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The DC Lottery brings the dollar dream with Lotto America

The District joins 15 states offering an affordable path to million-dollar jackpots.

The DC Lottery Lotto America logo over a blue background with sky blue rays coming out from the center.
Samantha Herscher

Can you win millions for just a dollar? The District of Columbia Lottery thinks so.

The District of Columbia has expanded its game lineup with Lotto America, a multi-state lottery that starts its rolling jackpot at $2 million. Each play costs $1. That's it. 

What makes Lotto America different?

The price point sets it apart. Most multi-state games cost more per ticket. Powerball tickets start at $2, and Mega Millions recently raised its price to $5 per ticket. Lotto America keeps it simple and affordable.

Drawings take place three times a week: Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday at 10:15 p.m. ET. The Multi-State Lottery Association conducts each drawing.

Players choose five numbers between 1 and 52, plus one Star Ball number between 1 and 10. Don't want to pick? You can use Quick Pick for random selection.

How to win

There are nine different ways to win. Match all six numbers to claim the jackpot. Winners can take an annuity with 30 graduated payments over 29 years or a one-time lump sum.

Other prizes range from $2 to $20,000. Want more? Add the All Star Bonus for an extra dollar. This multiplier can boost non-jackpot prizes by 2, 3, 4, or 5 times. Top prize with the bonus? $100,000.

Where to get tickets

All District of Columbia Lottery retailers sell Lotto America tickets. Players can also purchase online through the iLottery platform or download the Official DC Lottery App on Android and iOS devices.

The current jackpot sits at an estimated $4.32 million with a cash value of $2.02 million. Next drawing: Wednesday, October 8, at 10:15 p.m. ET.

A multi-state game

Lotto America launched in 2017 and operates in 16 jurisdictions nationwide. These include:

  • Delaware
  • Idaho
  • Iowa
  • Kansas
  • Maine
  • Minnesota
  • Mississippi
  • Montana
  • Nebraska
  • New Mexico
  • North Dakota
  • Oklahoma
  • South Dakota
  • Tennessee
  • West Virginia
  • And now the District of Columbia

More than half of all proceeds from ticket sales stay in the state where the ticket was purchased.

Is a dollar worth the dream?

DC Lottery's mission centers on providing revenue-generating entertainment through innovative products and promotions. The goal is to directly benefit residents and the economic vitality of the District.

Lotto America fits that mission. It offers an affordable entry point into multi-state lottery games. Whether you're a regular player or trying your luck for the first time, the barrier to entry is low.

Will you be the next jackpot winner? Maybe. But for a dollar, the dream costs less than your morning coffee.

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