottery online?
- Yes, you can.
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Can I buy IL lottery tickets with a credit card?
- Yes, players can use credit cards to make payments into their accounts.
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Can I remain anonymous if I win the lottery in Illinois?
- Yes, you can.
