Unlike sports betting, online lottery has been legal in the US since 2011. However, only six states (Illinois, New Jersey, Michigan, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Pennsylvania) have legalized online lottery, and the others are either in the process of doing so, or considering it.

To play an online lottery, you’ll need to purchase lottery tickets. Unlike in traditional lotteries, which are government-run, online lotteries are private businesses.

Depending on the lottery game, each ticket costs between $5 and $20, and there are a number of ways to buy tickets. Most online lotteries accept credit card payments, including MasterCard and Visa. However, some sites add an extra fee.

If you’re interested in playing an online lottery, the first step is to create an account. You’ll then need to register your contact information. You’ll also be asked for a password. After that, you’ll be able to choose the lottery game you want to play. You can play national games, or international games.

Once you’ve made a choice, you’ll be able to view your ticket, see if you’ve won, and receive a notification of your winnings via email or SMS. The best lottery sites allow you to compare current jackpots, play with real money, and buy tickets online. You can also play Instant Games, which are casino-like games you can play on your smartphone or desktop.

To make a winning wager, you’ll need to find a site that has a good payout record. You’ll also need to read the terms and conditions of the site. It’s also a good idea to check out the privacy policies.