Powerball players aren’t the only people with questions. Those interested in becoming authorized Powerball retailers often want to know about these key things.
There are always nuggets of advice, tips, and best practices for those who play Powerball. But what about those who sell Powerball tickets? There are certain requirements for businesses and retailers to become authorized Powerball retailers. And there are steps to take and perks to enjoy, too. Here are a few Powerball retailer tidbits you may not know, along with a few questions that most frequently get asked by those who want to become authorized Powerball retailers.
How to go about becoming an authorized Powerball retailer
It’s a fairly simple process to register and become an authorized Powerball retailer, with the privilege to sell Powerball tickets. Each state will have some various steps outlined in its process. But it’s best to first reach out to your state’s official Lottery HQ for an application and additional information. You’ll provide details about your business entity and contact data.
Most states have these initial applications available online for completion and submission. You can usually handle any of the initial filing fees online, as well. The next step is to meet with a Lottery representative to ensure that your business location is in compliance with ADA-required access.
Once approved, Powerball officials will come to your store or business and install all the necessary equipment and ticket-dispensing terminals. And that’s it!
How much does it cost to become an authorized Powerball retailer?
Each participating state involved with securing your authorized permissions to sell Powerball tickets will likely have minor fees associated with registering. In Mississippi, for example, there’s an $80 applicant fee. In Illinois, authorized retailers pay a $25 renewal fee. Check with your presiding state and Lottery Office for an outline of administrative fees that may apply.
What you won’t have to pay for, though, is the equipment. Any Powerball-related machines, tickets, and software will be provided to the retailer. No charges or maintenance become the responsibility of the authorized Powerball retailer.
What other criteria must be met to become an authorized Powerball retailer?
If you or the business owner can submit to a credit check and a criminal background check, your state will need to verify you’re in good standing. And in some states, there are other good standing measures, like with a state’s Department of Revenue, that will need to be met. If your credit is good, you don’t have a criminal record, and you’re up-to-date on your tax filings, you should be eligible to become an authorized Powerball retailer.
There are incredible benefits to becoming an authorized Powerball retailer
There really isn’t too much that will be expected of you as an authorized retailer. You’ll need to have ample space on your counter for the equipment. And you’ll submit to some pre-qualifying vetting steps. But in the end, it’s not all that extensive of a process.
But the benefits are pretty incredible for those businesses that do decide to register and sell Powerball tickets. For starters, millions of Americans play Powerball. So, as an authorized retailer, you’ll have an added marketing asset to lure folks into your store or business. And then there’s the cut of the winnings. Authorized retailers responsible for selling those winning jackpots earn a percentage of the jackpot for themselves.
While many authorized retailers happen to be gas stations or grocery stores, there’s actually no prerequisite that your business has to be either of those. You can keep your traditional business hours and only sell Powerball tickets when you’re open. And in addition to the few other details outlined above, there’s not much else to it.
Now all you have to do is register your entity and then sell a winning Powerball jackpot, right?