Traditionally, lotteries were used by governments to fund important government projects. They were also used to help the poor and prepare for wars. Nowadays, lotteries are played by a variety of people worldwide. While the odds of winning the jackpot are relatively small, the prizes can be life changing. And with the advent of online lotteries, it’s easier than ever to play.

Today, most US lotteries are run by state governments. However, some of the US’s major lotteries have begun to offer online ticket sales, and more are likely to follow. A few states have already authorized online ticket sales, while others are considering expanding the reach of their lotteries.

The most popular US lotteries are the Mega Millions and Powerball. Both lottery games offer odds of 1 in 302,575,350 and 1 in 292,201,338 respectively. Both offer an instant win option, as well as an additional pool of numbers that the player can choose from. In Powerball, the player can also select an option that will increase the lower tier winnings. Similarly, the player can choose to select a bonus number in some Lotto games.

The New Hampshire Lottery began in 1964. It includes Mega Millions, Powerball, and other draw games. Profits from the lottery go to schools, cities, and towns in the state. The lottery has contributed more than $5.5 billion to educational programs.

The Minnesota Lottery was the first state lottery to offer instant-win games online. In March 2016, the Michigan Lottery had online sales of more than $8 million a week. The lottery is also a member of the Multi-State Lottery Association, which allows players from multiple states to purchase tickets. This is the only lottery that has sold more than $2 million online in the state of Michigan.

While the majority of the lottery profits go to public education, schools, and colleges, the lottery also raises money for local businesses, open space conservation, and natural resources. The lottery has also been known to help fund problem gambling treatment.

Pennsylvania’s lottery does not offer MegaMillions online. The lottery offers other draw games such as Keno and virtual sports. The lottery has also authorized tribes to offer sports betting. However, the lottery does not offer the popular Powerball online.

The Michigan Lottery offers eight games in-house and three multi-state draw games. It is also a charter member of the Multi-State Lottery association. This is the first lottery to offer tickets online, and the state has set all-time sales records. A new customer can get a bonus of 10 free games when they sign up for the online service. They can also use the bonus code ONLINE50 to get 50% extra bonus credits.

The Oregon Lottery offers six games. Its profits go to state parks, natural resources, and problem gambling treatment. Profits from ticket sales also go to state parks, parks and wildlife habitats, and school budgets. The state’s lottery also features several draw games, including Lotto America.

New Jersey Lottery offers seven draw games. Proceeds from the lottery go to state and local governments, public employee pension systems, and colleges. The lottery also features a scratch card game and a multi-state game.