Illinois to become first state to allow online lottery sales

On March 25, Illinois will become the first state to sell individual lottery tickets online. It won't be the last.

Illinois Lottery Superintendent Michael Jones says online sales could attract 1 million new players when MegaMillion payouts exceed $100 million, increasing proceeds that go to public education. Only 9%-12% of Illinois adults play now, he says. Starting at 7 a.m. CT March 25 , visitors to illinoislottery DOT com will be asked to register and enter credit card and Social Security numbers, date of birth, name and address. Sophisticated software should ensure that only Illinois residents 18 and older play, Jones says. Purchases will be limited to $100 a day. At first, only MegaMillion and Lotto games will be offered.