New Jersey was the third state in the USA to begin lottery games. Players of New Jersey Lottery games must be 18 years or older to buy or redeem tickets, which can be purchased at more than 6,000 retailers throughout the state. Minors cannot buy tickets, but they can win prizes, which will be paid to the minor's guardian.

In the 2008 fiscal year 57% of lottery ticket sales was returned to players in the from of prizes, while 34% ($882 million) was contributed to the state, helping to fund education, the Department of Human Services, the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, the Division of Food and Nutrition, and more. In the first 40 years of the New Jersey Lottery over $17.2 billion has been contributed to help fund these important public programs.

Winners have 1 year after the date of the draw in which to make their prize claim. Any prize not claimed within the one year period shall be forfeited, the funds pass to the state for use in the public programs mentioned above.

New Jersey Lottery advise that as soon as possible after purchasing your ticket you should sign the back of the ticket, as without this anyone in possession of a winning ticket may file a claim.