Lottery online allows players from all over the world to play major lotteries without having to visit a retailer. Licensed lottery sites act as couriers, purchasing tickets on your behalf from official retailers and uploading them to your account for verification. They also offer options such as syndicates and bundles to allow players to purchase a range of numbers for the same drawing at a lower cost.

The games available from lottery websites vary by state and may include draw games, instant games, keno, fast cash games, raffles, and daily games. The best lottery sites provide easy-to-use interfaces that make it a snap to select your lucky numbers and buy your tickets. They also support a variety of mobile devices, including iOS and Android.

Buying tickets through lottery websites is legal in dozens of states and the District of Columbia. However, the laws governing this activity are changing rapidly, and you should always research the lottery site to ensure it meets your expectations. Some lottery sites will even provide self-exclusion programs that can help gamblers control their spending and limit their access to their accounts. They may also link with charities such as Gam-Anon and Gamble-Away, offering assistance to individuals directly impacted by compulsive gambling. These programs can be an invaluable tool for gamblers with troubled relationships or addictions. In addition, most lottery sites will pay small winnings directly to your account, while larger prizes are usually mailed out to winners.