Just about every country in the world has its own version of the lottery and in the USA alone there are dozens of different rules depending on whether you play a state lottery or the national lottery. This article will list the common rules that exist for most versions of the lottery. Most states impose a minimum age limit on players, ranging from 16 to 21.

The game begins when the player receives a lottery ticket or slip. In some instances, a board may be used. We'll imagine that the player is using a ticket in these instructions. The ticket will have rows or columns of boxes containing numbers from 1 through 49.

The player needs to choose six numbers between 1 and 49 and mark their choices on the ticket, usually by putting a cross through the number. In some versions of the game, multiple sets of numbers can be used at once. A common alternative to this routine is to have the numbers chosen at random by the computer. This saves the player time and is useful for those who suffer from indecision!

Players should make sure that all the other information on the ticket is filled in, including name and address and the type of game, or 'draw', being played. In some instances, players may be able to choose to play the same numbers for multiple weeks. The choices really do vary from game to game so players need to carefully read through all of the given information when making their decision.

Once the ticket has been completed, players need to hand it in to their retailer or put it through a terminal device themselves. A printout will be handed back containing the player's selections; the most important thing for the player now is remembering to check his or her numbers when the draw comes up. Every year millions of dollars go unclaimed in lottery games, so remember first and foremost to keep your ticket safe and claim any prize within six months or a year, depending on the regulations!

If three or more numbers in the draw match those on your ticket, you've won a prize. Three, four or five number matches offer small to substantial winnings; five numbers plus the bonus offer a reward much greater, whilst matching six numbers means you've won the jackpot. If more than one person matches the six numbers then the prize will be shared equally between the winners.