Frequently Asked Questions

What is ScratchCheck?

ScratchCheck is a free lottery data platform that analyzes and compares scratch-off (instant win) tickets across U.S. states, Canadian provinces, and selected international markets. We compile publicly available lottery data and organize it into easy-to-read rankings based on overall odds, prize availability, estimated expected value, and our proprietary ValueScore™. Our goal is to help users understand how different games compare using transparent, data-driven analysis. ScratchCheck does not sell lottery tickets and is not affiliated with any lottery commission.

What regions does ScratchCheck cover?

ScratchCheck currently covers the majority of lottery-operating U.S. states, the major Canadian provincial lotteries, and selected international markets including the UK. We are continuously expanding coverage. If your region isn't listed, check back, we add new markets regularly.

Is ScratchCheck affiliated with any lottery?

No. ScratchCheck is independently operated by 7H Ventures LLC and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or officially connected to any lottery organization worldwide. All lottery names and trademarks belong to their respective owners.

Is ScratchCheck free?

Yes. ScratchCheck is completely free to use and does not require an account to browse game data.

How does ScratchCheck make money?

ScratchCheck is supported through display advertising and affiliate partnerships. Some links on the Site are affiliate links, if you click through and make a qualifying purchase or action, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. We do not sell personal data. Advertiser relationships and affiliate partnerships have no influence on our data, game rankings, or ValueScore™ calculations. Our analysis is based solely on publicly available lottery data and our own methodology.

What is ValueScore™?

ValueScore™ is our proprietary 0–100 rating system designed to evaluate scratch-off games using multiple weighted components: Expected Value, Prize Quality, Win Frequency, and Inventory Health. Scores of 80+ are rated Excellent, 60–79 Strong, 40–59 Average, and below 40 Poor. ValueScore™ is a comparative tool, not a prediction engine. It does not guarantee outcomes and does not change the inherent odds of any lottery game.

How is Expected Value calculated?

Expected Value represents the estimated average return per dollar spent on a ticket, based on published prize tiers and remaining prize data where available. For example, if a game has an expected value of $0.72, that means that over a large number of tickets, the average return per $1 spent would be approximately $0.72. Expected Value does not predict individual ticket results.

How often is the data updated?

Data update frequency depends on the region. GREEN Tier regions publish official overall odds and remaining prize counts, these are typically updated daily, some states multiple times throughout the day. ORANGE Tier regions do not publish full official data, so ScratchCheck uses structured estimation methods based on prize tiers, print runs, and available disclosures, these are updated multiple times per week. Each game page includes a "Last Updated" date for transparency.

What do GREEN and ORANGE tiers mean?

🟢 GREEN Tier: The lottery publishes official overall odds and remaining prize data. This is the most complete and reliable data available. 🟠 ORANGE Tier: The lottery does not publish complete overall odds. ScratchCheck estimates certain metrics using publicly available prize structures and mathematical modeling. These are informed estimates, not official figures. Where data is estimated, it is clearly labeled on the game page.

Why do odds change over time?

As tickets are sold and prizes are claimed, the remaining prize pool changes. This can improve or worsen the odds of certain prize tiers. ScratchCheck updates data regularly to reflect these changes where official information is available.

Why are some games missing?

Occasionally, newly launched games may not yet appear in official lottery data feeds. Recently ended games may also be removed from official listings before all information is archived. ScratchCheck adds games as soon as sufficient public data becomes available.

Does ScratchCheck track real-time ticket sales?

No. ScratchCheck relies on publicly released data from lottery authorities. Updates reflect published information and may not represent real-time ticket sales.

Is lottery data the same across all states?

No. Each state or region publishes scratch-off data differently. Some publish full remaining prize counts, while others publish partial information. ScratchCheck clearly labels estimated values where applicable.

Does ScratchCheck guarantee I'll win?

No. ScratchCheck provides informational analysis only. All lottery games are games of chance. Even games with higher odds still carry a statistical expectation of loss over time. Better odds improve probability, not certainty. Always play responsibly and within your financial limits. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit ncpgambling.org.

Does ScratchCheck increase my odds?

No. ScratchCheck does not alter lottery outcomes. It provides structured analysis to help compare games, but all outcomes remain governed by the lottery operator. What ScratchCheck does is put more information in your hands so you can choose smarter and players can pick the ones with the best published odds and value instead of buying blind. It won't beat the lottery's built-in edge, but it helps you avoid the worst games and find the better ones.

Can I rely on ScratchCheck instead of official lottery websites?

Official lottery websites are the sole authoritative source for game rules, prize claims, and official results. ScratchCheck is a supplemental analytical tool. Before purchasing a ticket or making any decisions, always verify information with the official lottery website for your region.

I found incorrect data. How do I report it?

We take data accuracy seriously. If you spot an error: an incorrect odds figure, a missing game, or outdated prize information - please let us know at [email protected] with as much detail as possible, including the game name, state or region, and what appears to be incorrect. We review all reports and update data as quickly as possible.