The thai lottery is the official state-sanctioned gambling activity in Thailand. It is regulated by the Government Lottery Office (GLO) and draws are held twice a month on the first and 16th of each month. Ticket sales are overseen by GLO and tickets can be purchased from retailers who carry the official lottery briefcases. Street vendors are also permitted to sell tickets as long as they register with the government.
Those who wish to play the lottery must submit their identification card for registration. Once registered, they are provided with a license to sell lottery tickets in the country. The tickets are then printed by the government and distributed to wholesalers who in turn sell them to local retail outlets. Those who wish to sell tickets must also be at least 20 years old.
The lottery’s prize pool is divided into several categories. The most important is the main jackpot. This is the amount that will be awarded to the winner who matches all six digits in the winning combination. The second prize is awarded to those who match five digits in the correct order. The third and fourth prizes are awarded to those who match four digits in the correct order. Finally, the fifth and sixth prizes are awarded to those who match two digits in the correct order.
In addition to the jackpot, there are a number of other smaller prizes that can be won. For example, every draw has a two-digit prize which carries a 2,000 baht prize. Similarly, there are four three-digit prizes that carry a 4,000 baht prize. These are a great way to win some money.
As a result of the popularity of the thai lottery, a number of illegal operators have entered the business. These unlicensed businesses operate parallel lotteries that offer more lucrative prizes. They have gained popularity as a result of the aching need of many Thais to gamble despite the nation’s strict gambling laws.
Aside from a small profit, lottery revenue is funnelled into the state’s coffers. The main portion of the revenue is prize money which accounts for 60% of the total income. The remaining percentages are used for street vendors, ticket wholesalers, social activities fund, and foundation, association, and organization discount.
Lottery winners must bring their winning ticket together with a valid ID or passport for foreign bettors to claim their prize. They must also pay a 0.5% stamp duty for winnings from the government lottery and 1% on winnings from the charitable lottery. In order to claim the prize, they must go to one of the three GLO offices in Bangkok. This is where they must sign the back of their ticket and present a copy of their identification card or passport. The winners will then receive a check from the GLO. This process can take up to two years. Those who have not claimed their prize after two years will forfeit the winnings. The first prize is usually several million baht.
