How to play Lotto in South Africa

Lotto is a popular lottery game in South Africa that offers players the chance to win multimillion-rand jackpots. It involves selecting numbers and matching them to those drawn to win various cash prizes.

How to play Lotto: Here are the rules of the game

1. Choosing Numbers

To play Lotto, you need to choose six numbers from a pool of 1 to 52. You can select your own numbers or opt for a Quick Pick, where the numbers are randomly generated for you.

There is also an additional Bonus Ball, which is selected during the draw but does not need to be picked by the player.

2. Playing Lotto Plus

Players have the option to enter additional draws known as Lotto Plus 1 and Lotto Plus 2.

These require you to use the same set of numbers as your main Lotto entry and cost extra.

Lotto Plus 1 costs an additional R2.50, and if you also want to play Lotto Plus 2, it adds another R2.50, making the total cost R10 for all three draws.

3. Entry Methods

You can enter the Lotto by purchasing tickets from authorised retailers, through the National Lottery’s website, or via banking apps like FNB, Nedbank, and Standard Bank.

Each method requires selecting your numbers, choosing the number of boards to play, and deciding whether to include Lotto Plus options. Tickets must be bought before the cut-off time at 20:30 on draw days.

What are the odds of winning Lotto?

Winning the Lotto jackpot requires matching all six main numbers.

The odds of winning the jackpot are 1 in 20,358,520. There are eight prize divisions, and the overall odds of winning any prize are 1 in 38. Here are the odds for each prize division:

• Match 6: 1 in 20,358,520
• Match 5 + Bonus Ball: 1 in 3,393,087
• Match 5: 1 in 75,402
• Match 4 + Bonus Ball: 1 in 30,161
• Match 4: 1 in 1,371
• Match 3 + Bonus Ball: 1 in 1,028
• Match 3: 1 in 72
• Match 2 + Bonus Ball: 1 in 96

How to Collect Prizes

1. Small Prizes

If you win a small prize (usually below R2,000), you can claim it directly from the retailer where you purchased your ticket. If you play online, the prize will be automatically credited to your online account.

2. Larger Prizes

For larger prizes, you may need to visit a National Lottery office or an authorised high-tier claim centre. Ensure you have your winning ticket, valid ID, and proof of address to claim these prizes.

3. Jackpot Prizes

Jackpot prizes and other substantial winnings require more formal verification.

Winners are usually contacted directly by the National Lottery for the claim process, which might include filling out specific forms and undergoing identity verification.

Lotto draws take place twice a week, on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 20:56. Ensure you purchase your tickets before the cut-off time on draw days to participate in the next draw.

Responsible Gambling

Gambling can be a fun and exciting activity, but it’s important to approach it responsibly.

If you find yourself spending more time or money on gambling than you can afford, or if it’s affecting your relationships or daily life, it might be time to seek help. Here are some tips and resources to ensure responsible gambling:

Tips for Responsible Gambling

1. Set Limits: Decide on a budget and stick to it. Never gamble with money that you need for essential expenses.
2. Time Management: Set a time limit for your gambling activities and stick to it.
3. Stay Informed: Understand the odds and the rules of the games you play.
4. Balance: Ensure that gambling is just one of many leisure activities you engage in.
5. Seek Help: If gambling starts to become a problem, seek help early.

Useful South African Hotlines and Resources

If you or someone you know needs help with gambling addiction, there are several resources available in South Africa:

1. National Responsible Gambling Programme (NRGP):
   • Helpline: 0800 006 008
   • Website: www.responsiblegambling.org.za
   • The NRGP provides free, confidential counselling and support for anyone affected by problem gambling.
2. South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (SANCA):
   • Helpline: 011 892 3829
   • Website: www.sancanational.org.za
   • SANCA offers support for a variety of addictions, including gambling.
3. Lifeline South Africa:
   • Helpline: 0861 322 322
   • Website: www.lifelinesa.co.za
   • Lifeline provides 24-hour counselling and support services for individuals facing various crises, including gambling addiction.
4. Gamblers Anonymous South Africa:
   • Helpline: 072 211 7107
   • Website: www.gamblersanonymous.org.za
   • A fellowship of individuals who share their experiences to help themselves and others recover from problem gambling.