When did lotteries begin in Canada?
Lotteries began in 1969. Today there are five lottery corporations across the country. National games, such as Lotto 6/49 and LOTTO MAX, are run by the Interprovincial Lottery Corporation, a partnership of all provinces and territories.
When did Atlantic Lottery start?
We officially began operation on Sept. 3, 1976. The company is owned by the four Atlantic provinces.
What is Atlantic Lottery's role?
Our role is to manage gaming activities so they are fun, profitable and socially responsible. All profits are returned to the four provincial shareholders.
How is Atlantic Lottery (AL) governed?
Two voting representatives from each province oversees AL. Additional support and guidance is provided by an independent chair, which is a non-voting position.
C. Sean O'Connor, Chair
Nova Scotia
Patricia J. Mella, Vice Chair
Prince Edward Island
Laurie Skinner
Newfoundland & Labrador
Doug Clow, CA, Secretary
Prince Edward Island
Stephen Mont
Nova Scotia
Gordon Gillis
Nova Scotia
Kevin Breen
Newfoundland & Labrador
Wallace Floyd
New Brunswick
Jane Garbutt
New Brunswick
How is Atlantic Lottery (AL) viewed internationally?
We're recognized as one of the leaders in gaming technology, design, and financial and security controls. Our system for checking lottery tickets by computer, for example, is now the global standard in the industry.
Who gets the profits?
Profits are returned to the four provincial shareholders -- $369 million in 2011-2012.
Can anybody play?
No. You must be 19 years of age or older to purchase, play or redeem Atlantic Lottery products.
How many people play the lottery?
About 73% of adults in Atlantic Canada play at least once a year. Data also tells us that approximately 2 in 10 Atlantic Canadians engage in Cross Play (meaning they play more than one type of game - Draw, Scratch 'N Win, Video Lottery, Online / alc.ca, etc)
What about prizes?
Players took home more than $17 million in prizes in 1977/78. In 2011-2012, they walked away with $362 million!
What do people do with their winnings?
Lots of things. Here's what a recent survey found:
- 78% bank their money
- 60% pay bills
- 57% share it with family
- 31% buy appliances/furniture
- 27% renovate their homes
- 23% buy new vehicles
- 19% donate to charity
- 19% make mortgage payments
- 15% invest in stocks
- 13% invest in education for self/family
What happens if I win a major prize?
For all prize claiming details, please click here.
Do I have to do interviews with the media?
Everybody likes a winner, including the media. Our staff is trained to help you with media interviews and to make the process as quick and enjoyable as possible. We also send a news release to the media about each winner.
Are lottery winnings taxable?
No. Atlantic Lottery winnings are tax free. However, we recommend you consult a tax expert about legal and tax issues.
What happens to unclaimed prizes?
After one year, they go into an unclaimed prize fund and are returned to players in the form of prizes.
Does Atlantic Lottery do anything extra for the community?
We certainly do. We sponsor special events across the region, most recently festivals across Atlantic Canada and the Canada Games. We try to sponsor events that reach all of Atlantic Canada.
Where are the Atlantic Lottery offices located?
Head office is located in Moncton, N.B., at 922 Main Street. There are also offices at 7 Mellor Avenue, in Dartmouth, N.S., and at 30 Hallett Crescent in St. John's, Nfld. & Lab.
I don’t live in Atlantic Canada and I’ve received a letter/email saying I’ve won – is that true?
To be eligible for a lottery prize from Atlantic Lottery, you must have purchased a ticket from an authorized retailer in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island or Newfoundland & Labrador, or on our alc.ca website. Click here for more