Lottery News

Illinois Lottery has a piece of good news for its players! The lottery has now opened four out of five claim centers, making it easier for players to claim the winnings in person.

As of now the Springfield (Lottery Headquarters), Des Plaines, Fairview Heights and Rockford claim centers are now open. The claiming center in The James R. Thompson Center (JRTC) in Chicago will remain closed until further date announced by the lottery. The claim centers will function on weekdays from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.

All the lottery claim centers will remain closed on July 3 in lieu of U.S. Independence Day.

The lotteries have released new claiming procedures that adhere to the state mandates and social distancing norms since there will be a greater influx of people claiming their winnings.

When the player arrives at a claim center they will partake in a "virtual lobby" system that will reserve their place in the queue using a cell phone. The “virtual lobby” system allows the players to reserve a virtual spot in line while waiting in their cars to limit the number of people in the building and contact. The instructions to sign in for the system will be provided on arrival and a text message will let them know their turn to enter the building.

The Illinois Lottery has issued a set of guidelines to follow while claiming the winnings:

• Wear a mask at all times in the claim center.
• Bring a proof of your photo ID and a copy of your social security number.
• Strictly follow social distancing rules.
• Your phone should be charged to check-in the virtual lobby and get all further notifications.
• Step in the Claim Center alone, get accompanied only if necessary.
• Don’t visit the claim center, if you have submitted the claim through the mail.

Check out the official website of Illinois Lottery, to get instructions on how to claim your lottery prizes.