In the United States, online lottery ticket sales are not widespread. However, a handful of states have legalized these services. And, in the future, more states will likely authorize their own online lotteries.

The most common types of online lottery tickets are scratch-offs and instant win games. These lottery games are similar to the scratch-offs that are sold in live bingo halls. If you bet on lottery numbers, you will earn bonus points that can give you a chance to win cash prizes.

Official state-sponsored lottery sites charge the same price for an online ticket as a real-world ticket. They also provide easy access to results and promotions. This makes them a safer option for players.

Using an official lottery website will allow you to buy your tickets more securely. Some states require you to purchase your ticket through an agent. A lottery agency will verify your identity and send you a form if you win a prize.

Online lottery games are not available to people living in Hawaii. Those who visit other states can purchase tickets and bring them back. But, the government does not seem keen on the idea.

The Illinois Lottery has been offering online lottery ticket sales since 2012. It launched a pilot program in March of 2012. Later, it added Instant Games and Daily Lottery Games. Now, it sells individual Powerball, Mega Millions, and Lotto tickets.

The Washington DC Lottery offers several draw games and scratchers. Its profits are used to fund various public causes. It has allocated over $1.5 billion to its general fund and various public programs.