Iowa Lottery

The Iowa Lottery provides a variety of games that bring entertainment and excitement to residents across the state. Since its founding, the lottery has funded state programs and delivered significant prizes to lucky Iowans. Learn more about Iowa’s rich lottery history, popular games, the best odds, and how to buy and claim winnings.

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Iowa Lottery Games & Results

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Iowa Lottery History

The Iowa Lottery was established in 1985 when voters approved a state lottery to support state causes, especially Iowa’s infrastructure and public services. The first lottery tickets were sold on August 22, 1985, and the lottery quickly became a popular pastime. Over the years, the Iowa Lottery has expanded its offerings from scratch tickets to a full lineup of draw games, including multi-state games like Powerball and Mega Millions. The lottery’s proceeds contribute to the Iowa Veterans Trust Fund, public education, natural resources, and public safety initiatives, benefiting all Iowans.


Most Popular Iowa Lottery Games


Powerball

Powerball is a national lottery game with massive jackpots that regularly reach hundreds of millions of dollars. Players choose five numbers plus a Powerball number, with draws held every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday. As one of the most popular games in Iowa, Powerball attracts players with its life-changing jackpots.

Lotto America

Lotto America is a multi-state game that offers jackpots starting at $2 million, giving Iowans a chance at sizable winnings without the massive odds of Powerball and Mega Millions. Players pick five numbers and one Star Ball, and drawings are held every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday.

Pick 3 and Pick 4

These simple, daily draw games offer multiple ways to win smaller but frequent prizes. Players can select how to play their numbers with options for straight, boxed, or mixed plays, and they can enter up to two draws daily. The flexibility of Pick 3 and Pick 4 makes them popular choices among Iowa players.

Mega Millions

Another multi-state game, Mega Millions offers enormous jackpots that often exceed $100 million. Players select five main numbers and one Mega Ball number, with drawings held every Tuesday and Friday. Iowa residents enjoy the excitement and potential rewards of playing in one of the biggest lottery games in the country.

Lucky for Life

Lucky for Life provides winners with the chance to receive $1,000 a day for life. Players select five main numbers and one Lucky Ball number, with drawings held every Monday and Thursday. This game is unique for its lifetime annuity prize, which appeals to players.

Scratch-Offs

Scratch-off games are a popular choice for Iowans who prefer instant results. With tickets ranging from $1 to $50, players can find scratch-off games in various themes and prize levels at retailers statewide. Scratch-offs offer a quick and easy way to win smaller cash prizes instantly.


Iowa Lottery Games With The Best Odds

In the Iowa Lottery lineup, Pick 3 and Pick 4 provide some of the best odds of winning, especially for smaller prizes. Among multi-state games, Lotto America provides favorable odds for those interested in bigger payouts without the extreme odds of Powerball or Mega Millions. Scratch-off tickets can also provide good odds for smaller prizes, particularly lower-cost tickets. Reviewing each game’s odds can help players select the best games based on their preferences and prize goals.

You can check the odds of winning Iowa games in the table below:

Game Odds Of Winning Jackpot Odds Of Winning Any Prize
Powerball 1 in 292,201,338 1 in 24.87
Mega Millions 1 in 302,575,350 1 in 24
Lucky for Life 1 in 30,821,472 1 in 7.8
Lotto America 1 in 25,989,600 1 in 9.63

Learn About Lottery Games

Before jumping into buying Iowa lottery tickets, it's important to understand how lottery games operate and your chances of winning. Choosing the right game involves considering the type of experience you want, from daily plays with smaller payouts to high-stakes games with national appeal. Knowing the odds, jackpots, and rules allows you to make informed choices when selecting your numbers.

Fortunately, Jackpot.com offers extensive information on different lottery games in Iowa and beyond. Getting familiar with the basics of lottery systems can significantly enhance your approach and help you build an effective playing strategy.

How does the Powerball work How does Mega Millions work

Resources For Responsible Gambling

Playing responsibly and within your budget is essential. If you or someone you know needs guidance or support, there are numerous resources available to help you stay in control and enjoy gaming safely. Both the Iowa Lottery and Jackpot.com offer access to tools and support services that encourage responsible play. Whether you’re looking for advice on managing your gaming habits or support for someone facing gambling challenges, these resources aim to create a safe and enjoyable experience for all players.


Frequently Asked Questions

We have compiled a list of FAQs related to online lottery tickets to make sure you have the best possible lottery experience. Still have questions? Get in touch with our Customer Experience Team.