Florida Lottery

Introduction

The Florida Lottery commenced operations on January 12, 1988, with the intent of generating revenue to support educational initiatives, particularly scholarships. Like many state lotteries, it has faced criticism as funds funneled from the general budget for lottery purposes resulted in eventual cuts to education funding, effectively reallocating that money to other state projects.

Florida presents a diverse selection of games, including those that rely on live ball draws, instant scratch-off tickets, and 'Fast Play' options. Fast Play games are akin to scratch-off tickets in terms of mechanics, but they are created on-the-spot, eliminating the need for any scratching.

Numerous draw games allow for an optional side wager. In my experience, these additional games often provide a better return than the standard games they accompany. Overall, I’ve observed that the best odds tend to come from scratch-off and Fast Play games instead of the draw games. Generally, the potential payout from scratch-offs rises in correlation with the amount wagered.

Like all lotteries, the odds here are quite unfavorable compared to other betting options at casinos. When considering the average return on investment, lottery games typically represent poor bets. Should you choose to participate, I advise opting for games with the highest odds and exercising caution in your gambling habits.

Florida Lotto

The Florida Lotto stands as the state's longest-running lottery game, which involves a draw of six balls, selected from numbers ranging from 1 to 53. A single ticket costs $2, and here are the essential rules.

1. Players are required to select six unique numbers between 1 and 53.
2. The Lottery shall do the same.
3. Matching 3 to 5 of the chosen numbers guarantees a fixed base prize, structured as follows:
   • Match 5 = $3,000
   • Match 4 = $50
   • Match 3 = $5
4. Each winning amount will be subject to a randomized multiplier that can vary from 2 to 10, with an average multiplier around 3.346. Below are the probabilities associated with each multiplier.
5. If a player matches all six drawn numbers, they will win a progressive jackpot, which can be paid out either as an annuity or reduced if they opt for an instant win. In cases where multiple winners emerge, the jackpot amount will be split accordingly.
6. Players who manage to match two numbers will receive a complimentary play.

Analysis

The subsequent table illustrates the various combinations of matching anywhere from 0 to 6 numbers, alongside their associated probabilities, fixed prizes for matching 3 to 5 numbers, and the respective contributions to the overall return before applying any multipliers. The last cell indicates that players can expect a return of approximately 7.14% on their stake for matching 3 to 5 numbers, prior to any multiplier effects.

The following table provides a rough estimation concerning weightings, probabilities, and their contributions to the average multiplier, derived from historical game data. The last cell indicates an average multiplier of approximately 3.35.

With the introduction of the multiplier, the return contribution from fixed prizes is calculated as the product of the average win and the multiplier, yielding a new return of 7.14% × 3.35 = 23.89%.

There are instances where a player matches two numbers to earn a free play and subsequently matches three to five numbers in that free game. If wins are considered this way, the total return for matching 3 to 5 numbers, factoring in the free game, rises to 27.04%.

Without considering the annuity aspect, the return on investment stands at 2.47% for every million dollars in the jackpot. This calculation takes into account the potential for winning a free play that could lead to a jackpot win.

For instance, as of May 13, 2021, the jackpot stood at $8.75 million, resulting in a return of 27.04% plus 8.75 × 2.47% = 48.61%. To break even, and ignoring the likelihood of sharing the jackpot, it would need to reach $29,594,481, not accounting for the time value of money or taxes involved in annuity payments.

For further details, you can visit the Florida Lottery's official webpage. Florida Lotto .

Double Play

Double Play is an optional $1 wager available post-playing the Florida Lotto. Successes in this side game are determined using the same numbers picked by the player and the associated multiplier from their Florida Lotto ticket. A separate ball draw occurs immediately following the Florida Lotto draw.

• Match 6 = $250,000
• Match 5 = $3,500
• Match 4 = $60
• Match 3 = $7
• Match 2 = Free ticket

The benefits of Double Play over the Florida Lotto include a lower ticket price, increased payouts for matching 3 to 5 numbers, and the application of a multiplier to the prize for matching all six numbers, although it lacks a progressive jackpot for a complete match.

The following table presents the probabilities and anticipated return contributions for every possible outcome in the Double Play game prior to applying any multipliers. The base value for the free ticket is set at $0.22, representing the average expected return if the player continues utilizing the free ticket until the wagering is finalized.

The lower right corner of the table indicates an expected win of $0.220885. The multiplier remains the same at 3.346154 as for the Florida Lotto. The overall return from this game is found by multiplying the average base win with the multiplier, leading to 0.220885 × 3.346154 = 0.739117, which is relatively favorable for a lottery game.

To attain a comparable return to that of the Double Play game, the Florida Lotto jackpot would need to reach $19,012,010.62, a figure which does not factor in deductions for the annuity, taxes, or the possibility of shared jackpots. Unless the jackpot is significantly above $19 million, the Double Play may generally provide a superior wager than the Florida Lotto, hence I would suggest placing that additional wager when participating in lottery events.

Fantasy 5

Fantasy 5 is a daily game available at $1, where players choose five numbers from a set of 1 to 36. The winning tier is determined by how many of the player’s selections match those drawn by the Lottery. Being a pari-mutuel game, victories are not fixed and winners share from a collective prize pool. Below are the game rules.

1. The cost of a ticket is $1.
2. There is one draw per day.
3. Participants must select five distinct numbers within the 1 to 36 range. There’s also a quick-pick option available for those who prefer a random selection.
4. The Lottery randomly selects five numbers, without replacement, from the numbers ranging from 1 to 36.
5. Ticket revenue is collected by the Lottery, excluding any 'free tickets' from prior drawings. This total is then allocated approximately as follows to distribute among winners:
   • Catch 5 — 24.7%
   • Catch 4 — 9.3%
   Catch 3 — 17.0%
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6. In the absence of any catch 5 winners, that segment of the prize pool is transferred to the catch 4 winners' pool.
7. The maximum payout for catching 4 numbers is set at $555. Should this cap be reached due to a roll down, any excess funds in the catch 4 pool that exceed the payout limit will be redirected to the catch 3 winners' pool.
8. Payouts for catch 4 and catch 3 are rounded to ensure they can be evenly divided by $0.50.
9. Players who match two numbers will earn a free ticket.

Analysis

The following analysis covers the probabilities of winning, average payouts, and the return contributions for all potential match scenarios. If a player matches 2 and receives a free ticket, I estimate that they will continue playing until the outcome of the bet is finalized. The average win associated with this free ticket is expected to be $0.51. It’s worth noting that the returns reported for matching 3 to 5 numbers differ from the aforementioned revenue shares due to some of the winnings stemming from free tickets, which I classify under the 2 matches in this table.

Alternatively, one might assess this game based on the resolved bets framework. If a player initially matches 2, they receive a free game, expected to result in further monetary wins or losses as long as free games are replayed. The next table delineates the odds correlated to final outcomes, demonstrating that contributions to returns align with the revenue allocations outlined in the game rules. Regardless of the method of calculation, the return to player stands at 51.0%.

For further insights, please check the official Florida Lottery page. Fantasy 5 .

EZ Match

EZ Match is an optional side wager available for $1 after placing a $1 bet on Fantasy 5. It might seem like a supplementary bet where players have some influence over their outcomes; however, it's not quite that straightforward.

The mechanics of this bet involve the game randomly selecting five numbers without replacement from the range of 1 to 36, and these are printed on the ticket directly. If any of the player’s selected numbers match the positions of these drawn numbers, the player wins a prize. An example illustrated on the Florida Lottery website demonstrates this.

Notice how a player matched three numbers in specific positions, leading to prizes of $25, $50, and $25, resulting in a total of $100. However, it's important to point out that the probability distribution table does not account for a $25 prize. Based on a potentially outdated document titled, the overall prize distribution aggregates all prize amounts accumulated across the five positions. Emergency Rule 53ER12-40 It appears the probability of a player winning anything is about 7 out of 33, or 21.21%. If they do win, that prize is determined similarly to a pull-tab or scratch-off game, pulling from a collection of potential outcomes, randomly selecting from them. Here's my best approximation of the prize distribution for various outcomes. This table also indicates the likelihood of winning and contributions to the overall return. The lower right cell suggests an average win of $3.35.

Jackpot Triple Play allows players to select 6 numbers from 1 to 46. With a $1 wager, players receive three tickets. For an additional $1, players can opt to engage in the Combo game, which will be evaluated separately. Below are the guidelines for Jackpot Triple Play.

Taking the product of the probability of winning and the average win, (7/33) × 3.346628, gives the player an expected return of 0.680159 = 68.0%.

Jackpot Triple Play

Participants are required to select six unique numbers from a range of 1 to 46 or may utilize the quick-pick option for a randomized selection.

1. The cost of a ticket is $1.
2. In addition to the player's chosen numbers, they will also receive two more quick-picks at no additional cost.
3. The numbers chosen for quick-picks will not affect the selections made for the main game and are independent of one another.
4. The subsequent pay table outlines the prizes for each game based on the number of matched selections.
5. As with most lottery annuities, the jackpot is distributed as an annuity over a span of 25 years, and players may elect to take a lump sum payment at a reduced rate if preferred.
   • Catch 6 — Jackpot
   • Catch 4 — $500
   Catch 3 — $25Catch 2 — $1
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6. Florida Lottery - A Guide on Gameplay, Odds & Game Details
7. Explore the Top Online Casinos Available in Your Region
8. Calculator for Lottery Jackpot Ticket Sales

The Florida Lottery commenced operations on January 12, 1988, with the intention of generating revenue to support education, particularly through scholarships. Similar to various other state lotteries, it has faced criticism; after its introduction, funding for education from the general budget appeared to decrease by amounts approximately equal to lottery revenues, with the general fund being redirected to other initiatives.

In Florida, players can enjoy a variety of games that include live ball draws, scratch-off tickets, and unique 'Fast Play' options. Fast Play games function mathematically like scratch-offs, but they are printed instantly and do not require any scratching.

Many drawing games come with an optional side bet, which some players find offers better value than the primary games. Generally speaking, scratch-off and Fast Play games provide better odds than the draw games. As is often the case, the return on investment for scratch-offs tends to increase with the size of the wager. Jackpot Triple Play .

Pick 2

Like all lotteries, Florida's odds can be quite unfavorable in comparison to many types of casino gambling. When evaluating the average returns, lottery games often result in poor betting opportunities. For those who choose to participate, I advise selecting games with the most favorable odds and playing in a very controlled manner.

Straight

The Florida Lotto is the longest-running lottery game in the state, requiring players to select six numbers from a range of 1 to 53. Each ticket costs $2. Below are the key regulations for this game.

Straight with Fireball

Participants must choose six unique numbers in the range of 1 to 53.

If a player successfully matches three to five numbers, they are eligible for a predetermined base prize as detailed below:

By matching all six numbers, a player can win a progressive jackpot, which is paid either as an annuity or can be reduced if the player opts for an instant win. In case of multiple winners, the jackpot will need to be shared.

Box

The next table outlines the different combinations for matching between 0 to 6 numbers, the odds associated with each outcome, the fixed prizes for matching 3 to 5 numbers, and how these winnings contribute to the overall return prior to applying any multipliers. The return figures have been halved to account for the relationship between return and bet amount. Essentially, a player can expect to recover about 7.14% of their bet amount by matching between 3 and 5 numbers, not factoring in the multiplier.

Box with Fireball

The subsequent table provides an estimation of the weighting, probabilities, and average contributions of the multiplier. These weights are established using data from past games, culminating in an average multiplier of 3.35 positioned in the lower right cell.

After applying the multiplier, the return from fixed winnings is calculated as the average win multiplied by the multiplier, which yields 7.14% × 3.35 = 23.89%.

Front/Back

At times, a player may match two numbers for a free game and later successfully match three to five numbers during that free game. When viewed from this perspective, the total win from matching 3 to 5 numbers, including results from a free game, would be 27.04%.

Front/Back with Fireball

Without factoring in the impact of the annuity, the player’s return on a jackpot of $1 million is 2.47%. This takes into account the potential to win a free game and subsequently winning the jackpot during that free game.

After applying the multiplier, the return from fixed winnings is calculated as the average win multiplied by the multiplier, which yields 7.14% × 3.35 = 23.89%.

Links

• Florida Pick 2 — How to play
• Fla. Admin. Code R. 53ER21-9 For instance, as of May 13, 2021, the jackpot stood at $8.75 million, leading to a return calculation of 27.04% + 8.75 × 2.47% = 48.61%. To break even—without considering the likelihood of sharing the jackpot—the jackpot would need to hit $29,594,481. This calculation does not take into account the time-value of money associated with choosing the annuity and potential taxes.

Cash for Life

For additional information, please visit the Florida Lottery's official website.

1. The cost of a ticket is $2.
2. Double Play is an optional bet available for $1 that can be placed after participating in the Florida Lotto. Wins are determined based on the same numbers the player chose, along with the multiplier from their Florida Lotto ticket. There will be a separate draw of balls immediately after the Florida Lotto.
3. The Double Play provides several advantages over the Florida Lotto, including a lower ticket cost, higher winnings for matching 3 to 5 numbers, and the application of the multiplier to prizes for matching 6. The only drawback is that there is no progressive jackpot for matching all six numbers.
4. The table below illustrates the probabilities and anticipated returns for all potential results of the Double Play prior to applying the multiplier. The base win for a free ticket is $0.22, which represents what players can expect to win if they continue playing the free ticket until the outcome is finalized.
5. The lower right cell of the previous table indicates an expected win of $0.220885. The multiplier value remains consistent at 3.346154 as in the Florida Lotto. Consequently, the overall return for this game is calculated by multiplying the average base win by the multiplier, resulting in 0.220885 × 3.346154 = 0.739117, which is relatively favorable for a lottery game.
   • Catch 5 and Cash Ball — $1,000 per day for life
   • For the return of the Florida Lottery to match that of the Double Play game, the jackpot would need to reach an amount of approximately $19,012,010.62. This figure does not account for potential reductions due to annuities, taxes, or the chance of shared jackpots. Unless the jackpot significantly exceeds $19 million, the Double Play represents a superior betting option compared to the Florida Lotto, making the additional wager a worthwhile consideration if you choose to participate in the lottery.
   • Catch 4 and Cash Ball — $2,500
   • Catch 4 without Cash Ball — $500
   • Catch 3 and Cash Ball — $100
   • Catch 3 without Cash Ball — $25
   • Catch 2 and Cash Ball — $10
   • Catch 2 without Cash Ball — $4
   • Catch 1 and Cash Ball — Free ticket
6. Fantasy 5 is a daily game priced at $1, where players select five numbers from a set of 1 to 36. Winning amounts are determined by how many numbers match the daily draw conducted by the Lottery. As a pari-mutuel game, prizes are not fixed, meaning winners share a portion of the prize pool. Below are the game rules.
7. Players must select five distinct numbers from 1 to 36. There is also an option for a quick-pick, where the game randomly selects the numbers.

The Lottery randomly selects five numbers from 1 to 36 without replacement.

The Lottery takes total revenue generated from ticket sales, excluding any 'free tickets' from previous draws, and divides it approximately as follows for prize payouts:

If there are no winners for catching all 5 numbers, then that portion of the prize pool rolls over to the pool for those who matched 4 numbers.

The maximum prize for matching 4 numbers is capped at $555. If this limit is reached due to rolling down, any excess funds in the catch 4 pool not awarded will be transferred to the catch 3 pool.

Winnings for matching 4 and 3 numbers are rounded to ensure they are divisible by $0.50. Cash for Life .

Pick 3

If the player matches two numbers, they will earn a free ticket.

Straight

The analysis below outlines the probabilities of winning, average winnings, and contributions to the overall return based on the number of matches. When a player catches 2 numbers and receives a free ticket, it is assumed they will continue utilizing the free ticket until the outcome is realized. The average return from such a free ticket is estimated at $0.51. It's crucial to note that the return figures for catching 3 to 5 numbers differ from the revenue shares mentioned earlier because some winnings here stem from free tickets, which I've categorized under matching 2 numbers.

Straight with Fireball

Another perspective on this game is to examine it by the resolution of the bets. If a player initially matches 2 numbers, they receive a free game; this will ultimately lead to either a monetary win or loss as long as they keep reusing the free tickets. The upcoming table details odds based on the final outcomes. Analyzing in this manner aligns the contributions to the return with the revenue distributions outlined in the rules above. Regardless of how you compute it, the player’s return remains at 51.0%.

For further details, please refer to the official page of the Florida Lottery.

In this setup, the game randomly selects five numbers, without replacement, from 1 to 36, and immediately prints them on the ticket. If any of these numbers aligns with the player’s choices by position, a random prize is awarded. Here’s an example as displayed on the Florida Lottery website.

It appears that a player indeed has a probability of 7 out of 33 (21.21%) to win any prize. If they do win, the prize is determined similarly to pull-tabs or scratch-off games, where a pool of outcomes is established, and one is chosen at random. Here’s an estimation of the total number of each prize in a batch, including their respective winning probabilities and contributions to the return. The bottom right cell indicates an average prize of $3.35.

Box

Players must select six distinct numbers from a range of 1 to 46, or opt for the quick-pick feature for random selections.

In addition to the ticket featuring the player's chosen numbers, they will be granted two more quick-picks at no extra charge.

The numbers generated in the quick-pick option are independent of the player's original selections and from each other.

Box with Fireball

The pay table presented below outlines potential payouts for each game based on the number of matches:

The jackpot is distributed as an annuity paid out over a duration of 25 years. As is customary with lottery annuities, the player also retains the choice to opt for a lump sum payout, though it will be a reduced amount.

Florida Lottery - A Guide to Playing, Odds & Game Details

Front/Back Pair

Find the Top Online Casinos Available in Your Region

Front Pair/Back Pair with Fireball

Calculator for Lottery Jackpot Ticket Sales

The Florida Lottery commenced its operations on January 12, 1988, with the aim of generating revenue for educational purposes, particularly for scholarships. Similar to various other state lotteries, there has been some backlash suggesting that once it launched, funding for education was actually decreased from the general fund by amounts comparable to what the Lottery brought in, leading to concerns that those funds were redirected to other projects.

Many of the draw games provide an optional side bet. Some players find these additional wagers to be more advantageous compared to the primary games they complement. Generally, I believe that the best odds can be found in the scratch-off tickets and Fast Play selections rather than in the draw games. Typically, the return to player percentage for scratch-offs increases with the amount wagered.

Links

• Florida Pick 3 — How to play

Pick 4

The Florida Lotto holds the title of the oldest lottery game in the state, featuring a draw of six balls selected from a pool of numbers ranging from 1 to 53. Each bet costs $2. Below are the key rules.

Straight

Players must choose six unique numbers between 1 and 53.

Straight with Fireball

Should a player match between 3 and 5 of the drawn numbers, they will receive a fixed base prize, outlined as follows:

A random multiplier will be applied to the fixed wins, ranging from 2 to 10, with the average multiplier sitting at approximately 3.346. Details about the probability of each multiplier are provided below.

If a player matches two numbers, they are rewarded with a complimentary game.

The following table provides an estimated breakdown of the weighting, probability, and contribution to the average for the multiplier, based on historical game data. The lower right cell records an average multiplier of 3.35.

Occasionally, a player might match two numbers to win a free game, and subsequently match three to five numbers in that free game. When considering the wins collectively, the total return from matching 3 to 5 numbers, inclusive of potential wins from a free game, stands at 27.04%.

For instance, as of May 13, 2021, if the jackpot registers at $8.75 million, the return to the player becomes 27.04% + (8.75 × 2.47%) = 48.61%. To merely break even—disregarding the usual scenario of jackpot sharing—the jackpot must reach $29,594,481. This calculation does not take into account the time-value of money related to taking the annuity and taxes.

Pick 4 Box with Fireball

The Double Play option is a $1 additional bet that can be placed after engaging with the Florida Lotto. Wins are determined from the same numbers selected by the player, along with the multiplier from their Florida Lotto ticket. A separate draw of balls occurs immediately following the Florida Lotto draw. The table below presents the base prizes.

The benefits of opting for Double Play instead of sticking with Florida Lotto are as follows: the ticket costs just $1, the payouts are higher for matching 3 to 5 numbers, and the multiplier applies to prizes for matching all six. The only downside is the absence of a progressive jackpot for those who match all six numbers.

The table below outlines the probability and contribution to the return for all potential outcomes in the Double Play before factoring in the multiplier. The base win for receiving a free ticket is estimated at $0.22, indicating the average expected win if the player continues using the free ticket until the outcome of the bet is determined.

The lower right cell of the above table indicates an average expected win of $0.220885. The multiplier of 3.346154 remains consistent with what is used for the Florida Lotto. The overall return for Double Play is calculated by multiplying the average base win by the multiplier, yielding 0.220885 × 3.346154 = 0.739117, which is quite favorable for a lottery game.

For the return from Florida Lottery to match that of the Double Play game, the jackpot would have to reach $19,012,010.62. This calculation does not factor in reductions due to annuities, taxes, or the likelihood of sharing the jackpot. Unless the jackpot significantly surpasses $19 million, Double Play represents a considerably more advantageous bet than the Florida Lotto; therefore, I would advise placing that additional wager if you're playing the Lottery.

Front/Middle/Back Pair

Fantasy 5 is a daily game costing $1, where players select five numbers from a range of 1 to 36. The player’s winnings depend on how many of their chosen numbers match the numbers drawn that day by the Lottery. This game operates on a pari-mutuel basis, meaning the prizes fluctuate and winners share a portion of the prize pool. Here are the game rules.

Each player must select five distinct numbers from 1 to 36. Alternatively, there is a quick-pick feature which randomly generates numbers for the player.

The Lottery will select five numbers at random without replacing any of them from the pool of 1 to 36.

The Florida Lottery commenced its operations on January 12, 1988, with the aim of generating revenue for educational purposes, particularly for scholarships. Similar to various other state lotteries, there has been some backlash suggesting that once it launched, funding for education was actually decreased from the general fund by amounts comparable to what the Lottery brought in, leading to concerns that those funds were redirected to other projects.

Many of the draw games provide an optional side bet. Some players find these additional wagers to be more advantageous compared to the primary games they complement. Generally, I believe that the best odds can be found in the scratch-off tickets and Fast Play selections rather than in the draw games. Typically, the return to player percentage for scratch-offs increases with the amount wagered.

Links

• Florida Pick 4 — How to play

Pick 5

The Lottery will take the total revenue generated from ticket sales, excluding any 'free tickets' from previous draws, and distribute it roughly in the following manner to pay the winners:

Straight

In the event that there are no winners for capturing 5 numbers, that segment of the prize pool will be redirected to the pool for the catch 4 winners.

Pick 5 Straight with Fireball

The maximum prize available for matching 4 numbers is capped at $555. If the prize pool reaches this limit due to a roll down, any excess funds in the catch 4 segment—due to the cap not being reached—will roll down into the pool for catch 3.

The winnings for catch 4 and catch 3 are rounded to ensure they are divisible by $0.50.

The analysis presented below illustrates the probabilities, average prizes, and return contributions for all potential match outcomes. If a player catches 2 numbers and receives a free ticket, I assume they will continue using that ticket until the outcome of their bet is determined. The average win from the free ticket is approximately $0.51. It’s important to note that the return figures associated with matching 3 to 5 are not identical to the revenue shares mentioned, as some winnings will come from free tickets. In the table below, such wins are categorized under matching 2.

For further details, you can check the Florida Lottery's official web page on the

This bet operates by having the game randomly pick five numbers, without replacement, from the pool of 1 to 36, and these numbers are printed directly on the ticket. If any of the player's selected numbers match those positions, they receive a random prize. Here’s a case study from the Florida Lottery website.

The actual mechanics suggest that the player has a 7 out of 33 (or 21.21%) chance of winning something. If a win occurs, the prize resembles a pull-tab or scratch-off game, where a pool of potential outcomes is randomly selected. My best estimate of the total number of prizes available in a draw is provided in the accompanying table, which also showcases the probability of each winning outcome and its contribution to the return. The lower right cell indicates an average win of $3.35.

Players must select six distinct numbers from 1 to 46 or opt for a quick-pick function that randomly selects numbers.

The numbers on these quick-picks are independent of the player’s initial selections as well as each other.

Pick-5 Box

Winnings from the jackpot are distributed as an annuity over a span of 25 years. As is typical with lottery annuities, players also have the choice to take a lump sum payout, although this will be at a reduced amount.

In the event that the jackpot surpasses $2 million without a winner, any amount exceeding that will shift down to the lesser prizes. The specific process for this redistribution isn't something I'm familiar with.

Players have the choice to place an additional $1 bet when opting for the Combo bet, which we will discuss in detail later on this page.

I've created a table analyzing the Jackpot Triple Play. The return column is calculated by multiplying the potential payout, the likelihood of winning, and a factor of three, since players effectively purchase three games for a $1 investment. The bottom right cell indicates that fixed winnings represent 19.54% of the total stake.

Excluding considerations like the time value of money related to annuities, tax implications, and jackpot sharing, the payout rate for every $1 million in the jackpot stands at 32.03%. The breakeven point, where player returns reach 100%, is pegged at $2,512,173. To provide some context, as of May 14, 2021, the jackpot was $950,000.

For additional details, please refer to the Florida Lottery informational section regarding the topic.

The Pick 2 game requires players to select two digits, each ranging from 0 to 9. The Lottery also selects numbers and a Fireball. Bets can be placed at $0.50 or $1.00. There are multiple betting types, each of which includes an option for Fireball. The Fireball acts as a backup chance, potentially replacing the first or second drawn number if it improves the player’s chances of winning. To include the Fireball option, the player must double their wager.

Pick 5 Box with Fireball

To secure a win with a Straight bet, players must have both numbers drawn in the precise order. Winning bets yield a payout of 50 to 1. The subsequent table provides the return expectations for the Straight bet in Pick 2, where the expected return is noted at 50%.

When placing a Straight bet, players can opt to include the Fireball by doubling their wager. This results in an additional betting layer. The Lottery's drawn Fireball can replace either the first or second number drawn, depending on whether it increases the chances of a win. The win potential is influenced by whether players choose a one-way (for instance, 5-5) or two-way (for instance, 3-7) bet structure.

The forthcoming return table demonstrates the possible outcomes of a one-way bet, such as selecting 5-5. The lower right cell indicates an anticipated return of 60%.

Pick 2 — Straight Bet with Fireball — One Way

The next return table illustrates the potential outcomes of a two-way bet, for example, selecting 5-7. The bottom cell shows an expected return of 60%.

Pick 2 — Straight Bet with Fireball — Two Way

For the Box bet to be successful, the player needs to choose two distinct digits and match them in either sequence during the draw. Wins are rewarded at a rate of 25 to 1. The next table outlines expected returns for the Pick 2 Box bet, with the bottom right cell indicating a return rate of 50%.

Pick 5 Links

• Florida Pick 5 — How to play

Scratch Offs

If a player opts for a Box bet, they can also elect to include the Fireball option by doubling the stake. This introduces an additional layer to the bet, where the Fireball can substitute the first or second number drawn if it aids the player in securing a win.

Fast Play

The subsequent return table showcases the various potential outcomes, with the bottom right cell indicating an expected return of 60%.

Lotteries

• California Lottery
• Texas Lottery
• Florida Lottery
• Easy Lotto

Games

• Powerball
• Mega Millions

Related Reading

• Lottery — General page.
• Buy Lotto Online in 2025
• Are Lottery Players Smart? The Front and Back bets consist of two separate selections; a win occurs when the player accurately forecasts the numbers for the first and second drawings by the Lottery, respectively. Winning bets pay 5 to 1. The table presented below outlines the expected returns for the Pick 2 Front and Back bets, revealing an expected return rate of 50%.
• COVID and the Lottery
• With the Box bet, players have the option to add the Fireball by doubling their wager, which results in an additional bet layer. The Lottery's drawn Fireball may take the place of any drawn number, thereby potentially helping the player achieve a win, with each victory paying 3 to 1.
• The Lottery (Still) Sucks!
• — Comprehensive rules regarding the Florida Pick 2

Calculators

• Powerball calculator Cash for Life is a game priced at $2, where players select five numbers between 1 and 60, along with a Cash Ball ranging from 1 to 4. The two highest prizes offer $1,000 daily or weekly for the winner's lifetime. Below are the complete rules for the game.
• Mega Millions calculator Players must select five unique digits from 1 to 60.
• Pick Six calculator Additionally, players should choose a Cash Ball, which can be any number from 1 to 4.
• SuperLotto Plus — California Lottery game.
• Calculator for Estimating Lottery Jackpot Ticket Sales Every day at 9:00 PM, the Lottery conducts a drawing, mirroring the players' selections in the same manner.

Written by: Michael Shackleford