Official lottery refers to a specific type of gambling activity that involves drawing numbers for the chance of winning a prize. The prize may be a fixed amount of cash or goods. Prizes are typically distributed by state governments, but private lotteries are also available. The most popular lottery games include Powerball and Mega Millions, which offer large jackpots and are available in many states. In the US, state-run lotteries are legally regulated by the government, while privately run lotteries are usually illegal and unregulated.

The first recorded lotteries were held in the Low Countries in the 15th century. They raised funds for a variety of projects, including town fortifications and help for the poor. The concept spread to the Americas, where lotteries were used to fund public and private ventures. For example, lottery proceeds helped to establish some of the first colleges in America, including Princeton and Columbia. Lotteries were also a main source of funding during the Revolutionary War and the War of Independence.

Lottery retailers are business owners who offer lottery products at their stores or other locations. Retailers earn sales commissions for each ticket sold, as well as bonus payments. Interested parties can learn more about becoming a retailer by visiting their state lottery website. In most cases, an application process is required and a lottery authority representative will install a ticket-dispensing terminal at the store.

In the United States, there are 48 state-run lotteries, and federally approved programs that operate nationally and across borders. The most popular national games are Powerball and Mega Millions, which each offer a maximum jackpot of $2 billion.