Idaho Lotto America

History and Background

The Idaho Lotto America game has a rich history that dates back to the original Lotto America game launched in 1988. This multi-state lottery was the precursor to Powerball, which began in 1992. In 2017, Lotto America was reintroduced, offering a fresh take on the classic lottery game. The game was designed to provide players with more opportunities to win and included unique features such as the All Star Bonus. Idaho joined this revived version to diversify its lottery offerings and provide more exciting opportunities for its residents.

Key Milestones and Changes

Game Schedule

Draw Days and Times

Lotto America draws are held twice a week, on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The draws take place at 8:00 PM MT. Players must purchase their tickets by 7:59 PM MT on the day of the draw to be eligible for that night's drawing. The results are typically available shortly after the draw and can be checked online, through the Idaho Lottery app, or at authorized retailers.

Frequency of Draws

With bi-weekly draws, Lotto America maintains a regular and exciting pace, allowing players to participate twice a week. This frequent draw schedule keeps the game dynamic and maintains high levels of player engagement and anticipation.

How to Play

Detailed Rules for Each Game

To play Idaho Lotto America, players must select five numbers from a pool of 1 to 52 and one Star Ball number from a pool of 1 to 10. Each play costs $1. For an additional $1 per play, players can add the All Star Bonus feature, which multiplies non-jackpot winnings by 2x, 3x, 4x, or 5x. Players can choose their numbers manually or opt for a Quick Pick, where the numbers are randomly selected by the lottery terminal.

Number Selection

Players need to select five main numbers from 1 to 52 and one Star Ball number from 1 to 10. Matching all five main numbers and the Star Ball number wins the jackpot. The All Star Bonus feature enhances non-jackpot winnings, providing additional excitement and higher potential payouts.

Ticket Purchasing

Tickets can be purchased at any authorized Idaho Lottery retailer. Additionally, players can buy tickets online through the Idaho Lottery's official website or mobile app, offering a convenient way to participate. Each play costs $1, with an additional $1 for the All Star Bonus feature.

Draw Process

During the draw, five numbers are randomly selected from a set of 52, and one Star Ball number is selected from a set of 10. Players win by matching their selected numbers to the drawn numbers. The All Star Bonus multiplier is drawn separately and applied to non-jackpot prizes, enhancing the winnings for those who opted for the feature.

Winning and Prizes

Prize Structure

Idaho Lotto America offers multiple prize tiers, with the top prize being the jackpot. Here is a detailed breakdown:

Jackpot Details

The jackpot for Idaho Lotto America starts at $2 million and increases with each draw until it is won. If no ticket matches all five main numbers and the Star Ball, the jackpot rolls over to the next draw. When multiple tickets win the jackpot, the prize is divided equally among the winners. Winners can choose to receive their prize as a lump sum or as an annuity paid over 30 years.

Odds and Prize Structure

Odds of Matching Numbers

The odds of winning a prize in Idaho Lotto America vary by prize tier. Here are the odds for each prize level:

Explanation of Odds Calculation

The odds are calculated based on the total number of possible combinations of the drawn numbers. The combination formula (C(n, k) = n! / [k!(n - k)!]) is used to determine the odds for each prize tier.

Comprehensive Odds Table for Game

Claiming Prizes

How to Claim

Players can claim their prizes in several ways, depending on the prize amount. Prizes up to $599 can be claimed at any Idaho Lottery retailer. Prizes of $600 or more must be claimed at the Idaho Lottery headquarters or by mail.

In-Store Claims

For prizes up to $599, players can visit any authorized Idaho Lottery retailer to claim their prize. Simply present the winning ticket to the retailer, and they will process the claim and provide the payout.

Mail-in Claims

To claim prizes of $600 or more by mail, players must complete a claim form, available on the Idaho Lottery website. Mail the completed form, along with the signed winning ticket, to:

Idaho Lottery
1199 Shoreline Lane, Suite 100
Boise, ID 83702

Prizes that Require In-Person Claims

For prizes of $600 or more, players can also choose to claim their prize in person at the Idaho Lottery headquarters. Be sure to bring a valid photo ID and the winning ticket. The headquarters' address is:

Idaho Lottery Headquarters
1199 Shoreline Lane, Suite 100
Boise, ID 83702
Phone: (208) 334-2600

Online Claims

Currently, Idaho does not offer online claims for lottery prizes. All claims must be processed in person or by mail as described above.

Tax Implications

Federal Taxes

Lottery winnings are subject to federal taxes. The federal withholding rate for lottery prizes is 24%. This applies to all prizes over $5,000. Winners are required to report their winnings on their federal income tax return.

State Taxes

Idaho state tax applies to lottery winnings. The state withholding rate for lottery prizes is 6.925%. This is deducted from the winnings before the payout is made. Winners must report their winnings on their Idaho state tax return.

Local Taxes

Currently, there are no local taxes imposed on lottery winnings in Idaho. However, winners should verify if this applies based on their specific locality.

Total Withholding Rate

Responsible Gaming

Resources and Support

The Idaho Lottery provides resources and support for responsible gaming. Players are encouraged to play responsibly and seek help if they feel they have a gambling problem. The Idaho Lottery partners with organizations such as the Idaho Council on Problem Gambling to provide assistance and resources to those in need.

Counseling Services

Free and confidential counseling services are available through the Idaho Council on Problem Gambling. Visit their website at www.idahocpg.org for more information or call their helpline at (800) 522-4700.

Self-Exclusion Programs

Players can voluntarily exclude themselves from purchasing lottery tickets through the Idaho Lottery's self-exclusion program. Visit the Idaho Lottery website for more information on how to enroll and the duration of the self-exclusion period.

Tips for Responsible Play

• Set Limits:
Establish a budget for lottery play and stick to it.
• Play for Fun:
Remember that playing the lottery should be a form of entertainment, not a way to make money.
• Seek Help:
If gambling becomes a problem, seek professional assistance immediately.

Contact Information

For more information or assistance, players can contact the Idaho Lottery through the following:

• Lottery Headquarters:

• Regional Offices:

• Customer Service Contacts:

• Online Support Websites: