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Frances Richardson of Simsboro is celebrating after snagging the $825,000 Louisiana Lotto jackpot from the March 20th drawing.
After taxes, she walked away with a hefty $717,500 prize. The winning ticket came from Shop-A-Lot #17 on Cut Off Road in Coushatta, which also scored a sweet $8,250 bonus for selling the lucky ticket.
Feeling inspired? This post will guide you through everything you need to know about playing Lotto and potentially joining the ranks of Louisiana's lottery winners.
The Louisiana Lotto explained
Louisiana's Lotto tempts players with a jackpot that starts at a half-million dollars every Wednesday and Saturday. For $1, you can choose your own lucky six numbers from 1 to 42 or let the Lottery's computer pick them for you with a Quick Pick.
If you want to play, don't wait until the last minute. Tickets must be purchased by 9:30 pm on the day of the drawing. Winning numbers are revealed on Wednesdays and Saturdays on official draw show stations and the Lottery's website.
Claiming your prize: The fine print
In Louisiana, prizes exceeding $5,000 require the original ticket and a trip to a lottery office. For jackpots and hefty Powerball/Mega Millions prizes (over $510,000), players need to head to Lottery headquarters. Important note: For Powerball and Mega Millions, forget the photocopy route - they require the original ticket, no exceptions!
Draw-style game prizes have a 180-day claim deadline from the drawing date. For security reasons, always sign your ticket the moment you buy it.
More games, more chances to win
While Lotto offers a chance at a life-changing jackpot, the Louisiana Lottery has a variety of other draw-style games with exciting prize structures. Pick 3, Pick 4, Pick 5, and Easy 5 offer daily drawings and smaller jackpots, perfect for those who want more frequent chances to win. If you're feeling lucky, try your hand at Powerball and Mega Millions, multi-state lottery games boasting massive jackpots that can reach into the hundreds of millions.
Learning about the Louisiana Lottery
The Louisiana Lottery isn't just about Lotto. Established in 1991, it serves as a revenue stream for the state, offering an alternative to tax increases. Thanks to a 2003 amendment, Lottery proceeds benefit public education in Louisiana and have contributed $4.6 billion in funding. The Lottery operates with transparency and accountability and is overseen by various entities, including the Governor's office and legislative committees.
Playing responsibly
The Louisiana Lottery promotes responsible gaming. Lottery tickets are only available to those 21 and older, and the website offers information and resources for those who may have a gambling problem. Remember, lottery games are for entertainment, and playing responsibly is key.
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