More than $7 billion in Hoosier Lottery funds given back to good causes

Since 1989, Hoosiers have been playing the lottery, winning big and helping to give back to good causes. In October, the Hoosier Lottery is celebrating the 35th anniversary of its first ticket sale, which occurred on Oct. 13, 1989.

Established through state law following a referendum in 1988, the Hoosier Lottery has continued to provide players with exciting opportunities to win cash and other prizes, all while keeping play positive. 

The Hoosier Lottery has been championing Hoosier dreams, awarding cash and other fun and exciting prizes by selling Scratch-offs and Draw and Fast Play games. Since 1989, players have won more than $18 billion on Hoosier Lottery products. These prizes range from $1 to a $540 million winning Mega Millions® ticket sold in 2016. In fact, the Hoosier Lottery has sold more winning Powerball® jackpot tickets than any other state in the nation. 

Lottery retailers also receive a commission on each ticket sold and cashed, along with the opportunity to receive additional bonus commissions if they sell a jackpot-winning ticket. Since the Hoosier Lottery began, retailers have earned more than $2 billion in commissions.

But where does the rest of the money go? After paying its players and retailers, proceeds from the Hoosier Lottery help support the Teachers' Retirement Fund and local police and firefighters' pensions. Funds also go to the Lottery Surplus Fund, used in part to lower excise taxes paid by Hoosier vehicle owners. Since 1989, the Hoosier Lottery has given back more than $7.4 billion to good causes, all to build a Stronger, Safer, Smarter Indiana.

The Hoosier Lottery has earned World Lottery Association Level 4 Certification through 2024 for achieving the highest level of responsible gaming. The Hoosier Lottery aims to promote responsible gaming by encouraging its players to keep play positive by setting a limit, knowing their game and keeping it fun. Players can access free tools and resources available on HoosierLottery.com/PositivePlay.

Throughout this upcoming year, the Hoosier Lottery will be celebrating with special promotions and other exciting opportunities to win.