New York Lotto How to Play & Prize Rules

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ธ USA โ€” New York

Updated: Apr 20, 2026

Game Overview
StateNew York, USA
OperatorNew York Lottery
Draw DaysWednesday & Saturday
Draw Time8:15 PM Eastern Time
Ticket Price$1 per play

New York Lotto is the flagship lottery game of New York State, with roots going back to 1967, making it one of America's oldest state lotteries. Players choose 6 numbers from 1 to 59. After the main draw, one bonus ball is drawn from the remaining numbers. There are 5 prize tiers โ€” matching 6 numbers wins the jackpot, and matching 5 numbers plus the bonus ball wins the second-tier prize. Draws are held every Wednesday and Saturday at 8:15 PM Eastern Time. The jackpot starts at $2 million and rolls over if not won.

Prize Tiers: Winning Conditions & Odds
TierWinning ConditionOdds
JackpotMatch all 6 main numbers1/45,057,474
2ndMatch 5 main + Bonus ball1/7,509,579
3rdMatch 5 main numbers1/144,415
4thMatch 4 main numbers1/2,180
5thMatch 3 main numbers1/96
Exclude Numbers & Combination Check
Main Numbers ยท 1โ€“59

Try the NY Lotto Simulator

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How to Buy

NY Lotto tickets cost $1 per play. You can choose your own numbers or use Quick Pick (random selection).

RetailAvailable at authorized lottery retailers throughout New York State including convenience stores, supermarkets, and newsstands. Must be 18 or older to purchase.
OnlineAvailable through the official New York Lottery website and mobile app. Must be 18+ and physically located in New York State at the time of purchase.
AdvanceMulti-draw tickets are available, allowing you to play the same numbers for up to 26 consecutive drawings in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens to unclaimed NY Lotto prizes?โ–พ
Prize winners have 1 year from the draw date to claim their prize. Unclaimed prizes are returned to the New York Lottery for use in future promotions and prizes.
Is the NY Lotto jackpot lump sum or annuity?โ–พ
Jackpot winners can choose between a lump-sum cash payment or an annuity paid over 26 years. The lump sum is typically around 60% of the advertised jackpot before taxes. Federal and New York State taxes apply to all large prizes.
Does NY Lotto roll over if no one wins?โ–พ
Yes. If no ticket matches all 6 main numbers, the jackpot rolls over and increases for the next draw. The jackpot starts at $2 million and continues to grow until won.
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