Imagine the excitement of a massive Powerball Jackpot online hitting the news. Instead of rushing to a store, you open an app, pick your numbers, and buy a ticket in minutes. That’s the magic of online lotteries! These platforms let you participate in lottery games from the comfort of home, offering convenience and access to both national and state-specific draws.

Lotteries have a long history in the US, dating back to the 1700s when they funded colonial projects (Wikipedia Lotteries).

Today, technology has transformed the game, with online platforms making it easier than ever to play. Whether you’re chasing a billion-dollar Jackpot online or enjoying instant win games, online lotteries bring the thrill to your fingertips.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best US online lotteries in 2025, covering legal platforms, popular games, and tips to play safely. Let’s dive in!

Legality of Online Lotteries in the US

The legality of online lotteries in the US is complex, governed by both federal and state laws.

At the federal level, the Wire Act and Jackpot online the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) impose restrictions on interstate gambling, but their application to lotteries is nuanced (LegalMatch). States have the authority to regulate lotteries, leading to varied rules across the country.

States with Legal Online Lotteries

As of 2025, the following states permit online lottery sales (LegalOnlineLottery):

State	Online Lottery Status	Details
Georgia	Yes	Approved in 2012, offers Draw Games, Keno, and jackpot online Diggi Games.
Illinois	Yes	First to legalize in 2012, offers subscriptions for Draw and Daily Games.
Kentucky	Yes	Since 2016, offers Draw Games and Keno for residents 18+.
Michigan	Yes	Launched in 2014, offers Draw, Keno, and Instant Games.
New Hampshire	Yes, pending launch	Passed bill in 2017, online sales not yet available.
North Carolina	Yes	Offers Draw Games like Powerball and Mega Millions.
Pennsylvania	Yes	Launched in 2018, offers Instant Play Games and Draw Games.
Virginia	Yes	Subscription-based, offers Draw Games for residents 18+.

Some states, like Minnesota, briefly offered online lotteries but repealed them (LegalOnlineLottery).

Others, like Alabama and Massachusetts, are considering legalization (Vixio).

Federal Considerations

While lotteries are primarily state-regulated, federal laws prohibit mailing or transporting lottery tickets across state lines without authorization (USLegal). Third-party courier services like Jackpocket and TheLotter navigate this by purchasing tickets within the state on behalf of players, ensuring compliance (BettingUSA).

Always check your state’s laws before playing, as unauthorized participation could lead to penalties (PrimeLawFirm).

Types of Online Lottery Platforms

Online lotteries in the US fall into two main categories: state-run platforms and third-party courier services.

State-Run Online Lotteries

These are official platforms operated by state lottery commissions, such as the Michigan Lottery or Pennsylvania iLottery. They offer games like Powerball, Mega Millions, and state-specific draws, with ticket prices matching in-store rates and no additional fees.