Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Please contact us if you have a question not listed here.

1. Should I sign my ticket before claiming my prize at a lottery agent?
2. Why should I sign my ticket?
3. What happens if I lose my winning lottery ticket?
4. What is the proper procedure for agents to follow when validating lottery tickets?

1. Should I sign my ticket before claiming my prize at a lottery agent?
   1. Until a winning Lottery Ticket is signed, it is considered a "bearer instrument" and anyone who possesses the ticket is the lawful owner. Once signed, the ticket is the property of the signer. The Lottery will not validate tickets that are not signed.
2. Why should I sign my ticket?
   1. VLC requires that you write or print your name on your lottery ticket before an agent can validate it.  This is for your own protection.  Signing the ticket is an easy way to identify it as yours.  And that makes it difficult for someone else to claim your prize if your ticket is a winner.  It also helps protect you if you were ever to lose it.  Agents cannot validate tickets that are not signed.
3. What happens if I lose my winning lottery ticket?
   1. The Vermont Lottery is not responsible for lost or stolen tickets and cannot pay a prize without a valid winning ticket. As a bearer instrument, a lottery ticket claim can be filed by anyone in possession of the ticket. That's why, if you win, it's important to protect yourself by signing your name and filling out all the information on the back of your winning ticket.  If you choose to mail your winning lottery ticket to Vermont Lottery Headquarters for payment, you should consider using a shipping method that tracks the package, especially for prizes of higher value.
4. What is the proper procedure for agents to follow when validating lottery tickets?
   1. All Vermont Lottery agents are required to pay prizes of up to $100, but may pay up to $499. When you present a ticket for validation, all agents must follow these simple steps:
      1. Check to make sure the ticket(s) are signed before validating;
      2. If ticket(s) are not signed, ask the claimant to sign them to include their full name and address on the back of the ticket;
      3. Verify the identity of the claimant by asking for a valid photo identification -- such as a drivers licenses or passport id;
      4. Verify the ticket has not been altered;
      5. Verify the ticket is a valid winning ticket;
      6. Pay the claimant;
      7. Ensure the Lottery terminal customer transaction display screen is visible to the customer at all times.