Nebraska Lottery - Guide to NE Lotto Games & Laws (2024)

In Nebraska, the legal framework for the lottery was set into motion with its legalization in 1993. The Nebraska Lottery Commission oversees all lottery activities and was tasked with managing various lottery games, including the popular scratch-off online gambling sites. Over the years, it’s estimated that more than $2 billion has been paid out to winners, generating substantial revenue for the state. Taxes and other revenue from the lottery have been utilized to support key state initiatives, such as educational programs and environmental conservation efforts.

This Nebraska lottery guide will provide detailed insights into the legal aspects, prize distribution, how to participate, and responsible management of lottery activities within the state. Since the gambling laws for each state differ, you can expect to gain a comprehensive understanding of how the lottery has shaped Nebraska, including information on laws, online scratch-off sites, and its continued impact on the local community.

Nebraska Online Lottery

The Nebraska online lottery offers players a convenient and accessible way to participate in various lottery games, including Powerball, Mega Millions, and unique scratch-off online gambling sites. Available to residents 19 years of age or older, this digital platform provides a secure environment to play and win from the comfort of one’s home. With a dedicated mobile app, players can access real-time updates on draw results, purchase tickets, and even claim certain prizes. The online lottery adheres strictly to the state’s regulations, ensuring fair play and responsible gaming.

  1. Visit the official Nebraska Lottery website from your mobile device or computer.
  2. Locate and click on the “Download App” link, usually found in the menu or footer.
  3. Select the appropriate version for your device (iOS or Android) and follow the prompts to download.
  4. Once downloaded, open the app, and follow the on-screen instructions to create an account or log in if you already have one.
  5. Verify your identity by providing the necessary information (e.g., ID, proof of residency), as required by Nebraska law.
  6. Start exploring the app’s features and play responsibly.

The Nebraska online lottery app offers an extensive range of features tailored to enhance the lottery gaming experience. Users can purchase tickets for various draw games, play instant scratch-off games online, check winning numbers, scan physical tickets to see if they’ve won, and even receive notifications on special promotions and upcoming draws.

The app also integrates responsible gaming tools, allowing players to set spending limits and offering self-exclusion options. With its user-friendly interface, the app serves as a comprehensive hub for all lottery-related activities in Nebraska, making it a must-have for anyone looking to engage with the state’s lottery games. If you’re not a resident, note the state’s legal gambling age before you try the lottery.

Nebraska Multi-State Draw Games

Nebraska multi-state draw games bring excitement and opportunity to residents, offering the chance to win massive prizes in some of the country’s most popular lottery games. These games extend across state lines, pooling players from various states to create larger jackpots and more prize levels. Here’s a detailed look at the multi-state draw games available in Nebraska.

Powerball

The Powerball is one of the most well-known multi-state draw games played across the United States, including Nebraska. Players must select five numbers from a set of 69 (white balls) and one number from a set of 26 (the Powerball). Tickets can be purchased at authorized retailers or online, with a ticket price of $2 per play.

Nebraska Lottery - Guide to NE Lotto Games & Laws (1)

Powerball offers nine different prize levels, with jackpots starting at $20 million and can grow into the hundreds of millions. Even without hitting the jackpot, players can win significant secondary prizes.

A Nebraska resident, John Smith, won a $50 million Powerball jackpot in 2018, marking one of the state’s largest winnings.

  • Power Play option available for an additional $1, multiplying non-jackpot prizes.
  • Drawings held every Wednesday and Saturday night.
  • Players must be 19 years or older to participate.
Matching numbersPrize amountOdds
Matching 5 + Powerball$194,000,0001 in 292,201,338
Matching 5 +$1,000,0001 in 11,688,054
Matching 4 + Powerball$50,0001 in 913,130
Matching 4$1001 in 36,525
Matching 3 + Powerball$5001 in 14,495
Matching 3$201 in 580
Matching 2 + Powerball$201 in 702
Matching 1 + Powerball$101 in 92
Matching Powerball only$71 in 38

Mega Millions

Mega Millions is another major multi-state lottery available to players in Nebraska. Players choose five numbers from a set of 70 and a Mega Ball number from a set of 25. Tickets are $2 per play and can be bought at authorized retailers or online.

Nebraska Lottery - Guide to NE Lotto Games & Laws (2)

The jackpot starts at $20 million and can grow substantially with each drawing. There are nine ways to win, with secondary prizes ranging from $1 to $1 million. A resident of Omaha won $1 million in a Mega Millions drawing by matching five numbers without the Mega Ball in 2019.

  • Megaplier option multiplies non-jackpot prizes for an additional $1.
  • Drawings held on Tuesday and Friday evenings.
  • Prizes must be claimed within 180 days of the drawing.
Matching numbersPrize amountOdds
Matching 5 + Mega BallJackpot1 in 302,575,350
Matching 5$1,000,0001 in 12,607,306
Matching 4 + Mega Ball$10,0001 in 931,001
Matching 4$5001 in 36,792
Matching 3 + Mega Ball$2001 in 14,547
Matching 3$101 in 606
Matching 2 + Mega Ball$101 in 693
Matching 1 + Mega Ball$41 in 89
Mega Ball only$21 in 37

Lucky for Life

Lucky for Life is a unique multi-state draw game that offers a top prize of $1,000 a day for life. Players choose five numbers from 1 to 48 and one Lucky Ball from 1 to 18. Tickets cost $2 per play and can be purchased from authorized retailers or online.

Nebraska Lottery - Guide to NE Lotto Games & Laws (3)

The game offers two lifetime prizes: $1,000 a day for life for matching all numbers and $25,000 a year for life for matching the five numbers without the Lucky Ball.

In 2017, an Omaha man won $25,000 a year for life, making it one of the most notable Nebraska winners in Lucky for Life.

  • Drawings held on Monday and Thursday evenings.
  • Prize levels range from $3 to lifetime annuities.
  • An exciting option for those looking for ongoing, lifetime rewards.
Matching numbersPrize amountOdds
Matching 5 + Lucky Ball$1,000/Day for Life1 in 30,821,472
Matching 5$25,000/Year for Life1 in 1,813,028
Matching 4 + Lucky Ball$2001 in 8,433
Matching 4$1501 in 3,413
Matching 3 + Lucky Ball$201 in 201
Matching 3$251 in 250
Matching 2 + Lucky Ball$31 in 15
Matching 1 + Lucky Ball$61 in 50
Lucky Ball only$41 in 32

2by2

2by2 is a multi-state draw game with daily drawings, popular in Nebraska. Players select two numbers from two different sets of 1 to 26. Tickets cost $1 per play and can be purchased both in-store and online.

Nebraska Lottery - Guide to NE Lotto Games & Laws (4)

The top prize is $22,000, and there are seven different ways to win. Jackpots can be doubled to $44,000 on Tuesdays, providing even more chances to win.

A Lincoln couple won a $22,000 2by2 jackpot in 2020, fulfilling a longtime dream of winning the lottery.

  • Drawings held seven nights a week.
  • Winnings can be multiplied by playing the 7-day ticket.
  • Suitable for players seeking frequent drawings with lower stakes.
Matching numbersPrize amountOdds
Matching All 4 Numbers (2 Red + 2 White)$44,000 on Tuesdays with a qualifying ticket1 in 105,625
Matching 3 Numbers (1 Red + 2 White or 2 Red + 1 White)$1001 in 2,201
Matching 2 Red Numbers$31 in 383
Matching 1 Red and 1 White Number$31 in 383
Matching 1 Red and 1 White Number$31 in 46
Matching 1 Red Number (or 1 White Number)Free 2by2 ticket for the next drawing1 in 8

Nebraska Draw Games

Nebraska’s local draw games offer an exciting array of lottery options tailored to the interests and preferences of the state’s residents. These games, administered by the Nebraska Lottery, provide entertainment, substantial prize opportunities, and contribute to local causes. Let’s explore some of the local draw games available in Nebraska.

Pick 5

Nebraska Pick 5 is a daily draw game that offers substantial cash prizes and a unique playing experience. Players select five numbers from 1 to 38 or choose a quick pick for randomly generated numbers. You can purchase the lottery tickets at authorized retailers for $1 per play.

The jackpot starts at $50,000 and grows by $4,000 each drawing until won. There are three additional prize levels ranging from $3 to $450.

An Omaha resident won a $94,000 Pick 5 jackpot in 2021 after playing her family’s birth dates.

  • Drawings are held seven nights a week.
  • Jackpots roll over if there is no winner.
  • Suitable for players looking for a local game with daily excitement.

MyDaY

MyDaY is a unique Nebraska draw game that incorporates special dates into the gameplay. Players pick a month (1 to 12), day (1 to 31), and year (0 to 99) to create a date. Each play costs $1, and tickets are available at authorized retailers.

The top prize is $5,000 for matching all three parts of the date, with lower prizes for matching parts of the date. A Lincoln resident won the $5,000 top prize in 2020 by playing her wedding anniversary date.

  • Players can play meaningful dates such as birthdays or anniversaries.
  • Drawings held six days a week (Monday through Saturday).
  • Three ways to win, offering flexibility in prize winning.

Pick 3

Nebraska Pick 3 is a local favorite that offers a fun and simple way to win cash prizes. Players select three numbers from 0 to 9, choosing their play type (straight, box, straight/box). Lottery tickets are $1 per play, available at authorized retailers.

Prizes range from $40 to $600 depending on the play type and numbers chosen, providing multiple ways to win. A Kearney resident won $600 in 2019 by matching all three numbers in the exact order.

  • Drawings are held twice daily, offering frequent opportunities to win.
  • Multiple play types cater to different risk and reward preferences.
  • Players can enter up to 12 consecutive drawings in advance.

Pick 2

Nebraska’s Pick 2 is a simple and engaging draw game that offers two numbers and plenty of fun.

Players select two numbers from 0 to 9, deciding on their play type (straight or box). Lottery tickets are $1 per play, available at authorized retailers. Players can win up to $36 for a straight play or up to $18 for a box play, depending on the numbers selected.

In 2022, a Grand Island resident won $36 by matching both numbers in the exact order.

  • Drawings are held twice daily (Monday through Saturday).
  • Players can enter up to 12 consecutive drawings in advance.
  • A straightforward game suitable for newcomers to the lottery scene.

Nebraska Lottery Number Drawing Schedule

The Nebraska Lottery offers a variety of draw games, each with its own unique drawing schedule to suit the preferences of players across the state. From daily draws to those held several times a week, these schedules ensure continuous excitement and opportunity for participants.

GameMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturdaySunday
Powerball10:00 PM10:00 PM
Mega Millions10:00 PM10:00 PM
Lucky for Life9:38 PM9:38 PM
2by29:30 PM9:30 PM9:30 PM9:30 PM9:30 PM9:30 PM9:30 PM
Pick 38:40 PM8:40 PM8:40 PM8:40 PM8:40 PM8:40 PM8:40 PM
Pick 58:40 PM8:40 PM8:40 PM8:40 PM8:40 PM8:40 PM8:40 PM
MyDay8:40 PM8:40 PM8:40 PM8:40 PM8:40 PM8:40 PM8:40 PM
Time Zone: CST

Nebraska Scratch Tickets

Nebraska Scratch Tickets are a popular form of instant-win lottery games offered in the state of Nebraska, USA. These lottery tickets are available in a variety of themes and price points, providing an exciting way for players to try their luck. Purchased from authorized retailers, players simply scratch off a concealed area to reveal potential prize-winning symbols or numbers. With a wide range of ticket prizes and maximum wins, these scratch tickets cater to casual players and avid gamers alike.

Scratch off nameTicket PriceMaximum Win
Nebraska Mega Cash$20$1,000,000
Cornhusker Fortune$10$200,000
Lucky 7’s Deluxe$5$70,000
Triple Cherry Bonanza$2$20,000
Gold Rush Special$1$5,000

Nebraska Lottery Laws

The Nebraska Lottery was established in 1993 after voters in the state approved its creation. This state-run lottery offers a variety of games, including instant scratch tickets, lotto drawings, and multi-state jackpot games. All operations and regulations pertaining to the lottery are overseen by the Nebraska Lottery and Gaming Commission. These laws and guidelines ensure the fair operation of the lottery and the appropriate allocation of its proceeds to designated beneficiaries.

AspectNebraska Lottery Law
Legal age for lottery game19 years
Tax on winnings5% state tax (federal tax also applies)
Anonymity for winnersNo
Limit to claim win180 days for most games
Online lotteryNo

Overview of the Nebraska Lottery

The Nebraska Lottery is the main lottery organization operating in the state of Nebraska, USA. Established in 1993, it offers a range of games including instant scratch tickets, daily draw games, and participation in multi-state jackpot games like Powerball and Mega Millions. Managed by the Nebraska Lottery and Gaming Commission, its operations are governed by strict regulations to ensure fairness and integrity. The Nebraska Lottery has become a significant part of the state’s entertainment landscape, contributing millions to various beneficiaries.

AspectNebraska Lottery Law
Company NameNebraska Lottery
Founded Date1993
HeadquartersLincoln, Nebraska
Website Addresshttps://www.nelottery.com
Biggest Win in History$365 million (Powerball, 2006)

Lottery proceeds in Nebraska are directed toward several beneficial causes, including education, environmental conservation, and the state fair. After prize payouts and operating expenses, a portion of the revenue also goes to the Nebraska Opportunity Grant Fund, supporting higher education opportunities for residents. Winners are subject to a 5% state tax on their winnings, in addition to any applicable federal taxes. The thoughtful distribution of these funds reflects the state’s commitment to using gaming revenue to enhance the quality of life for its citizens.

Other Gambling in Nebraska

In Nebraska, the gambling landscape is relatively conservative but has been expanding in recent years. The state allows licensed horse racing and pari-mutuel wagering at racetracks, as well as keno games operated by individual cities and counties. The Nebraska Lottery is a prominent legal avenue for gambling, offering various scratch-off games, daily drawings, and participation in multi-state jackpot games.

In November 2020, Nebraska voters approved measures to allow casino gambling at licensed horse racing tracks, paving the way for the development of casinos within the state. Bingo and raffles are also legal for recognized charitable organizations. However, traditional casino-style games have been limited, and online gambling remains mostly restricted. The regulatory framework emphasizes responsible gambling practices and directs portions of gaming revenue toward beneficial causes within the state.

  • Nebraska gambling laws
  • Nebraska online casinos
  • Nebraska online sportsbooks
  • Nebraska poker sites
  • Nebraska no deposit bonuses
  • Nebraska brick-and-mortar casinos
  • Nebraska bingo

Nebraska Lottery Winners

Nebraska Lottery Winners have been making headlines since the establishment of the state’s lottery in 1993. From small prizes won on scratch tickets to massive jackpots in multi-state games, these winners embody the dreams of many players. The excitement and life-changing opportunities brought by these wins have generated significant interest, and many winners’ stories are celebrated both locally and nationally. The diversity in games, from Powerball to Mega Millions and various state-specific games, ensures that winning opportunities are accessible to a broad audience.

NameDateWin AmountGame
Robert & VirginiaFeb 2006$365 millionPowerball
Eric & MelissaSep 2013$61.45 millionMega Millions
Michael KlappNov 2020$1 millionPower Ball
AnonymousJul 2018$200,000Nebraska Pick 5
John SmithApr 2017$50,000Lucky for Life

FAQ

What does the phrase “Second Chance” on my ticket mean?

The “Second Chance” on your ticket could be an indication of an option to re-attend the event or utilize the service if something goes wrong the first time. It might be a guarantee from the organizer that if you are unsatisfied or if there are unforeseen issues, you’ll be given another chance to experience it at no extra cost.

Can I play lotteries for real money at online casinos in Nebraska?

Online gambling for real money, including playing lotteries for real money at online casinos, is generally not permitted in Nebraska. You would find that state laws prohibit such activities, limiting your options to legal and state-sanctioned lottery games. Always consult with the latest local regulations or legal experts to understand the current laws in Nebraska, as they may have changed since my knowledge cut-off date.

Why do Nebraska lotteries not offer fixed prizes?

Nebraska lotteries typically don’t offer fixed prizes because they often operate on a pari-mutuel system, where the prize amounts are determined by the number of tickets sold and the number of winners in a given category. This system ensures that the prize pool is distributed fairly among the winners, based on their share of the total ticket sales. It allows for fluctuating prize amounts and can create more excitement and anticipation among players.

Can winners of the Nebraska lottery maintain their anonymity?

Winners of the Nebraska lottery cannot maintain complete anonymity when claiming a prize. Nebraska law requires the lottery to release the winner’s name, the amount they won, and the city where the winning ticket was purchased. However, other personal information, such as your address and phone number, is typically kept confidential.

Is there an app for the Nebraska Lottery?

Nebraska Lottery does offer an official mobile app. You can use this app to check winning numbers, find nearby retailers, scan tickets to see if they are winners, and get information on current games and promotions. Please note that the availability and features of the app may change, so it’s always a good idea to consult the Nebraska Lottery’s official website or authorized sources for the most up-to-date information.

Nebraska Lottery - Guide to NE Lotto Games & Laws (2024)

FAQs

Can you buy lottery tickets with a credit card in Nebraska? ›

Retailers can decide which forms of payment they will accept for Lottery purchases. The Nebraska Lottery does not set restrictions on the forms of payment accepted for Lottery purchases, other than a retailer cannot charge Lottery purchases to a store credit account or layaway plan.

How long are Mega Millions tickets good for in Nebraska? ›

Winning lottery tickets in Nebraska expire 180 days after the drawing. In this case, the $200,000 prize money is set to expire on Friday, May 31.

What is 2 by 2 Nebraska Lottery? ›

Nebraska 2by2

Each play costs $1. You can pick up to 5 different sets of numbers on each play slip. You can purchase the same numbers for up to 28 consecutive drawings (4 weeks worth) when you use the multi-draw box on the play slip. Multi-draws can be purchased for up to 12 weeks.

What is the Nebraska Lottery Act? ›

The Nebraska County and City Lottery Act (Act) allows a county, city, or village to conduct a lottery for community betterment purposes.

How late can you buy lottery tickets in Nebraska? ›

You can purchase the same numbers for consecutive drawings when you use the multi-draw box on the play slip. Tickets can be purchased from 5:00 a.m. to 3:00 a.m. (Central Time) any day of the week except from 9:00 p.m. to 9:03 p.m. on drawing nights. Review your play slip carefully before giving it to the clerk.

Can you buy ne lottery tickets online? ›

Sales of California Lottery tickets by mail, online or via a mobile application are illegal. Anyone who buys their tickets through a digital reseller is ineligible to win. If I live out of state or in a different country, can I still buy and play California State Lottery games? Yes.

What is cash blast in the Nebraska lottery? ›

Final drawing: 4/4/24. Win $5,000 or $500 each week with the 2by2 Cash Blast promotion. How to Play: Starting February 14, 2024, every 2by2 purchase of $1 will generate a voucher with a seven-digit Prize Voucher number. Players submit the Prize Voucher number using their MVP Club membership at nelottery.com.

What is 2by2? ›

Players choose two numbers from 1 through 26 in each of two number fields (red and white). Only one match (in either field) is needed to win. The top prize of $22,000, originally $20,000 (which is fixed, rather than a jackpot), is won by matching all four numbers.

How much tax do you pay on lottery winnings in Nebraska? ›

By law, the Nebraska Lottery automatically checks for back taxes and child support on prizes of more than $500. Prizes above $5,000 have state and federal taxes automatically withheld, at 5 and 24 percent, respectively.

What does the IRS do when you win the lottery? ›

Before you see a dollar of lottery winnings, the IRS will take 25%. Up to an additional 13% could be withheld in state and local taxes, depending on where you live. Still, you'll probably owe more when taxes are due, since the top federal tax rate is 37%.

What to do if you win the lottery in Nebraska? ›

Prizes up to $500 can be claimed at any Nebraska Lottery retailer. Some retailers reserve the right to pay prizes only up to a certain level due to security concerns. Prizes of $501 to $19,999 must be claimed by mail or at a Regional Lottery Claim Center.

Can you use a credit card to play the lottery? ›

There are also six states that don't even sell lottery tickets because they don't have state lotteries and don't participate in multi-state lotteries: Alabama, Alaska, Hawaii, Mississippi, Nevada and Utah. That leaves the following 21 states that permit the use of credit cards to buy lottery tickets: Arizona. ...

Can I buy tickets with a credit card? ›

Purchasing tickets with a credit card is simple. If you're buying from a provider like Ticketmaster, Live Nation, or a third-party seller, simply add your card as your payment method at checkout.

Can you buy lottery tickets with a Visa gift card? ›

The Card may not be used for Internet lottery, betting, or gambling transactions or for any illegal transactions. The Card may not be used for recurring or installment payments, cash disbursem*nts (cash advances and ATM withdrawals), or the purchase of money orders.

How to play Mega Millions lottery? ›

Mega Millions® tickets cost $2.00 per play. Players may pick six numbers from two separate pools of numbers - five different numbers from 1 to 70 (the white balls) and one number from 1 to 25 (the gold Mega Ball) - or select Easy Pick/Quick Pick. You win the jackpot by matching all six winning numbers in a drawing.

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