HT Games
Texas Lottery Validation Requirements
When a winning ticket is turned in to the state of Texas, the lottery agent must validate the ticket before paying it. The ticket is valid if it does not appear on any stolen ticket list; the ticket is not counterfeited or forged; the ticket is not mutilated, altered or tampered with; the ticket must have been sold in the standard manner; and the ticket must pass all the security tests.
Mutilated Ticket
The Texas Lottery Commission may pay a mutilated ticket if it can be verified as a winning ticket in one or more ways. For example, if a piece of the ticket is torn and some of the winning numbers can't be read but the validation number can be seen, the ticket may be paid. However, if the Texas Lottery Commission cannot verify the ticket, it may reimburse the ticket owner for the original cost of the ticket but not pay the prize.
Low-Tier and Mid-Tier Prizes
Retailers may pay low-tier and mid-tier prizes from their business location. A low-tier or mid-tier prize is one that is less than $600 in Texas. The low-tier and mid-tier prizes may pay the prizes in cash, cashier's check, certified check or money order. The prize may also be paid with a business check if that is acceptable to the winner.
High-Tier Prizes
High-tier prizes of $600 or more are to be paid by the Texas Lottery Commission. The prizes may be paid at claim centers throughout the state. The winner must present photo identification and complete the claim information on the back of the ticket. All prizes are subject to federal and state income tax.