Illinois Lottery

The Illinois Lottery has a long history, having been established in 1974. Despite a great deal of interest during its early years, sales tailed off before a major revival in 1980 following the launch of its Pick 3 game. It is one of 44 US states which participates in the Mega Millions and Powerball games, of which both can now be played online. As of 2015, winning numbers are determined electronically by way of a random number generator. Funds are distributed to a school fund, a projects fund as well as special causes such as veteran, breast cancer and HIV/AIDS charities.

The Games and Odds

  • Powerball (5/69+1/26) – Odds of winning jackpot: 1 in 292,201,338
  • Mega Millions (5/75 + 1/15) – Odds of winning jackpot: 1 in 258,890,850
  • Lotto (6/52) – Odds of winning jackpot: 1 in 20,358,520

How to be a Powerball Winner

  • 5 correct numbers, no Powerball
  • 4 correct numbers, no Powerball
  • 4 correct numbers, no Powerball
  • 3 correct numbers with Powerball
  • 3 correct numbers, no Powerball
  • 2 correct numbers, no Powerball
  • 1 correct number with Powerball
  • Powerball Only

How to be a Mega Millions Winner

  • 5 correct numbers with bonus ball
  • 5 correct number, no bonus ball
  • 4 correct numbers with bonus ball
  • 4 correct numbers, no bonus ball
  • 3 correct numbers with bonus ball
  • 3 correct numbers, no bonus ball
  • 2 correct numbers with bonus ball
  • 1 correct number with bonus ball
  • Bonus ball Only

How to be a Lotto Winner

  • 6 correct numbers
  • 5 correct numbers with Extra Shot
  • 5 correct numbers
  • 4 correct numbers with Extra Shot
  • 4 correct numbers
  • 3 correct numbers with Extra Shot
  • 3 correct numbers
  • 2 correct numbers with Extra Shot
  • 2 correct numbers
  • 1 correct numbers with Extra Shot
  • 1 correct number
  • Extra shot