Lotto is a widely popular lottery game in South Africa, offering participants the chance to win substantial cash prizes.
The game involves selecting numbers and hoping they match those drawn in official Lotto draws.
FAQ About Lotto
1. How do I play Lotto?
To play Lotto, you need to select six numbers from 1 to 52.
You can do this manually or choose a Quick Pick for random numbers. Each entry costs R5.
You can also add Lotto Plus 1 and Lotto Plus 2 for an additional R2.50 each per line, providing more chances to win using the same numbers.
2. How do I purchase Lotto tickets?
You can buy Lotto tickets at authorised retailers, online through the official lottery website, or via mobile apps.
If purchasing in-store, you need to fill out a bet slip and pay at the cashier.
For online purchases, you need to create an account, select your numbers, and pay using your player account funds.
3. What is Lotto Plus?
Lotto Plus offers additional chances to win with the same numbers you selected for the main Lotto draw.
Lotto Plus 1 and Lotto Plus 2 are supplementary games that you can enter for an extra fee, increasing your chances of winning secondary prizes.
4. When do Lotto draws take place?
Lotto draws are held twice a week, on Wednesdays and Saturdays at approximately 20:56. Ticket sales close 30 minutes before the draw.
5. How can I check if I have won?
You can check the winning numbers on the official lottery website, through the lottery app, or by watching the live draw on TV.
Winning numbers are also published in various newspapers and online platforms shortly after the draw.
6. What are the odds of winning Lotto?
The odds of winning the Lotto jackpot (matching all six numbers) are 1 in 20,358,520.
However, there are eight prize divisions, and the overall odds of winning any prize are 1 in 38.
7. What prizes can I win in Lotto?
Lotto offers eight different prize divisions. The jackpot is won by matching all six numbers.
Other prizes can be won by matching fewer numbers, with or without the Bonus Ball.
The prizes for lower divisions (like matching two numbers plus the Bonus Ball) are fixed amounts, while higher divisions receive a percentage of the prize pool.
8. What should I do if I win?
If you win a Lotto prize, smaller amounts can be claimed at retail outlets, while larger prizes need to be claimed through the official lottery operator.
You will need to present your winning ticket and valid identification. For online purchases, winnings are usually credited directly to your player account.
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
- Set Limits: Decide on a budget and stick to it. Never gamble with money that you need for essential expenses.
- Time Management: Set a time limit for your gambling activities and stick to it.
- Stay Informed: Understand the odds and the rules of the games you play.
- Balance: Ensure that gambling is just one of many leisure activities you engage in.
- 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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
