Download California Scratchers Form

When filling out the California Scratchers form, there are important guidelines to follow to ensure your claim is processed smoothly. Here’s a list of things you should and shouldn’t do:

• Do print your legal name and address clearly on the back of the ticket.
• Do sign your name on the back of the original ticket.
• Do complete all sections of the Claimant Information and Ticket Information.
• Do staple your original ticket to the front of the claim form.
• Don’t forget to keep a copy of the claim form and the ticket for your records.
• Don’t submit your claim without the original signed ticket and all required information.

Following these steps is crucial. Missing information or errors can lead to delays or even rejection of your claim. Act promptly to ensure you receive your prize without unnecessary complications.

• Misconception 1: You can cash any winning ticket at any retailer.

In reality, you can only cash prizes of $599 or less at participating Lottery Retailers. For larger prizes, you must submit a claim form.

• Misconception 2: You don’t need to provide personal information.

Completing the claim form requires personal details, including your legal name, address, and Social Security Number for tax purposes.

• Misconception 3: All winnings are tax-free.

While California does not tax lottery winnings, federal taxes apply. U.S. citizens and resident aliens face a 24% withholding, while non-citizens have 30% withheld.

• Misconception 4: You can submit a claim without the original ticket.

The original ticket must be attached to the claim form. Without it, your claim cannot be processed.

• Misconception 5: There’s no deadline for claiming winnings.

Claims must be submitted within a specific period after the ticket is purchased. Check the California Lottery website for exact timelines.

• Misconception 6: You can sign the claim form digitally.

The form requires an ink signature. A digital signature will not be accepted.

• Misconception 7: You can claim prizes on behalf of someone else.

Only the ticket holder can claim the prize. If you are not the owner of the ticket, you cannot submit a claim.

• Misconception 8: All claim forms are processed immediately.

Processing a claim takes time. Once received and verified, it typically takes about 8 weeks for payment to be issued.

• Misconception 9: You don’t need to keep a copy of your claim form.

It’s crucial to keep a copy of both the claim form and the ticket for your records. This can help in case of any issues with your claim.

When filing a claim for a California Scratchers ticket, several other forms and documents may be necessary or helpful to ensure a smooth process. Understanding these documents can aid in successfully navigating the claims process.

• Claimant's Tax Information Form: This document is essential for providing the California Lottery with the claimant's tax identification details. It ensures that the correct tax withholdings are applied to any winnings, as the Lottery is obligated to report these amounts to the IRS.
• Multiple Ownership Claim Form: If a group of players shares a winning ticket, this form is required to outline the ownership percentages and the distribution of the prize. It is crucial for claims exceeding $1,000,000 and helps to clarify how the winnings will be divided among the group.
• W-9 Form: This IRS form is used to provide the Lottery with the claimant's taxpayer identification number. It is necessary for reporting purposes, especially for those who are U.S. citizens or resident aliens, ensuring compliance with federal tax laws.
• Identity Verification Documents: These may include a government-issued ID or other forms of identification that confirm the claimant's identity. Such documents are often required to validate the claim and protect against fraud.
• Privacy Notice Acknowledgment: This document informs the claimant about how their personal information will be used and protected. Acknowledging this notice is important for understanding the privacy policies of the California Lottery.

Being aware of these additional forms can streamline the claims process and help ensure that all necessary information is provided. This preparation can significantly reduce delays and complications when claiming lottery winnings.