Players of Oregon Lottery games must be 18 years or older to buy or redeem tickets, which can be purchased at more than 3,300 retailers throughout the state.
Every two years the Oregon Legislature and Governor decide where the profits of the lottery are to go. At the moment, 63% of profits go toward public education funding, the rest is shared amongst economic development, parks and natural resources, and problem gambling treatment programs.
Prizes of $600 and less can be redeemed at any Oregon Lottery retailer. Prizes more than $600 must be claimed at the lottery headquarters in Salem. Prizes over $600 can also be claimed by mail - sign the back of the ticket, fill out a claim form, and send it all to the lottery's Salem headquarters. If mailing your winning ticket be sure to keep a copy of the front and back of all documents you send, and if it's a larger cash prize, it's advisable to send your claim by certified or registered mail.
Winners have 1 year after the date of the draw in which to make their prize claim. All money from unclaimed prizes is directed to Oregon's public education, economic development and natural resource program.
Prizes are not exempt from Federal tax, and by law, for prizes more than $5,000 won by US citizens Oregon Lottery must withhold 25% for Federal Income taxes. Additionally, for prizes over $5,000, an 8% state tax is withheld. All prizes over $600 must be reported to Inland Revenue.