Massachusetts Pick 4 FAQs

Pick 4 in Massachusetts is most commonly known as ‘the Number Game’. Here you can see answers to all the most important questions for this popular lottery game.

You may be asking - when can I purchase tickets? How much can I win? How do I claim prizes? It's all there below…

What is MA Pick 4 (the Numbers Game)?
Pick 4 is a game where you pick four numbers, a play type and wager amount. It’s an innovative lottery which is played in multiple states. They all follow the same basic rules but have some interesting variations. In Massachusetts, for example, it is called ‘the Numbers Game’.
When do ticket sales close and draws take place?
Ticket sales for the Midday draw close at 2:00 PM and ticket sales for the Evening draw take place at 9:00 PM.
How many ways can you win MA Pick 4?
There are loads of different ways to win and match numbers in MA Pick 4. There are a total of different play types in this game. These will be explained in more detail on our Ways to Play page.
What are the odds of winning?
Each play type has different odds of winning. Remember, the lower the odds, the more you can win. Check our Odds and Prizes page for all likelihood of winning each play type.
How old do you have to be to play in Massachusetts?
You have to be at least 18 years old to play Pick 4 (and other lottery games) in Massachusetts.
Will my winnings be taxed?
In Massachusetts, lottery prizes are includible in Massachusetts gross income and are taxable at a rate of 5% plus surcharge.
How do I claim prizes?
Prizes under $601 can be claimed in person or in mail at any Massachusetts lottery retailer. Prizes of $601 to $103,000 can be claimed at a lottery office location. If the Prize is $50,000 or under then they can be claimed by mail. Prizes over $103,000 must be claimed at the Lottery Headquarters in Dorchester, MA.
How long do I have to claim a prize?
Lottery tickets in Massachusetts expire within one year of the draw date.