Last updated October 5, 2026
Lotteries are entertainment, not a way to make money. Most people who play never win a large prize, and that's fine as long as you only spend what you'd spend on any other night out.
Tips for playing responsibly
- Set a budget for lottery tickets, and stick to it.
- Never spend money you need for rent, bills or groceries.
- Don't chase losses by buying more tickets to win back what you've spent.
- Don't borrow money to play.
- Remember that every draw is independent. No number is ever "due."
Warning signs
It may be time to get help if you're spending more than you planned, hiding how much you play, feeling anxious or irritable when you can't play, or if gambling is causing problems with money, work or family.
Free, confidential help
Every province and territory has a free, confidential help line. In an emergency, call 911.
| Province or territory | Help line | Phone | Minimum age to play |
|---|---|---|---|
| British Columbia | Gambling Support BC | 1-888-795-6111 | 19 |
| Alberta | 24-Hour Addiction Helpline | 1-866-332-2322 | 18 |
| Saskatchewan | Problem Gambling Help Line | 1-800-306-6789 | 18 |
| Manitoba | Problem Gambling Helpline | 1-800-463-1554 | 18 |
| Ontario | ConnexOntario | 1-866-531-2600 | 18 |
| Quebec | Jeu : aide et référence | 1-800-461-0140 | 18 |
| New Brunswick | Gambling Information Line | 1-800-461-1234 | 19 |
| Nova Scotia | Problem Gambling Help Line | 1-888-347-8888 | 19 |
| Prince Edward Island | PEI Gambling Support Line | 1-855-255-4255 | 19 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | Gambling Help Line (HealthLine) | 811 | 19 |
| Yukon | CMHA Yukon Reach Out Support Line | 1-844-533-3030 | 18 |
| Northwest Territories | NWT 811 | 1-844-259-1793 | 18 |
| Nunavut | Kamatsiaqtut Help Line | 1-800-265-3333 | 18 |
Your official provincial lottery also has tools to help, like spending limits and self-exclusion for online play.