How to Play Lotto

Overview

Illinois Lotto is the state’s flagship jackpot game: pick 6 numbers from 1–50 for $2 per play. Optional Extra Shot ($1) adds a number from 1–25 that can boost non-jackpot prizes. Draws are Monday, Thursday, and Saturday at 9:22 p.m. CT; sales close at 9:15 p.m. CT.

How to play — step by step

1. 1. Select 6 numbers

   Choose 6 numbers from 1 to 50, or mark Quick Pick and let the terminal choose.

2. 2. Select 1 bonus number

   Choose 1 bonus number from 1 to 25. This ball is drawn separately from the main numbers.

3. 3. Pick 6 from 1–50

   Mark six numbers or use Quick Pick. Each line costs $2.

4. 4. Add Extra Shot (optional)

   For $1 more, Extra Shot prints a random number from 1–25 that can increase non-jackpot prize amounts.

5. 5. Choose how many drawings

   Pay $2 per play (add-ons cost extra). Tell the retailer how many consecutive drawings you want, or mark Advance Play on the slip.

Draw schedule

Prize table & odds

$2 per play. Pick 6 from 1–50. Optional Extra Shot ($1) is 1–25 and can boost non-jackpot prizes. Confirm the live prize chart on illinoislottery.com.

Source: https://www.illinoislottery.com/dbg/how-to-play/lotto

Special features

Where to buy

Buy tickets at authorized Illinois Lottery retailers. Review official rules and claim instructions at https://www.illinoislottery.com. Illinois taxes lottery winnings at 4.95%. Draw times on this page are Eastern Time.

Illinois Lottery →

Responsible play tips

• Jackpots start in the millions and grow until hit — check the live estimate before you buy.
• Extra Shot does not change the jackpot match rules; it affects lower-tier prizes.
• Set a multi-draw limit; three draws a week adds up quickly.