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Responsible play

Set a budget, keep track of what you spend and find free, confidential help when the lottery stops being fun.

Responsible gambling means keeping the lottery fun and keeping it small. The lottery is a game of chance. Nobody can make a win happen. Most tickets do not win. Treat a ticket as a small cost for fun, not as a way to earn money.

Set a budget before you play. Decide how much you will spend in a week or a month. Spend only money you can afford to lose. Never use money for rent, bills or food. Never borrow money to play. Keep a simple record of what you spend. A record shows the real total.

Know the warning signs. You may spend more than you planned. You may chase a loss with more tickets. You may hide your play from people close to you. You may feel stress, guilt or worry. If you see these signs, take a break and ask for help. Free, confidential help is available at 1-800-GAMBLER. You can call at any time. You must be of legal age to play. That is 18 or older in most states, and 19 or 21 in some. The guides here explain how to set limits and where to find support.

Responsible play guides

Questions about responsible play

How much should I spend on the lottery?

Spend only a small amount that you can afford to lose. Set a budget before you play and keep to it. Do not use money meant for bills, food or rent. Stop when the budget is gone.

What are signs of a gambling problem?

Warning signs include spending more than planned, chasing losses, hiding your play and feeling stress or guilt about it. If you see these signs, take a break and talk to someone you trust.

Where can I get help with gambling?

Call 1-800-GAMBLER. The help is free and confidential. You can also talk to a doctor or a trusted friend. Your state lottery's official site may list more support and self-exclusion options.

How old must I be to buy a lottery ticket?

You must be 18 or older in most states. A few states require 19 or 21. Check the rule on your state lottery's official site. It is against the rules to buy tickets for a person who is too young.

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