Lottery games are a form of gambling which is legal in many US states. There are two types of lotteries: state-wide and multi-state. Both lottery games are played using randomly generated numbers. In each, players buy tickets, then enter drawings online or in person. The jackpot is awarded after the drawing is complete.

State-wide lottery games are held in 44 states. Hawaii and Puerto Rico do not have state-wide lotteries. However, these states do offer instant win scratch cards. Some states also have e-Instant games, which can be played from a smartphone or tablet.

One of the biggest multi-state lotteries in the United States is Powerball. Players pay $2 for a ticket and must select five numbers from a pool of 69. For a chance to win, all of the numbers must match. Ticket prizes range from $1 to $20.

Another major US lottery is Mega Millions. To play, a player must choose five numbers from a pool of 52. If all the numbers in the pool match the drawn numbers, a winner will receive the jackpot.

Online lotteries are growing rapidly in the United States. While there are currently six states that allow online lottery sales, several more are planning to launch them in the future.

Many top US lotteries have jackpots that can reach hundreds of millions of dollars. These are known as progressive lotteries. After each draw, the amount increases. Those who win a prize usually get a lump sum, but there are other options that give players a chance to win annuities.