What is Lotto? – Everything to know about the rules of the game

Lotto is a popular lottery game in South Africa where players pick numbers in the hopes of matching them with the numbers drawn to win cash prizes.

This game is known for its large jackpots and is straightforward to play, making it accessible to many people.

How to Play Lotto

Playing Lotto is simple, and here’s a basic guide on how to participate:

1. Choose Your Numbers: Select six numbers from a pool of 1 to 52. You can either pick your own numbers or use the Quick Pick option, which randomly generates numbers for you​.
2. Buy a Ticket: You can purchase tickets from authorised retailers, online through the official lottery website, or via mobile apps. Each line of numbers costs R5. If you choose to add Lotto Plus 1 or Lotto Plus 2, it costs an additional R2.50 per line for each draw you enter.
3. Optional Add-Ons: You can enhance your chances of winning by adding Lotto Plus 1 and Lotto Plus 2 to your ticket. This means the same set of numbers you chose for Lotto will also be entered into additional draws with the potential for more prizes​.
4. Multiple Entries: Players can participate in multiple draws in advance. You can enter up to 10 draws ahead of time by selecting the Multi-Draw option. This feature is available both in-store and online.
5. Check Results: After buying your ticket, keep it safe and check the results after the draw. You can find the results online, through the lottery app, or by watching the live draw on TV. The goal is to match your selected numbers with those drawn to win prizes​.

Winning and Prizes

To win the Lotto jackpot, you must match all six main numbers.

There are also eight other prize divisions, allowing players to win smaller amounts by matching fewer numbers.

The odds of winning the jackpot are 1 in 20,358,520, but the overall odds of winning any prize are 1 in 38​.

Lotto draws take place every Wednesday and Saturday at 20:56. Ticket sales close at 20:30 on draw days, so make sure to purchase your tickets in time.

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.