Players of West Virginia Lottery games must be 18 years or older to buy tickets, which can be purchased at retailers throughout the district. Minors cannot buy tickets, but they can win prizes, which will be paid to the minor's guardian.

Initially proceeds from the lottery were passed into the state's General Fund, but since 1994 the state legislature altered the arrangement, with profits instead helping to fund education, State Parks, senior citizens, health care and tourism. State law dictates that at least 45% of tickets sales must be returned to players in the for of prizes. At the time of writing, the actual figure returned as prizes is 50%.

Cash prizes of up to $600 can be claimed at any West Virginia Lottery retailer, or by mail. Prizes of $600 or more can be claimed at the Lottery Headquarters in Charleston, at the regional office in Weirton, or by mail. If claiming by mail, sign the back of your ticket, include a copy of your driver's license or a photo ID, an official document with your social security number, a return address, and phone number. 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/registered mail.

If you're lucky enough to win a jackpot prize, you have 60 days to decide whether to take the prize as a lump sum or annuity. Typically, the lump sum prize would be approximately half the amount of the announced jackpot, less taxes. If jackpot winners don't let West Virginia Lottery know of their decision within the 60 days, the prize will be paid as an annuity.

It is advisable as soon as possible after purchasing your ticket you should sign the back of the ticket, otherwise anyone in possession of a winning ticket may file a claim.

Winners have 180 days after the date of the draw in which to make their prize claim. Unclaimed prize money is returned to the lottery's prize pool.

Prizes are not exempt from Federal tax, and by law, for prizes more than $5,000 won by US citizens D.C. Lottery must withhold at least 25% for Federal Income taxes, and 6.5% for State Income Tax.