With the popularity of iLottery games and Scratch Offs rising, we wanted to know what a Scratch Off is and how to play one online.
So, if you’re thinking of playing some West Virginia Lottery Scratch Offs, but are not sure where to start, read on as we tell you everything you need to know.
What is a Scratch Off?
Firstly, let’s find out what a Scratch Off is.
It’s the digital version of the traditional paper Scratch Off ticket. You can access these games online via the state’s iLottery website or mobile app.
Like the physical versions, Scratch Offs come in various themes, prices, and prizes. The key difference is that everything is done virtually, from buying the ticket to “scratching” it off to reveal whether you’ve created a matching combination or not.
Detailed steps to play a Scratch Off
- Create an account on the iLottery platform
Before playing, you must sign up for an account on the West Virginia iLottery platform.
When signing up, you’ll need to provide personal information such as your name, age, and address, to confirm your identity and ensure you meet the legal age requirement.
- Deposit funds:
After signing up, you’ll need to add funds to your account to buy scratch off tickets. You can typically use:
- Debit cards
- E-wallets (like PayPal)
- Bank transfers
- Browse and choose your Scratch Off game:
The iLottery platforms have a variety of scratch off games with different themes, prices, and prize potentials. You’ll see details such as:
- Price per ticket
- Top prizes available
- Odds of winning
Pick a game that fits your budget and your gameplay style. The theme might be based on sports, holidays, popular symbols, or cultural aspects.
- Purchase your digital ticket:
Once you select the game best suited for your gameplay style, you’ll need to buy your ticket. The cost will be deducted from your iLottery balance.
Some games let you choose how many tickets to buy at once, just like you can with paper scratch offs, but please remember to keep your budget in mind as you’re never guaranteed a win, so never purchase more than you can afford to lose.
- Virtually scratch the ticket:
After purchasing, it’s time to “scratch” the digital ticket. Here’s how it works:
- On your screen, a digital version of the ticket will appear.
- You’ll usually have to “Scratch Off” certain areas to reveal hidden symbols, numbers, or prize amounts. You do this by swiping your finger (on a mobile device) or clicking with your mouse (on a computer).
- Some platforms let you “scratch” the entire ticket at once with a button (like an “Auto Scratch” option).
- Check if you’ve won:
As you Scratch Off the ticket, you’ll see if you’ve met the game’s winning criteria. The rules for winning vary by game but typically include:
- Matching numbers or symbols: For example, you win a prize if you scratch three matching symbols (like three gold bars).
- Revealing specific prize amounts: Some games show dollar amounts under the scratchable areas. If you reveal three matching amounts, you win that prize.
- Bonus areas: Some tickets have additional spots (bonus boxes) that offer extra chances to win or multiply your winnings.
If you happen to Scratch Off a matching combination, the platform will notify you immediately. Small winnings are automatically added to your iLottery account balance.
- Claiming your prize:
Small prizes: Winnings under a certain amount are typically added directly to your iLottery account. You can withdraw this money or use it to play more games.
Large prizes: If you win a more significant amount (e.g., thousands of dollars or more), you may need to follow additional steps to claim the prize, such as:
- Filling out a claim form
- Providing identification for tax purposes
- Claiming the prize at a Lottery office
Now you know what a Scratch Off is, you’ll have a better understanding of how to play the next time you log onto the West Virginia Lottery website to try your chances.
