Anonymous wrote:It doesn't really matter, though, does it? It's not like we can confirm or debunk either way. This will be helpful for someone!

Hence the reference to "good advice."

Anonymous wrote:It depends on the state. But generally you can redeem smaller winnings at places that sell lottery tickets. For bigger winnings -- half a mill definitely qualifies! -- you have to take the ticket to lottery headquarters or to a lottery service center. There's a number on the ticket that you can call for further info, or you can Google up what you need to know.

The service centers (for big winnings) in northern VA are in Woodbridge and Fairfax. Most 7-11's and other places allow you to check your ticket through a scanner, in case you didn't check your numbers online or not sure the scratcher is a winning ticket.

https://valottery.com/faq/ (that link answers a lot of questions)

Congrats!

It depends on the state. But generally you can redeem smaller winnings at places that sell lottery tickets. For bigger winnings -- half a mill definitely qualifies! -- you have to take the ticket to lottery headquarters or to a lottery service center. There's a number on the ticket that you can call for further info, or you can Google up what you need to know.

I'm wondering - what is the procedure when you win money from a scratch ticket? Do you call a number, who do you give the card to? Do you have to hold onto the card for a few days before you can travel to wherever you hand it in (and hope you don't lose it!)? Same with lottery tickets? I'm from outside the U.S and we don't have scratch tickets/lotteries so maybe it is common knowledge to others. Just wondering how it works.