SuperLotto Plus is California’s exciting lottery game that offers players multiple ways to win. With draws held twice weekly, it provides various prize tiers, including a jackpot that starts at $7 million. In this article, we’ll break down the different payout levels of SuperLotto Plus, explain how prizes are calculated, and provide insights to help you understand your chances of winning.
How to Play SuperLotto Plus
To participate in SuperLotto Plus, select five numbers from 1 to 47 and one Mega Number from 1 to 27. Alternatively, you can opt for a Quick Pick, where numbers are randomly generated for you. Each ticket costs $1, and you can play multiple lines or consecutive draws using the Advance Play option. Drawings occur every Wednesday and Saturday evening at 7:57 PM Pacific Time.
Prize Tiers and Odds
SuperLotto Plus offers nine distinct prize tiers. The odds of winning vary depending on the number of matches you achieve. The overall odds of winning any prize are 1 in 23. Here’s a breakdown of the prize tiers, the required matches, odds, and estimated prize amounts:
| Numbers Matched | Odds of Winning | Estimated Prize Amount |
| Match 5 + Mega Number | 1 in 41,416,353 | Jackpot (starts at $7 million) |
| Match 5 | 1 in 1,592,937 | Approximately $45,000 |
| Match 4 + Mega Number | 1 in 197,221 | Approximately $1,500 |
| Match 4 | 1 in 7,585 | Approximately $100 |
| Match 3 + Mega Number | 1 in 4,810 | Approximately $55 |
| Match 3 | 1 in 185 | Approximately $10 |
| Match 2 + Mega Number | 1 in 361 | Approximately $10 |
| Match 1 + Mega Number | 1 in 74 | $1 |
| Match Mega Number | 1 in 49 | $1 (Fixed Prize) |
Note: Prize amounts are subject to change based on ticket sales and the number of winners in each tier, as California uses a pari-mutuel system for prize distribution.
Jackpot Details
The SuperLotto Plus jackpot begins at $7 million and increases with each draw that doesn’t produce a jackpot winner. There’s no cap on the jackpot size; it continues to grow until someone matches all five numbers plus the Mega Number. Winners can choose between two payout options:
Annuity Option: The jackpot is paid out as 30 annual installments over 29 years.
Cash Lump Sum: A one-time payment that’s less than the advertised jackpot, reflecting the present cash value of the annuity.
Winners must decide on the payout option within 60 days of their claim being authorized.
Pari-Mutuel Prize Calculation
Most SuperLotto Plus prizes are calculated on a pari-mutuel basis. This means prize amounts depend on the number of tickets sold and the number of winners in each prize tier. As a result, prize amounts can vary from draw to draw. For example, if there are multiple winners in a prize tier, the prize amount is divided equally among them.
How to Claim Your Winnings
If you’re fortunate enough to win a prize, it’s important to claim it within the specified time frame. Players have 180 days from the draw date to claim their winnings.
Prizes $599 and Below: Visit a local lottery retailer to claim your prize.
Prizes $600 and Above: Complete a claim form and submit it, along with your signed ticket, to a Lottery District Office or by mail to the California Lottery headquarters.
Remember to sign the back of your ticket and keep a copy for your records.
Additional Information
Taxes: Prizes of $599 and above are subject to federal taxes. However, California does not tax lottery winnings.
Anonymity: California law requires that the names of lottery winners, along with the location where the ticket was purchased, be made public. However, other personal details are not disclosed without consent.
Conclusion
SuperLotto Plus offers a range of prize opportunities, from smaller amounts for matching a few numbers to a substantial jackpot that starts at $7 million. Understanding the prize tiers, odds, and payout options can enhance your playing experience. Always play responsibly and remember that lottery games are a form of entertainment.
