California State Lottery Official Information 2025

California holds multiple U.S. lottery records

California has produced 4 of the top 10 largest U.S. lottery jackpots ever, including the top 3 largest. The state has had 15 Powerball jackpot winners and 35 Mega Millions jackpot winners (more than any other state). California's unique pari-mutuel system sometimes results in secondary prizes HIGHER than other states—the record is $3.9 million for matching 5 numbers in Mega Millions.

Unprecedented event: Two winning tickets at the same store

In December 2023, two $394 million Mega Millions jackpot tickets were sold at the same Chevron station in Encino—something California Lottery officials said had never happened before in the state's 40-year history. One ticket was claimed by Faramarz Lahijani for $197 million; the second ticket went unclaimed and is subject to ongoing litigation. The store received a record $1.975 million bonus, the highest ever for a single retailer in California history.

Over $1.1 billion in unclaimed prizes

In California's 40-year history, over $1.1 billion in lottery prizes has gone unclaimed. The largest unclaimed jackpot was $63 million from SuperLotto Plus in August 2015. In FY 2023-24 alone, $67.1 million went unclaimed—$15.3 million more than the previous year. All unclaimed prize money goes directly to California public education. Winners have 180 days to claim most prizes, or one year for Powerball and Mega Millions jackpots.

Billionaire winner rebuilding wildfire-devastated hometown

Edwin Castro, winner of the $2.04 billion Powerball jackpot, lost his $3.8 million Malibu home in the January 2025 California wildfires. In response, he spent $10 million purchasing 15 fire-scorched lots in his hometown of Altadena to help rebuild the community. Through his company Black Lion Properties LLC (run by his brother), Castro plans to restore half the homes using original architectural plans and build new homes for the other half that blend with the local aesthetic. He stated, "When I won, I promised myself I'd use the blessing to make a difference. Rebuilding Altadena isn't business—it's homecoming."

The pari-mutuel requirement makes California unique

A 1996 California Supreme Court ruling determined that fixed-prize lotteries create an illegal state interest in the outcome. As a result, ALL California lottery games must use pari-mutuel prizes that vary based on sales and number of winners. This is why California cannot offer Powerball's Power Play or Mega Millions' Megaplier options (though Mega Millions' built-in multiplier since April 2025 is allowed). The same ruling forced modifications to Keno (became Hot Spot) and Daily 3.

Where can I buy California Lottery tickets?

California Lottery tickets can be purchased only from the 23,000+ authorized retailers located throughout California. These include grocery stores (Ralphs, Pavilions), convenience stores (7-Eleven), gas stations, liquor stores, and mini markets. Online ticket sales are illegal in California. Tickets must be purchased in person at a California retailer. You can find nearby retailers using the California Lottery mobile app's retailer locator feature.

Can I buy California Lottery tickets online?

No. Online and app-based lottery ticket sales are illegal in California. All tickets must be purchased in person at authorized California retailers. Anyone purchasing tickets through digital resellers or third-party websites is ineligible to win. The California Lottery mobile app allows you to check tickets, view results, and enter 2nd Chance, but it cannot be used to purchase tickets. Only physical tickets purchased in California are valid.

Do I need to be a California resident to play?

No. You do not need to be a California resident or U.S. citizen to purchase tickets or claim prizes. However, you must physically purchase your ticket in person at an authorized California retailer. The ticket must be purchased within California state borders. Non-residents can buy and win, but the purchase must occur at a California retailer location.

How do I claim a California Lottery prize?

For prizes up to $599, claim at any authorized California retailer. For prizes $600-$1,000, claim at any California Lottery District Office (same-day check available until 4:30 PM) or by mail. For prizes over $1,000, claim at a District Office or mail to California State Lottery, 730 North 10th Street, Sacramento, CA 95811. Required documents: signed winning ticket, completed Winner Claim Form, and valid government-issued photo ID. Processing time for mailed claims is 4-6 weeks. Winners must claim within 180 days for draw games (one year for Powerball/Mega Millions jackpots) or 180 days after a Scratcher game's official end date.

Are California Lottery winnings taxable?

California does not tax lottery winnings—you keep 100% of your state prize. However, federal tax applies to prizes over $599. The lottery automatically withholds 25% federal tax on prizes over $5,000. The actual federal tax rate may be 37% for large jackpots, so additional tax may be owed when filing. California is one of only 8 U.S. states that doesn't tax lottery prizes, making it especially favorable for winners.

Can I remain anonymous if I win?

No. California law requires the disclosure of lottery winners' names, prize amounts, draw dates, and the retailer location where tickets were purchased as public record under the California Public Records Act. Complete anonymity is not possible when claiming a prize in California. However, other personal details like your address and phone number remain private. Some winners consult attorneys about claiming through trusts, but disclosure requirements still apply.

What is the payout ratio for California Lottery?

California law requires a minimum of 50% of total sales be paid as prizes. In FY 2023-24, California exceeded this requirement by paying out 65.0% of total sales ($6.03 billion) as prizes. Additionally, 23.3% went to education, 6.8% to retailer compensation, 3.2% to operating expenses, and 1.7% to game production costs. Combined, 95 cents of every dollar spent on lottery games returns to the community through prizes, education funding, and retailer compensation.

How does California Lottery compare to other state lotteries?

California had the highest lottery sales in FY 2023 at approximately $9.2 billion, alongside Florida. Despite having the largest state population (39+ million), California's per-capita lottery spending is lower than states like Massachusetts ($867 per capita) or New York. However, California has produced more billion-dollar jackpot winners than any other state and holds the world record for the largest lottery prize ever. The unique pari-mutuel system means California sometimes offers higher secondary prizes than other states.