A lottery is a game of chance in which the prizes, usually cash, are awarded to ticket holders whose numbers are drawn at random. The term is also used to refer to a state or public lottery. Some lotteries are charitable, and raise funds for specific purposes. Others are commercial, and aim to generate profits for the promoter. Some states even hire private advertising firms to boost lottery ticket sales.

The first known lotteries took place in the Low Countries in the 15th century to raise money for town fortifications and to help the poor. A record from the town of Ghent, Belgium, dated 9 May 1445, shows that one person won 1737 florins (worth about $2.04 billion in 2022). Today, lottery winners can choose to receive their prize in a lump sum or over several years via an annuity. The former option is typically the most popular, although it can make taxation more complicated as in most states, winnings are subject to income taxes.

Lottery is a popular form of gambling in the United States and contributes to billions in state revenues annually. Despite its popularity, it can have harmful effects on those who play it frequently. For example, some people play the lottery in the hope that they will win enough money to quit their jobs. A Gallup poll showed that about 40% of Americans who feel actively disengaged from their jobs say they would quit if they won the lottery.