Online lottery is a great way for players to enjoy a wide range of games and prizes without having to leave the comfort of their own homes. However, it is important to know the differences between traditional and online lotteries before playing so that you can avoid scams and find the best site for your needs.

The first thing to keep in mind is that online lotteries aren’t official government-run; instead, they are private businesses that act as middlemen for official state and international lottery games. These websites charge the same prices as the actual tickets sold in brick-and-mortar shops and don’t charge extra for convenience. However, players should be aware that this isn’t a free service; the sites are making money by bombarding their site with ads or by taking a percentage of winnings.

Another difference is that players can only claim their prizes up to a certain minimum amount; larger wins will have to be claimed in person, though there are some online lotteries that will help them make arrangements for this. Regardless, it is essential to choose a legitimate online lottery site with a good payout record and regulated by gambling commissions. The website should also have SSL encryption and security logos.

When choosing an online lottery site, look for one that offers a variety of payment methods. Some offer eWallets or bitcoin, which can save you on transfer fees, while others offer debit and credit cards. Additionally, you’ll want to check the number of international lotteries and syndicates the site offers. Finally, be sure to choose a site that offers mobile apps for easy play on the go.

US lottery laws can vary widely from state to state, so it’s important to understand how your jurisdiction’s laws affect your ability to play. For example, some states require you to buy your tickets in-person while others allow you to purchase them through their official app. In addition, the way that online lottery games are regulated may also differ between states.

In the US, only six states currently offer online lottery games: Illinois, Georgia, Kentucky, Michigan, New Hampshire and Pennsylvania. However, more and more states are allowing residents to play their lotteries online. In fact, Illinois became the first state to legalize online lottery in 2012.