The thai lotto is a popular lottery game in Thailand. Although the top prize is not as high as some other games, it is still an intriguing opportunity for anyone looking to try their hand at gambling in a country that takes its winning numbers very seriously. While the game could use some more regulation and higher top prizes, it is still an interesting option to consider.
The Thai government lottery is held twice a month. The first draw is on the 1st and the second on the 16th. Those who want to play must buy tickets from a local vendor. They should check their tickets on the day of the drawing. Those who match all six digits will win the jackpot prize of about $67,000.
A bonus prize of 22 million baht was also available for the first prize in past draws. This was removed by the military government after 1 August 2015. The first and third prizes are 100,000 baht. In addition, there are several other smaller prizes. A total of 165 numbers are drawn. The chairman randomly selects a colored ball to determine the order of the lesser prize winners. The prizes are yellow for 2nd prize, pink for 3rd prize, green for 4th prize and blue for 5th prize.
Each ticket is printed on special paper that has a watermark of a Wayupak (mythical bird). It also has two types of silk thread and has chemicals in it that show up under ultraviolet light. Besides this, the paper has been treated to prevent counterfeiting. The paper can be tested with drops of bleach, which should leave stains on it.
Those who win the jackpot must present their winning ticket to the GLO head office and provide their ID card or passport. They have two years to claim their prize. Prizes of less than 20,000 baht can be claimed at the nearest GLO retail venue. However, large sums must be claimed at the head office of GLO in Nonthaburi.
Gambling is illegal and frowned upon by Buddhists, yet Thailand is filled with betting dens. Many people even bet on soccer matches. In fact, a Bangkok bookie told Reuters that $2 billion dollars in bets change hands every year.
There are more than 3,000 licensed vendors who sell lottery tickets in Thailand. These vendors are required to pay a percentage of their profits to the state. They must also comply with other regulations including age and identification requirements. Moreover, they are not allowed to sell lottery tickets to minors.
Those who win the thai lottery must present their ticket to the GLO office and ID card or passport to claim their prize. They must also pay a 0.5% stamp duty on government lottery winnings and 1% on charitable lottery winnings. Winnings are paid in cash or a cheque. The winnings of foreigners are paid in Thai baht. In some cases, a tax deduction is also available for the winner.
