Irish Lotto Explained

HISTORY
The first Irish lottery draw took place on Saturday 16 April 1988. It replaced the Irish Hospital Sweepstakes. It is called Lucky Numbers in Ireland.
It consisted of "1 from 36" numbers only (NO bonus number).

On Saturday 22 August 1992 the format changed to include "1 from 39" numbers
Also on Saturday 22 August 1992 the bonus number was first introduced.

On Saturday 24 September 1994 the format changed to include "1 from 42" numbers.
It became a 6/45 draw on 4 November 2006.

HOW TO PLAY IT - HOW IT WORKS
You don't have to live in Ireland to play.

Lottery Winnings are tax-free and are paid out in one lump sum within 48 hours.

The Irish National Lottery pays in excess of 50% of its funds in prize money. The balance is used to fund projects in Ireland in the areas of health, sport, recreation, arts, culture and national heritage, including the Irish language.

The jackpot is never lower than $1,500,000.00 and is frequently worth in excess of $5,000,000.00. It can rise to $12,000,000 and more! The draw takes place every Wednesday and Saturday night on national television (RTE).

The jackpot prize is won by matching the first six numbers drawn (1 to 45). A seventh number is also drawn and is called the 'bonus' number.

Prizes can also be won by matching five numbers, five numbers plus the bonus number, four numbers, four numbers plus the bonus number or three numbers plus the bonus number.

Although people tend to pick their own lucky numbers, a 'quick pick' option is available which instructs the Lotto computer to select the entry numbers.