Learn about where Illinois Lottery revenue goes and how it benefits the state. See the allocation for education and infrastructure.
Revenue from the sale of Illinois Lottery tickets is used to pay prizes, operating costs, and make contributions to education funding and other good causes in Illinois.
In fiscal year 2023, Illinois Lottery proceeds were allocated as follows:
- Over $2.4 billion was paid in prizes to Illinois Lottery winners;
- $882 million was used to fund public education and good causes;
- $174 million went to Illinois Lottery retailers for commissions and selling bonuses, and
- $194 million was used for operating costs.
*In fiscal year 2023, a cash reconciliation was performed between the Common School Fund, Capital Projects Fund and State Lottery Fund in accordance with 20 ILCS 1605/9.2.
To see more information on how Illinois Lottery revenue is allocated, please visit Where the Money Goes.
What is the history of Illinois Lottery funding in Illinois?
- 1974 – 1985: Illinois Lottery proceeds went solely to the General Revenue Fund
- 1985 – 2006: Illinois Lottery proceeds went solely to the Common School Fund.
- 2006 – 2009: Illinois Lottery proceeds went to the Common School Fund and specialty causes as directed by statute.
- 2009 – 2022: Illinois Lottery proceeds went to the Common School Fund and specialty causes as directed by statute. Common School Fund transfer amounts were prescribed. Proceeds in excess of the prescribed amount went to the Capital Projects Fund.
- 2023 – Present: Illinois Lottery proceeds go to the Common School Fund and specialty causes as directed by statute, resulting in almost 99% of lottery proceeds being used to supplement educational funding.
To learn more about how education funding works in Illinois, please visit the Illinois State Board of Education website.
What does the Illinois Lottery’s contribution mean to educational funding?
Of the $9.7 billion in state funding appropriated in fiscal year 2023, $882 million – approximately 8% – came from the Illinois Lottery.
With your help, the Illinois Lottery was able to generate $882 million in proceeds for public education and good causes!
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