Lottery prizes attract the general public because of the guise of easy big money for one low payment. While it seldom works that way for the public, lotteries do work for the retailers who sell them by adding to the bottom line of the revenue.

Merchants need to know winning numbers and jackpot prizes so they can keep their customers informed. Keep informed about your responsibilities in prize payout. Look at the following to make money with lottery prizes:

1. Find lottery prizes list for every state so your customers can be knowledgeable.

2. Pay out small lottery prizes up to a given dollar amount.

3. Direct your customers to the big lottery prizes payouts.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Tell your customers how to find if lottery prizes were disbursed

One frequent question that haunts store owners on lottery day is the phone call or walk-in customer asking for the lottery numbers. Keep abreast of all of the lottery activity to provide your customers with the prize information they desire.

I recommend: World Casino Directory provides links to every state with the information about the lottery outcomes for that day. You can get the numbers and prize amounts for all lotteries small and large. Lottery USA provides links to all state lotteries. They provide direct links to the power ball lottery, jackpots by state, jackpots by size, mega millions and other favorites.

Hand out lottery prizes for small winnings

Ask your state lottery board what prizes you pay and up to what amount. Each state will be a bit different, but generally, the merchants pay small prizes under $100. For larger prizes, the customer can send their ticket to the state lottery board for payment.

I recommend: New York Lottery provides information on how people who win their lottery can collect the prize. Retailers pay lottery tickets up to $600. Other states will have similar provisions but check your own state for its requirements. Lottery 101 provides links to all 50 states. Click on your state then click on "retailer." Find prize information or call or email the state for your information.

Provide big lottery prizes information and how your customers get their payout

When your customer wins, you win also, since there is a bonus to the merchant for selling the winning ticket. The state doles out big lottery prizes in payments extending over 20 years. Many companies offer lump sum payment from structured settlements, like lottery winnings, so inform your customer that this service exists.

I recommend: Lottery Source buys lottery payments for a fee. They offer free quotes, quick turnaround time and a toll free phone number. Prosperity Partners buys lottery notes or converts a lump sum lottery winning to an annuity according to the client's needs. They offer a free quote for handling the transaction.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Lottery prizes attract many people with their allure of getting rich quick. Remember to play responsibly and, as a lottery prizes provider, advise your customers to do the same.