Attention, Lotto Winners: Here’s How To Claim Your Prize In Illinois

The combined jackpots of MegaMillions and Powerball are nearing $1 billion in the second weekend of 2021.

Winning a larger portion of the prize pool often results in increased profits from lottery ticket sales. Therefore, it is important to understand the process of claiming your winnings if you win while playing multistate lottery games in Illinois.

No matter which lottery game you win, the rules will always be the same. What really matters is the amount of money you win and how you choose to play.

How to win a reward in the Illinois Lottery

Similar to many other websites, the magic number of combinations for selecting players is 600.

You have the option to collect any prize of $600 or under at a lottery retailer. If you bought your winning ticket through the IL Lottery app or website, your winnings will be directly deposited into your account, allowing you to transfer the funds to a bank account.

If you win an amount ranging from $601 to $1 million, your options for claiming are restricted. The Illinois Lottery suggests claiming these winnings through mail by downloading and completing the claim packet to start the process.

If you purchased a physical ticket, please sign the distinctive ticket and place it in an envelope with the necessary claim packet documents. If you played online, simply ensure that the state message documents are filled out and that the name on the form matches the name on your account. Before sending anything by mail, make copies of all documents for your own records. Finally, submit everything via registered email.

• Illinois Lottery Claims Department
• Carton 19080 PO
• 62794-9912 Springfield, Illinois

Alternatively, you can choose to schedule an appointment at one of the claim centers. Please note that due to the COVID-19 pandemic, walk-in visitors are not currently accepted. To claim your prize, you must schedule an appointment online.

If you attended the game, you must obtain the traditional autographed souvenir. If you purchased your ticket online, be sure to bring your smartphone or tablet. Additionally, you must have a valid government-issued photo ID, a document confirming your Social Security number, and proof of residency in the state.

Only one individual, whether they are a medal winner or a representative, is permitted to enter the facility at a time. The IL Lottery mandates that all claimants wear suitable face masks while on the premises. If your prize surpasses $1 million, such as the Mega Millions or Powerball jackpot, a distinct protocol will be followed.

What if I take home the Powerball or Mega Millions this trip?

If you are lucky enough to win the lottery, don’t wait. Contact the IL Lottery’s main claims center at 217-524-5147 immediately after learning of your win. A representative will be available to help you and address any inquiries you may have.

Although the chances of winning either jackpot, let alone both, are incredibly slim, it is still mathematically possible to achieve such a feat within a short period. This knowledge could be crucial if you happen to win any prizes while playing the lottery in Illinois.