Can I buy Powerball tickets online? I don’t know about you, but sometimes, buying lottery tickets feels like a hassle. Either I can’t find a lottery store nearby, or my day gets too busy, and I miss the chance to get there before they close.
And let’s not even talk about the long lines when I finally make it – waiting is not my idea of fun. It feels like everything is working against me when all I want to do is play. Sound familiar?
Wouldn’t it be much easier to do this from home, relaxing on the couch? Am I right?
But…
Is it Really Possible to Play Powerball Online?
Yes, according to Powerball offcial website you can buy your tickets online, but only in certain states. Powerball is available in 45 states, plus D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. However, you can only buy Powerball tickets online in 8 states and the District of Columbia.
You’ll need to use your state lottery’s official app or website. Some states also offer online ticket sales through subscription services, but that also depends on where you live.
Keep reading: Winning the lottery online: Is it possible?
So… Which States Let You Buy Powerball Tickets Online?
Here is a list of all the states that allow you to buy Powerball tickets online. Check it out – you might be lucky enough to live in one of them!
- Georgia
- Illinois
- Kentucky
- Michigan
- New Hampshire
- North Carolina
- Pennsylvania
- Virginia
- Washington D.C.
One important thing to remember: you can only buy Powerball tickets online if you reside in one of these states. Also, you must be physically present in that state when you make your purchase. So, if you’re traveling to a state that doesn’t allow online sales, you’ll have to wait until you return home to buy your ticket.
Are There Other Ways to Play Powerball Online?
There are always options, but that doesn’t mean they’re all great. A few services and apps act as a middleman to help you buy Powerball tickets online. This can be super convenient if you live in one of the 32 states that don’t allow online sales.
How do they work?
These apps buy the ticket for you. You still get to choose your numbers, the number of tickets, and whether you want to add any extra options (if they’re available).
That said, it’s essential to ensure that your website or app is legitimate and trustworthy. There are many lottery scams, so it’s better to be safe than sorry. Also, ensure the service is legal in your state or region – not every state allows these third-party services. Do your homework first, so you don’t get into legal trouble.
How Much Does it Cost to Buy Powerball Tickets Online?
If you’re buying through your state’s official lottery app, the price is exactly the same as in-store: $2 per play, plus an additional $1 if you activate any additional options like Power Play (if your state offers them).
But if you’re using a third-party service, you may end up paying more. Some charge additional service fees or may take a cut when you fund your account.
Can You Win Powerball Online?
Absolutely – this part works the same. Your chances of winning Powerball are the same whether you buy your ticket in a store or online.
Not sure what your chances are? We’ve got a chart that breaks down the Powerball prizes and the odds for each one – take a look!
| Match | Prize | Odds |
|---|---|---|
| Five numbers + The Powerball | Jackpot | 1 in 292,201,338.00 |
| Five numbers | $1,000,000 | 1 in 11,688,053.52 |
| Four numbers + The Powerball | $50,000 | 1 in 913,129.18 |
| Four numbers | $100 | 1 in 36,525.17 |
| Three numbers + The Powerball | $100 | 1 in 14,494.11 |
| Three numbers | $7 | 1 in 579.76 |
| Two numbers + The Powerball | $7 | 1 in 701.33 |
| One number + The Powerball | $4 | 1 in 91.98 |
| The Powerball | $4 | 1 in 38.32 |
Summing up
So, if you live in Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Virginia or Washington D.C.- congratulations! You’re lucky enough to be able to buy your Powerball tickets online. Pretty convenient, right? No lines, no rush – just play at your own pace from the comfort of your couch.
If you’re not in one of those states, don’t lose hope. You may still be able to play online through a subscription service. And if that’s not an option either, you can try one of these third-party services – just make sure they’re legitimate, reputable, and legal in your state.
Are you ready to try playing Powerball online? Is it legal where you live? Leave a comment below and let us know!