The
Texas Lottery is administered by the Texas Lottery
Commission. The Comptroller's Office was responsible
for the start-up of the lottery, this office
now has no connection with the games. Prizes
account for 53 percent of the overall money
spent on lottery tickets. Lotto, Cash 5, and
Pick 3 have prizes of 50 percent while the prizes
for instant scratch-off games vary by the type
of game. Retailers receive a 5 percent commission
for selling the ticket. The Texas Lottery Commission
uses 7 percent for administration of the lottery.
The administration money pays for printing tickets,
advertising, security, retailer bonuses and
the lottery operator, GTECH. The remaining 35
percent goes to the state.
The Texas Lottery Commission is entitled to
retain 12 percent for administration and retailers.
Any unused administration money is added to
the state's share.
Starting September 1, 1997 proceeds from the
state lottery after payment of prizes and administrative
expenses are placed in the foundation school
fund. This fund is used to finance public education
in Texas. Prior to this change, lottery dollars
were placed into the state's general fund, which
is appropriated by the state legislature for
a variety of government functions including
education.
Jackpot prizes must be claimed at Lottery Headquarters
in Austin. Jackpot winners are not official
until validated through the Lottery's security
system. Prizes up to $599 may be claimed at
any Lotto Texas retailer. Prizes of $600 or
more may be claimed at any of the 24 regional
lottery claim centers.  play
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