Responsible Gaming

The lottery is a form of entertainment with a known, heavy cost. Played with money you've decided you can lose, it's harmless fun. Played as a budget, a retirement plan, or a way out of financial trouble, it becomes dangerous. This page is here to help you keep it in the first category.

Set your rules before you play

• Decide a fixed amount you can comfortably lose, and never exceed it.
• Treat that money as already spent the moment you buy — any winnings are a surprise, never an expectation.
• Never borrow money or use funds meant for rent, food, or bills to play.
• Don't chase losses. A bigger buy after a losing streak is the fastest way into trouble.
• Take breaks. If playing has become automatic rather than fun, step away.

Warning signs it's stopped being fun

• Spending more than you decided to, or more than you can afford.
• Chasing losses with larger or more frequent purchases.
• Hiding tickets or spending from people close to you.
• Borrowing, or dipping into essential money, to keep playing.
• Feeling that the next draw has to hit.
• Anxiety, guilt, or lost sleep tied to playing.

Problem gambling is common, treatable, and nothing to be ashamed of. Recognizing any of the above is a good reason to reach out.

Self-exclusion

Most U.S. states run voluntary self-exclusion programs that let you block yourself from lottery play or other gambling for a set period. Ask your official state lottery or the helpline above how to enroll in your state.

Keeping minors out

You must be of legal age to play — 18 in most states, 19 in Nebraska, and 21 in Arizona, Iowa, Louisiana, and Mississippi. Lottery play is never appropriate for minors, and tickets should never be given to children as gifts.