Thai Lotto is one of the world’s most beloved lottery games. Boasting a massive jackpot prize and enjoyed by millions across the world, its winning numbers are drawn twice monthly; on 1st and 16th of every month. Tickets cost 80 baht each and can be bought from various retailers across Thailand; there are two ticket types available (TGL and TCL), differing in first prize payout amounts as well as tax withholding amounts due on winnings.
Thai Lotto, administered by the Government Lottery Office (GLO), is the sole legalized form of gambling in Thailand. Profits generated through it go toward funding public works projects and state affairs as well as offering protection for those struggling to earn income due to illness or disability.
Lottery prizes in Thailand are determined based on the number of correct digits appearing in each column and row on a ticket, and then added together and divided among several categories, including first prize and consolation prizes. Assuming you reach six million baht (the top prize), two million baht second prize, and one million baht for third place as prize money (usually the case!).
Thai Lotto provides not only a top prize of 3 million baht but also second-tier prizes of 3 million baht for matching five out of six digits in correct order, along with consolation prizes of 200,000, 100,000, 50,000 and 20,000 respectively for four, five three and two of six digits matching respectively.
If you’re lucky enough to win, all that’s required to collect your prize is taking your winning ticket(s), along with an ID card or passport photo and ID, to the GLO office in Bangkok and presenting these together to receive your check for the amount of your winnings. Prizes up to 20,000 baht can be claimed directly from the vendor who sold you your ticket; larger sums must be claimed from GLO Head Office located at 359 Nonthaburi Rd Tambon Tha Sai Muang District Bangkok for claims over this amount.
Thais are surprisingly avid gamblers despite the country’s strict gambling ban. Some claim their entire conversation revolves around two topics – food and gambling (huay).
Huay lottery schemes are illegal but nearly impossible to enforce. Comprised of dealers operating parallel lotteries that generate four or five times as much economic impact than official government lotteries, they use similar numbers while offering greater odds of success – and can even help you select your numbers for an additional fee!