Alaska does not currently offer a state-sponsored lottery.
Alaska’s population distribution and relatively low incomes are often cited as reasons why state officials and legislators have not pursued a state-sponsored lottery over the years.
However, Lotto Alaska and Catch The King are statewide lottery raffles supporting non-profit organizations that operate under the state’s charitable gaming laws.
Lotto Alaska
Lotto Alaska has obtained credentials from the Alaska Department of Revenue for the proper licensing and seal of approval. The first drawing was held on January 29, 2017 and continues to the present day.
Lotto Alaska refers to itself as “a fun and potentially lucrative gaming experience to Alaska residents while also supporting local non-profit organizations and charities”.
Alaska residents who meet the geolocation and IP verification requirements can purchase tickets online. They are then emailed to the address provided. Tickets can also be purchased at approved retailers by the State of Alaska.
The breakdown of the ticket purchase is as follows:
20% into the weekly prize pot
30% into the Jackpot
50% donated to nonprofits and to help cover Lotto Alaska operation expenses
Tickets are 1 for $2, 10 for $10, 25 for $20, 75 for $50, or 200 for $100.
Lotto Alaska does a drawing on Sunday at 6 p.m. local time and the winner receives 20% of the prize pool, plus the opportunity to “Chase The Ace” and win additional prizes for picking one of 54 spots on a board of playing cards. The Ace of Spades is the Jackpot, which rolls over if nobody wins and is set to a minimum of $100,000.
Catch The King
Catch The King is a lottery raffle fundraiser that benefits charitable and nonprofit organizations in the state of Alaska. The concept is very similar to Chase The Ace and Lotto Alaska.
Tickets are 1 for $2, 12 for $10, 30 for $20, 100 for $50, and 250 for $100, with 20% of the weekly sales going to the person who has the winning number and the opportunity to “Catch The King” to win additional cash or prizes.
Alaska Lottery Frequently Asked Questions
Alaska is one of five states without a lottery. Alabama, Hawaii, Nevada, and Utah are the others.
Due to the population distribution of the state and residents’ economic standing, legislators in Alaska have never really pursued the creation of a lottery in the state.